ELDT School Bus Endorsement — Online for $20
The ELDT School Bus endorsement course is the FMCSA-required theory training for the School Bus (S) endorsement — 100% online, self-paced, and just $20 at ELDT HQ. The School Bus endorsement lets you drive a school bus transporting students. This course covers the theory curriculum in 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix D, required before your School Bus skills test.
The ELDT School Bus endorsement course is the FMCSA-required Entry-Level Driver Training theory for the School Bus (S) endorsement, defined in 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix D. ELDT HQ offers the theory course 100% online for $20 — one of the most affordable options available.
- What it is: The federally required theory training for the School Bus (S) endorsement.
- Curriculum: The theory units under 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix D.
- Also required: Behind-the-wheel (BTW) training, done separately with a provider that has a bus and range.
- Required before: Your state School Bus endorsement skills test.
- Price: $20 at ELDT HQ for the theory portion — one-time payment, no subscription.
- To pass: Score at least 80% on the theory assessment.
- Good to know: To drive a school bus you also generally need a Class B CDL and the Passenger (P) endorsement.
What Is the School Bus (S) Endorsement?
The School Bus (S) endorsement is added to your commercial driver’s license and authorizes you to drive a school bus transporting students to and from school and school events. School bus driving offers stable hours, good benefits, and steady year-round demand across districts nationwide.
Since February 7, 2022, anyone adding the School Bus endorsement for the first time must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. That training has two parts: the theory portion (what this $20 course covers, following 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix D) and a behind-the-wheel portion done separately with a provider that has a bus and range.
Start School Bus TheoryWhat the School Bus Theory Course Covers
The FMCSA theory curriculum under 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix D — the school-bus-specific topics required before your skills test.
School Bus vs Passenger vs Hazmat ELDT
How the School Bus endorsement compares to the other endorsement courses.
| School Bus (S) | Passenger (P) | Hazmat (H) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it’s for | School buses | Buses & passenger vehicles | Placarded hazmat loads |
| Training required | Theory + BTW | Theory + BTW | Classroom only |
| Test it precedes | Skills test | Skills test | Knowledge test |
| CFR curriculum | Appendix D | Appendix C | Appendix E |
| ELDT HQ theory price | $20 | $20 | $20 |
Explore the other courses: Passenger (P) · Hazmat (H) · Class A ELDT · Class B ELDT
Trusted by CDL Students Nationwide
How the School Bus Endorsement Works
Complete Theory for $20
Sign up, complete the Appendix D theory course online, pass with 80%. Instant certificate.
Do Behind-the-Wheel
Complete your BTW training separately with a TPR provider that has a school bus and range.
Take Your Skills Test
With both parts done and reported to the FMCSA, take your state School Bus skills test.
ELDT School Bus Endorsement — FAQ
What is the ELDT School Bus endorsement course?
The ELDT School Bus endorsement course is the FMCSA-required Entry-Level Driver Training theory you must complete when adding a School Bus (S) endorsement. It follows the curriculum in 49 CFR Part 380, Appendix D. ELDT HQ delivers the theory portion 100% online for $20.
How much does the School Bus endorsement course cost?
ELDT HQ’s School Bus theory course is $20 — a one-time payment with no subscription. Other providers commonly charge $49 to $99 for the same required theory training.
Can I do the School Bus endorsement theory online?
Yes, in most states. The FMCSA allows the theory portion of the School Bus endorsement to be completed entirely online. ELDT HQ’s theory course is 100% online and self-paced — most students finish in a single day. (A few states require in-person training; check your state’s rules.)
Is the School Bus endorsement theory-only?
No. Unlike the Hazmat endorsement, the School Bus (S) endorsement requires both theory and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training. This $20 course covers the theory portion; your BTW must be completed separately with a provider that has a school bus and range.
Do I need other endorsements to drive a school bus?
Generally, yes. To drive a school bus transporting students, you typically need a Class B CDL with both the Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements. Check your state’s specific requirements.
Are there extra state requirements for the S endorsement?
Sometimes. Some states add requirements beyond the federal minimum — such as a CPR or first aid course, a background check, or additional training hours. Check with your state licensing agency for its specific School Bus requirements.
How long does the School Bus theory course take?
There is no federal minimum number of hours for ELDT theory — you must cover all required topics and pass the assessment. Because ELDT HQ’s course is self-paced and online, most students complete the theory in a single day.
What score do I need to pass?
The FMCSA requires an overall score of at least 80% on the written or electronic theory assessment to complete the theory portion of your School Bus ELDT.
What does the School Bus curriculum cover?
The Appendix D curriculum covers loading and unloading students, emergency exits and evacuation, railroad-highway crossings, student management, and the special safety considerations unique to operating a school bus.
When do I NOT need the School Bus endorsement course?
ELDT is not retroactive. If you held a valid School Bus endorsement before February 7, 2022 and keep it current, you don’t need to complete the training. If you obtained a commercial learner’s permit before that date and get your CDL before it expires, you’re also exempt.
Does completing the theory make me eligible for the skills test?
The theory is one of two required parts. Once you complete both the theory and behind-the-wheel training and they’re reported to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, your state confirms you’re eligible for the School Bus skills test.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes. When you complete the theory course and pass the assessment, you receive your ELDT theory completion certificate — your proof of the theory portion and a step toward your School Bus endorsement.
Start Your School Bus Endorsement Theory Today
FMCSA-compliant, 100% online, just $20. Finish the theory in a day and take the next step toward your School Bus endorsement.
Enroll Now — $20