HOW DO I GET MY CDL?
Getting your Commercial Driver License (CDL) is the first step toward becoming a qualified school bus driver in Oklahoma. While the process may seem overwhelming at first, it is actually a series of straightforward steps designed to ensure every driver has the knowledge and skills necessary to safely transport students.
This guide walks you through each stage of the CDL process—from obtaining your Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) and completing required training to passing your skills test and receiving your Oklahoma CDL with the appropriate endorsements. Whether you're just getting started or helping a new driver through the process, OKAPT is here to provide the training, resources, and support you need every step of the way.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Before starting the process to obtain your Commercial Driver License (CDL), there are a few important things to know. Becoming a school bus driver requires more than simply passing a driving test-it involves meeting federal and state requirements designed to ensure the safety of the students you will transport.
Before beginning your CDL journey, you should:
- Be eligible to hold a valid Oklahoma driver's license.
- Meet the minimum age requirements established by Oklahoma law.
- Be prepared to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) if you are applying for your first CDL or adding certain endorsements.
- Understand that operating a school bus requires both a Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsement in addition to the appropriate CDL class.
- Be willing to complete classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and state-required knowledge and skills examinations.
Every school district may have additional employment requirements, such as background checks, drug and alcohol testing, or district-specific training. If you have questions about your district's hiring process, contact your transportation department before getting started.
STEPS TO OBTAIN YOUR CDL
Once you have met the initial requirements, you're ready to begin the process of earning your Oklahoma Commercial Driver License (CDL). While there are several steps involved, each one builds on the previous to ensure you have the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to safely operate a school bus. Follow the steps below in order to successfully obtain your CDL, complete the required endorsements, and begin your career transporting Oklahoma's most valuable passengers.
1. PREPARE FOR YOUR WRITTEN EXAM
Use the CDL Driver Manual to study for your written exam. The manual covers information for the general knowledge section that is applicable to all CDL applicants. Additionally, there are specialized sections for additional endorsements and classes that are separate from the general knowledge.
To operate a school bus in the State of Oklahoma, you will need to take the following tests:
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General Knowledge (Required)
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Passenger (Required)
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School Bus (Required)
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Air Brakes (Optional-only required if you will operate school buses equipped with air brake systems.)
2. PREPARE FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT
To take your written exam to obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), you will need to bring the following to your appointment
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Primary ID-Visit Service Oklahoma's Site for Acceptable Documents
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Valid Oklahoma Class D Driver License
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Social Security Number - physical card is not required
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Proof of Oklahoma Residency
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Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Completion Certificate-prior to toaking your skills test
3. TAKE YOUR WRITTEN EXAM
...at a Service Oklahoma location or with a Certified Written Exam Administrator. Visit the Service Oklahoma website for information on how to schedule your exam.
4. GET YOUR COMMERCIAL LEARNER'S PERMIT (CLP)
Once you successfully pass the required written exam for the type of license you are trying to obtain, you will be issued paperwork so that you can obtain your CLP. You must hold this permit for a minimum of 14 full days before you can take your drive test.
5. TAKE YOUR CDL DRIVE TEST
After holding your permit for 14 days, you can schedule an appointment to take your CDL drive test either at a Service Oklahoma location or with a third-party examiner.
