Missouri requires a separate chauffeur license if you drive passengers for hire

A chauffeur driver's license in Missouri is a commercial endorsement that allows you to operate a vehicle while transporting passengers for compensation. It is not the same as a regular driver's license. You cannot legally drive a taxi, rideshare vehicle, limousine, or any passenger-for-hire service with only a standard Missouri license — you need the chauffeur endorsement added to your license.

The Missouri Department of Revenue handles chauffeur licensing. The process involves passing a written knowledge test specific to passenger safety and commercial driving rules, passing a driving skills test, and meeting medical and background requirements. The entire process typically takes several weeks from start to finish.

Key Takeaways

  • Missouri issues a chauffeur endorsement on your existing driver's license, not a separate document, and you must be at least 21 years old to hold one.
  • You must pass a written test covering passenger safety, vehicle maintenance, and commercial driving regulations specific to chauffeur work.
  • A medical examination and background check are required before you can be issued the endorsement.
  • The chauffeur endorsement costs a fee that varies depending on the length of validity you choose, and you must renew it periodically.

Age, residency, and medical requirements for chauffeur licensing

You must be at least 21 years old to hold a Missouri chauffeur license. You also must be a Missouri resident or have a valid reason to work in the state — such as employment with a transportation company based in Missouri. Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement in your name, is required when you explore.

Before you can receive the chauffeur endorsement, you must pass a medical examination performed by a licensed physician or certified medical examiner. The exam focuses on vision, hearing, and overall fitness to operate a commercial vehicle safely. You will receive a form from the Department of Revenue that your doctor must complete and sign. If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive — such as uncontrolled seizures, severe hearing loss, or vision problems — you may be denied the endorsement.

Missouri also requires a background check as part of the chauffeur licensing process. Certain criminal convictions, particularly those involving violence, theft, or drug offenses, can disqualify you from receiving or renewing a chauffeur license. Driving under the influence convictions within a set timeframe will also affect your may be able to access.

The written knowledge test for chauffeur drivers

The chauffeur knowledge test covers material specific to passenger transportation and commercial driving. The test includes questions about passenger safety procedures, proper vehicle maintenance, traffic laws that explore to commercial drivers, and your responsibilities as a chauffeur. You will need to demonstrate understanding of topics such as how to information passengers safely, what to do in case of an accident, and how to maintain a professional demeanor while driving.

The test is administered at Missouri Department of Revenue offices. You can study using the Missouri Driver's Guide and the Chauffeur Handbook, both available on the Department of Revenue website. Most people schedule their test appointment in advance by visiting a local office or calling ahead. The test is typically multiple choice and takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. You must score at least 80 percent to pass.

If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the test after a waiting period. There is no limit to the number of times you can retake it, but each attempt requires paying the test fee again.

The driving skills test and vehicle requirements

After you pass the written test, you must pass a practical driving skills test. This test is conducted by a Missouri Department of Revenue examiner and takes place on public roads or a designated test course. The examiner will evaluate your ability to operate the vehicle safely, follow traffic laws, handle passengers appropriately, and respond to various driving situations.

You must provide a vehicle for the skills test that meets Missouri's requirements for commercial passenger vehicles. The vehicle must be in good mechanical condition, have valid registration and insurance, and pass a safety inspection. The Department of Revenue will provide a checklist of what the vehicle must have — such as working brakes, lights, wipers, and safety equipment — before the test begins.

During the test, the examiner will observe how you handle the vehicle, how you communicate with passengers, and how you respond to instructions. The test typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes. You must demonstrate smooth acceleration and braking, proper lane changes, correct turning, and appropriate speed control. If you fail the skills test, you can retake it after scheduling another appointment and paying the test fee.

Fees, validity period, and renewal requirements

The cost of a Missouri chauffeur endorsement depends on how long you want it to be valid. Missouri offers chauffeur licenses valid for different periods — typically one, three, or five years. The fee increases with the length of validity. You pay the fee when you submit your process or at the time you pass your tests, depending on your local office's procedures.

Your chauffeur endorsement will be printed directly on your Missouri driver's license. The expiration date will be shown on the license itself. You must renew the endorsement before it expires if you want to continue driving passengers for hire.

To renew, you must submit a renewal process, pay the renewal fee, and pass a new medical examination. Some renewal situations may require you to retake the written test or skills test, particularly if your license was suspended or if there have been changes to Missouri's chauffeur regulations. Contact your local Department of Revenue office to find out what is required for your specific renewal.

Background checks and disqualifying factors

Missouri's background check for chauffeur licensing looks at your driving record and criminal history. Certain convictions will disqualify you from holding a chauffeur license. These include felony convictions involving violence, theft, fraud, or drug trafficking. Convictions for driving under the influence, reckless driving, or hit-and-run offenses within a certain timeframe will also affect your may be able to access.

If you have a criminal record or serious driving violations, you should contact the Missouri Department of Revenue before you begin the process process. They can tell you whether your specific situation will prevent you from obtaining the endorsement. Some disqualifications are permanent, while others may expire after a set number of years.

Even after you receive your chauffeur license, certain actions can result in suspension or revocation. These include accumulating too many traffic violations, being convicted of a crime while holding the license, or being found to have falsified information on your process.

Where to explore and what documents to bring

You explore for a Missouri chauffeur endorsement at any Missouri Department of Revenue office. You can find the office nearest you on the Department of Revenue website. Some offices accept walk-in applications, while others require appointments. It is a good idea to call ahead or check online to see what your local office's procedures are.

Bring your current Missouri driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), your completed medical examination form signed by a licensed physician, and payment for the process fee. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring proof of legal residency status. Have your Social Security number available as well.

The Department of Revenue office will verify your information, process your background check, and schedule you for the written test and skills test. Once you pass both tests and your background check is cleared, your chauffeur endorsement will be added to your license. You will receive your updated license in the mail within one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my regular Missouri driver's license to drive for Uber or Lyft?

No. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft require a chauffeur license or commercial driver's license endorsement in Missouri. Driving without the proper endorsement is illegal and can result in fines and license suspension. You must obtain the chauffeur endorsement before you begin working for any passenger-for-hire service.

How long does it take to get a chauffeur license from start to finish?

The timeline varies, but most people complete the process in three to six weeks. This includes time to study for the written test, schedule and pass the test, obtain your medical examination, complete the background check, schedule and pass the skills test, and receive your updated license in the mail. If you fail either test, the process takes longer.

What happens if I fail the driving skills test?

You can retake the skills test after scheduling another appointment with the Department of Revenue. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each attempt requires paying the test fee again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after practicing with a professional driving instructor.

Do I need a commercial driver's license instead of a chauffeur endorsement?

A commercial driver's license (CDL) is different from a chauffeur endorsement. A CDL is required if you drive large vehicles or transport hazardous materials. For most passenger-for-hire work — such as taxi, limousine, or rideshare driving — a chauffeur endorsement on your regular license is sufficient. Check with your employer or the specific service to confirm which one you need.

Can I get a chauffeur license if I have a DUI conviction?

It depends on how long ago the conviction occurred. Missouri has specific timeframes for how long certain convictions affect chauffeur licensing may be able to access. A DUI conviction from many years ago may no longer disqualify you, but a recent one will. Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to discuss your specific situation before you explore.