You need a CDL to drive commercial vehicles such as semi trucks and buses. CDLs come in three classes: Class A allows you to operate a truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 26,001 pounds.

Yes, to drive a bus in Florida in 2026, you must hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL) with a specific "P" (Passenger) endorsement. For large buses (more than 26,001 lbs), you need a Class B CDL, while for smaller buses (under 26,001 lbs but carrying 16+ passengers including the driver), a Class C CDL is required. The process involves passing a "General Knowledge" exam, a vision test, and a practical skills test in a vehicle of the same class you intend to drive. Since late 2025, Florida has also strictly mandated electronic medical certification; you must be cleared by a healthcare provider to ensure you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. If you are under 21, your CDL will be restricted to "intrastate" travel only, meaning you can drive a bus within Florida but cannot legally cross state lines.

Yes, you need a specific license to drive a bus in Florida. The standard Class E driver’s license is not sufficient.

Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:

1. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

To drive a bus designed to transport 16 or more persons (including the driver), or a bus of any size that is used to transport hazardous materials, you must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with the proper endorsements.

2. Required CDL Class

• Class B CDL: Required for operating a single bus with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. This covers most full-size school buses, coach buses, and transit buses.
• Class C CDL: Required if the bus has a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds but is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or is used to transport hazardous materials.

3. Mandatory Endorsements

You must add specific endorsements to your CDL by passing additional knowledge and skills tests: Passenger (P) Endorsement: Required for ALL buses designed to carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver). School Bus (S) Endorsement: Required if you will be driving a school bus. This has additional background check and training requirements. Air Brakes (L or Z Restriction Removal): If the bus is equipped with air brakes, you must pass an air brakes test.

4. Key Requirements to Obtain a CDL with Passenger Endorsement

• Be at least 18 years old (to drive intrastate) or 21 years old (to drive interstate or transport hazardous materials).
• Hold a valid Florida driver’s license.
• Pass a Department of Transportation