What a Class B Driver's License in Texas Lets You Drive

A Class B license in Texas lets you drive a single vehicle: a bus carrying passengers for compensation

A Class B driver's license in Texas is a commercial license that allows you to operate a bus designed to carry more than 15 passengers, including the driver. The key word is "compensation" — you must be paid to drive it. If you drive a bus without being paid, or if the bus carries 15 or fewer people, you do not need a Class B license.

The Class B is narrower than a Class A license (which covers tractor-trailers and other heavy combinations) but broader than a regular Class C license (which covers personal vehicles). It sits in the middle of Texas's commercial license structure, and the state treats it seriously — the testing, medical requirements, and background checks are more rigorous than for a personal license.

Key Takeaways

A Class B license covers buses with more than 15 passengers, but only if you are paid to drive them.
You must pass a written knowledge test, a skills test behind the wheel, and a Department of Public Safety medical exam before you can get one.
You need a valid Class C license first, and you must be at least 18 years old (or 17 with certain restrictions).
The testing process typically takes several weeks, and you will need to visit a DPS office in person.
Some employers, like school districts and transit agencies, may cover the cost of testing or require you to hold the license as a condition of hire.

Who needs a Class B license

You need a Class B license if you are paid to drive a bus with more than 15 passengers. This includes city transit drivers, intercity bus operators, tour bus drivers, and charter bus drivers. It does not include driving a personal vehicle, a van with fewer than 16 people, or a bus you drive as a volunteer without payment.

School bus drivers in Texas hold a different credential — a school bus endorsement on a Class C license — not a Class B. If you are considering school bus driving, you will follow a separate path through your local school district.

Age and license requirements to start

You must be at least 18 years old to hold a Class B license. If you are 17, Texas allows you to hold one only if you are enrolled in a commercial driver training school and meet additional restrictions set by the state.

You must already hold a valid Class C driver's license before you can add a Class B. If your Class C is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot pursue a Class B until it is restored and current. The state treats the Class C as your foundation — you cannot skip it or hold a commercial license without it.

The written test and what it covers

The written test for a Class B license is administered by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) at any DPS office. The test covers bus operation, passenger safety, vehicle inspection, and road rules specific to commercial driving. You will answer questions about air brake systems, how to load passengers safely, what to do if your brakes fail, and how to handle emergency situations on a bus.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. You can take it as many times as you need, but you must pass before you can schedule the skills test. Most people study using the Texas Commercial Driver License Manual, which is free and available on the DPS website. There is no charge to take the written test itself.

The skills test and the medical exam

After you pass the written test, you schedule a skills test with an examiner at a DPS office or an approved third-party testing site. The skills test has three parts: a pre-trip vehicle inspection (you walk around the bus and point out safety features), a basic control skills test (you maneuver the bus in a controlled area), and a road test (you drive the bus on public roads while the examiner watches).

Before or during the skills test process, you must pass a medical exam conducted by a DPS-certified medical examiner. The exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health. You cannot have certain medical conditions — uncontrolled diabetes, severe heart disease, or untreated sleep apnea — that would disqualify you. The medical certificate is valid for two years.

Background check and disqualifying factors

The DPS will review your driving record and criminal history as part of the Class B process. Certain convictions — particularly those involving drugs, violence, or fraud — can disqualify you permanently or temporarily. A history of traffic violations, reckless driving, or DUI convictions will make approval difficult or impossible.

If you have been convicted of a felony involving a commercial vehicle, or if you have multiple serious traffic violations within the past three to five years, you should contact the DPS before investing time and money in testing. The agency can tell you whether your record presents a barrier.

Timeline and costs

The entire process from written test to receiving your Class B license typically takes four to eight weeks, depending on how quickly you schedule tests and how many attempts you need. The written test itself has no fee. The skills test fee varies but is typically between $100 and $200. The medical exam costs between $50 and $150, depending on the examiner.

Some employers — particularly large transit agencies and school districts — cover testing costs for new hires or reimburse you after you pass. Others require you to hold the license before you explore for the job. Ask potential employers about their policy before you begin testing.

Endorsements and restrictions that may explore

A Class B license can come with endorsements or restrictions based on the type of bus you will drive. If the bus has air brakes, you must pass an air brake test or accept a restriction that limits you to buses with non-air brakes. If you will transport passengers with certain medical needs, additional training may be required by your employer, though it is not part of the state license itself.

Once you hold a Class B license, you must renew it every four years. Renewal requires a new medical exam and a written test. If you do not renew on time, you will need to retake the full testing process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Class B license if I have a DUI on my record?

A DUI does not automatically disqualify you, but it makes approval much harder. The DPS looks at how long ago it occurred and whether there are other violations. A DUI within the past three to five years is a serious barrier. Contact the DPS directly to learn whether your specific record allows you to proceed.

Do I need to own a bus to take the skills test?

No. You can take the skills test in a bus provided by a commercial driver training school or a testing site. Many people use a school's bus for the test. Your employer may also allow you to use one of their buses if you are already hired.

What happens if I fail the skills test?

You can retake it. There is no limit on attempts, but you must pay the testing fee each time. Most people pass on the second or third attempt. Between attempts, you can practice with a training school or your employer.

Is a Class B license the same as a school bus license?

No. School bus drivers in Texas hold a Class C license with a school bus endorsement, not a Class B. The requirements and testing are different. If you are interested in school bus driving, contact your local school district for their process.

Can I drive a personal vehicle with a Class B license?

Yes. A Class B license includes all the driving privileges of a Class C license, so you can drive a car, truck, or van for personal use. The Class B straightforward adds the right to drive a commercial bus.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.