Applying for a Texas CDL - Endorsement P (Passenger)

Obtaining a CDL license with a P endorsement allows an individual to work for a company transporting other people. This includes driving a school bus, operating a tour bus, operating public transportation and many others. If you are transporting other individuals, when there will be 16 or more passengers in a vehicle, this special CDL license is needed. Not all drivers who earn a CDL receive such an endorsement, nor do all drivers need this endorsement. However, if you plan to obtain employment where this will be occurring, you need to learn how to apply for a Texas CDL.

Training to Learn & Earn

In the state of Texas, there is no formal education required to apply for or receive a CDL . However, many people who know what their plans are choose to obtain specialized training since there is such a big difference in the way that a regular car or truck and a bus full of people operate. Classes vary in length, but most can be quickly completed. Once complete, you can confidently take the test and know that you will pass since they teach you all of the necessary skills, including how to inspect and drive the vehicle.
If you choose not to take this testing, make sure that you do have prior experience operating a commercial vehicle. There is a CDL training manual available for study, and it is a minimum if you are serious about your career and earning your license.

How to Apply for a CDL Endorsement P License

To apply for a Texas CDL license , individuals must go to their local department of Texas Public Safety. Identification is required to apply, and a fee and testing must be paid and administered. It is necessary that a written exam, driving exam and a physical exam be completed for the license to be earned.
When applying for the CDL license, two pieces of identification is needed, as well as proof of residency in the state. There is a cost of $61 to take the test and receive a license that is valid for one year. Since a special endorsement is required, there are additional questions on the test compared to the traditional CDL test.
The physical exam must be completed before the day that you apply for the CDL license, and a copy of the physician’s order must be taken to the Department of Safety with you. A licensed doctor must perform the exam, stating that you are in good health and would not cause any harm to yourself or others due to health related issues. A state health card is issued and it must be re-administered once every two years.

Requirements for a Texas CDL

Any individual in the state of Texas wishing to apply for or obtain a Texas CDL must be at least 21 years old with a clean driving record. If you have infractions on your record, there is a good chance that you will be ineligible to receive this license. You will be transporting passengers, sometimes locally, sometimes for long distances, and no company will allow an individual with a bad driving record to do this. There are also certain crimes which will disqualify you from earning. The list of crimes includes:

• Murder
• Terrorism
• Treason
• Rape
• Smuggling
• Arson
• Distribution of a controlled substance
• Others

Keep in mind that this is only a partial list of the crimes that will make you ineligible to receive a license. If you have any type of in fracture on your criminal history, it is always best to double check with the state. If you are denied a CDL because of criminal convictions, you can appeal it with the state.

Final Facts about Texas CDL Licenses

To apply for a CDL license in the state of Texas , you must have a clear driving record and appear in person at a local Department of Public Safety Driver License Division. Bring with you photo identification or proof of other ID, two documents stating that you are a resident of the state, social security card, and proof of liability coverage if you own your own vehicle to use for commercial purposes. Once you arrive at the testing center, be prepared to take the knowledge exam, a driving exam, and a vision test. The Self-Certification Affidavit must also be provided. Along with the regular CDL testing, you must also complete special exams in order to receive the Passenger (P) endorsement. You must provider your own vehicle for the driving portion of the test.
Your CDL license is granted for a period of five years, as long as you pass all of the administered tests. Your last step in getting a CDL is to take a photograph and get an ID, as well as have your fingerprints taken. This is a requirement by the state of Texas.