Adding a Passenger (P) Endorsement to Your NY Class B CDL: Complete Requirements

Operating passenger-carrying vehicles in New York requires a P endorsement on your Commercial Driver's License. If you already hold a Class B CDL, here's the step-by-step process to add the passenger endorsement.

Prerequisites

• Valid New York State Class B CDL
• Clean driving record (serious violations may disqualify)
• Medical examiner's certificate current and on file

Step-by-Step Process

1. Pass the P Endorsement Written Test

Covers passenger transport-specific knowledge: loading/unloading procedures, emergency exits, railroad crossing protocols, student management (for school buses), and federal/state passenger regulations. Study the NY CDL Manual Section 4 (Transporting Passengers Safely) and take practice tests.

2. Complete Behind-the-Wheel Training

New York requires formal training from a DMV-approved provider. Training includes:

• Pre-trip inspection for passenger vehicles
• Basic control skills (backing, turning, maneuvering)
• On-road driving in traffic with passengers (simulated or actual)
• Emergency procedures and evacuation drills
• ADA compliance and wheelchair securement (if applicable)

3. Pass the P Endorsement Road Test

Schedule through the DMV. You'll demonstrate:

• Complete pre-trip inspection
• Safe operation in varied traffic conditions
• Proper stops, starts, turns, lane changes
• Railroad crossing procedure
• Student discharge/loading (if school bus)

4. Pay Required Fees

• Written test fee
• Road test fee
• License amendment fee for endorsement addition

Important Notes

School Bus (S) Endorsement: Separate from P endorsement. Requires additional written/road tests and background check.

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): Federal rules (effective Feb 2022) mandate theory and behind-the-wheel training from FMCSA-registered providers before taking the road test.

Renewal: P endorsement renews with your CDL. Maintain medical certificate and complete any required refresher training.

Always verify current requirements at dmv.ny.gov or your local DMV office—regulations change periodically.