Passenger Jobs for Entry Level Drivers
CDL P endorsement + 6 months - 1 year experience. Pay boost: +$2,000 - $8,000/year.
Passenger for Entry Level Drivers
The Passenger endorsement is required to operate any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This covers transit buses, charter coaches, tour buses, church buses, and large shuttle vehicles. It requires both a written knowledge test and a skills test performed in a passenger vehicle.
You have completed your initial training period and have been driving solo for several months. You are building confidence in your skills and establishing your safety record. At this stage, more carriers are willing to hire you and pay rates start improving noticeably.
Requirements
- • Valid CDL (typically Class B, sometimes Class A or C)
- • Pass the Passenger written knowledge test (20 questions, 80% to pass)
- • Pass the Passenger skills test in a representative vehicle
- • Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered provider if first-time applicant
- • Many employers require additional background check and drug testing beyond DOT minimums
Jobs with P Endorsement
FAQ
Can entry level drivers get the Passenger endorsement?
Yes, entry level drivers can add the P endorsement to their CDL. It requires passing an additional written test. However, most carriers prefer at least 6-12 months of experience before assigning passenger loads.
How much more do passenger drivers with 6 months - 1 year experience earn?
The P endorsement adds +$2,000 - $8,000/year to your base pay. Combined with 6 months - 1 year of driving experience, you can expect to earn at the higher end of that range.
Is the P endorsement worth it for entry level drivers?
Getting the endorsement early is a smart career move — it opens doors even if you don't haul passenger immediately. The investment is under $200 and the ROI is significant.