Special Licenses

School Bus Driver

School bus drivers need to have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) along with class P, V, S, and F endorsements. In some situations, such as when transporting children to and from after-school events, a class A endorsement may also be required.

School bus drivers also face other requirements, such as having to deal with background checks and periodic drug testing.

City Bus Driver

To drive a city bus, you must have a CDL in addition to class P, S, and F endorsements.

Taxi Driver

To drive a taxi, you must have the basic operator's license along with class S and F endorsements.

Chauffeur or Limo Driver

Those interested in this line of work need to have the standard operator's license in addition to class S and F endorsements.

Shuttle Bus Driver

Most shuttle bus drivers will simply need to have an operator's license in addition to a class S and F endorsement.

Whether you'll need a CDL to operate your shuttle bus, or what type of endorsement is required, depends on the weight of the vehicle, as well as the number and type of passengers being transported. It's best to check with your prospective employer for the licensing requirements of the job.

Additional Special Licensing Information

The Department of Motor Vehicles provides an excellent guide that defines many sorts of passenger transportation vehicles, the types of endorsements needed to drive them, and the types of endorsements available.

The guide also walks you through the endorsement application process, and provides eligibility information.

To apply, submit completed Application to Operate Motor Vehicles Used for Public Passenger Transportation and medical exam forms. You'll also need to have your fingerprints taken, and you may need to submit your driving history. See the guide for full details on the application process and costs.

Sports Vehicles

A special license isn't necessary to drive an off-highway vehicle, although you'll need to have a standard operator's license to cross any public state highway.