Program Overview
The Passenger Endorsement qualifies you to operate buses and other passenger-carrying vehicles. Over 14 hours you'll cover ELDT theory, emergency procedures, and hands-on proficiency behind the wheel of a passenger vehicle. Drivers 18–20 years old may earn the endorsement but are restricted to intrastate Washington State operation until age 21.
What You'll Learn
- ELDT passenger-specific theory per 49 CFR Part 380 Appendix C (vehicle inspections, loading/unloading, passenger safety)
- Truckers Against Trafficking and whistleblower driver rights
- Emergency procedures, use of safety equipment, and evacuation drills
- Hours-of-service considerations and defensive driving for passenger operations
- Pre-trip and post-trip inspections specific to passenger vehicles
- Safe passenger loading and unloading, including use of designated stops
- Smooth acceleration and braking, wide turns, and space management
- Risk reduction when transporting passengers
Training Hours Breakdown
| Classroom Instruction | 4 hrs |
| Proficiency Training | 10 hrs |
| Total Hours | 14 hrs |
Your Investment
| Registration Fee | $100.00 |
| Tuition | $1,349.75 |
| Course Materials and Books | $100.00 |
| Drug Test | $50.00 |
| Skills Test (1 attempt) | $175.00 |
| WA State Skills Test Payment Fee | $5.25 |
| Sales Tax | $44.48 |
| Total | $1,824.48 |
Comparing Schools?
Make sure you're comparing total cost — not just tuition. Our fee table shows everything. No hidden fees, no surprise charges at the end.
Other Costs Paid Direct to WA DOL
These fees are not included in the tuition above. They are paid directly to the Washington State Department of Licensing.
| WA Driving Record (MVR / full abstract)paid direct to WA DOL | $15 |
| Final license fee (CDL card)paid direct to WA DOL after passing skills test; exact amount set by DOL based on license expiration date | ~$37 – $130 |
See current WA DOL fee schedules: driving records · commercial driver licenses.
If Additional Time Is Needed
Retest fees ($175/attempt skills test · $35/attempt knowledge test), makeup sessions for unapproved absences, and 1:1 tutoring are billed separately. Most students complete the program without these — they depend on individual progress.
Don't Let Cost Stand in Your Way
External funding may be available. We connect you with programs that can help.
Prices reflect Burlington location (8.9% sales tax). Ferndale rates may vary slightly.
Prerequisites include a current WA DOL motor vehicle abstract. The DOL charges a $15 fee paid direct to WA DOL for this record — not included in tuition above.
Traveling From Out of Town?
Preferred hotel partner from $68/night — 5 minutes from campus.