Do you need a special license to drive a school bus?
by admin on Tuesday, May 10th, 2011 | 4 Comments
Ok, im 18 years old and planning a road trip with my friends, there is an old school bus for sale by my house, and were thinking about buying it to use for the trip like an rv. I live missouri, and im wondering if my class f license is good enough to be able to drive it, im not using it for work purposes or to transfer kids to school. so is everything all good?
Not sure where you live as the laws do change but, the number of passengers are a factor. Call your local licence bureau they will know.
Yes, you do. There’s a special license and a special class you have to take, and you have to take a driving test on the road, with a bus.
Sorry. Your standard license won’t cut it.
Your class “F” license won’t cut it.
You’ll need a CDL. Which class will depend on the vehicle’s weight.
If the bus is greater than 26,000 lbs Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), you’ll need a class “B”.
If the bus is 26,000 lbs or below, then you’ll need a class “C” CDL.
On either class of license, you’ll need a Passenger (P) endorsement since buses are designed to seat 16 or more people (including the driver).
You’ll only be allowed to operate the bus in state, since you have to be 21 to cross state lines in a vehicle that requires a CDL.
Assuming it doesn’t have air brakes, or weigh more than 26,000 pounds, you are good with just your regular license.