What an F Endorsement Is and Why You Need It

An F endorsement on your Tennessee commercial driver's license lets you operate a bus designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Without it, you cannot legally drive a full-size charter bus, transit bus, or school bus for compensation — even if you hold a valid CDL. The F endorsement is separate from your base CDL class and requires its own testing and background clearance.

Tennessee issues F endorsements through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security's Driver Services Division. The endorsement appears on your license as a code and remains valid for the same renewal period as your CDL — typically eight years for drivers under 21, and longer for older drivers.

Key Takeaways

  • You must hold a valid Tennessee CDL (Class A, B, or C) before you can add an F endorsement.
  • The F endorsement requires passing a written knowledge test specific to passenger vehicle operation and safety.
  • You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a FMCSA-certified examiner.
  • Tennessee charges a fee for the endorsement addition, which varies depending on your current license status and renewal timing.
  • The entire process typically takes two to four weeks once you submit all required documents to Driver Services.

Prerequisites: What You Must Have Before explore

You cannot add an F endorsement to a learner's permit or a non-commercial driver's license. You must already hold a valid Tennessee CDL in Class A, B, or C. If you do not yet have a CDL, you will need to obtain one first by passing the CDL written test and the skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic control, and road test).

You must also be at least 18 years old to hold an F endorsement in Tennessee, though some employers and insurance companies may require you to be 21 or older. Check with your employer or the company hiring you before you begin the process, as their requirements may be stricter than the state's.

If you have any disqualifying traffic violations or criminal convictions on your record, Tennessee may deny the endorsement. Convictions for certain felonies, drug offenses, or crimes of violence can permanently bar you from holding a passenger endorsement. Contact Driver Services directly if you have questions about your specific record.

The Medical Examination and Certificate

Before you can test for the F endorsement, you must obtain a medical certificate from a FMCSA-certified medical examiner. This is not your regular doctor — it must be someone on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners maintained by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can search for examiners in your area on the FMCSA website.

The medical exam covers your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. The examiner will ask about your medical history, current medications, and any conditions that might affect your driving. The exam typically costs between $75 and $150, depending on the examiner's location and practice.

Once the examiner clears you, they will issue a Medical Certificate (MCSA-5875). This document is valid for 24 months. You will need to bring the original or a copy to Driver Services when you submit your F endorsement request. If your medical certificate expires before your CDL renewal, you will need to renew it separately.

The F Endorsement Written Test

Tennessee requires you to pass a written knowledge test covering passenger vehicle operation, safety, and regulations. The test is administered at any Driver Services office and covers topics like passenger loading and unloading procedures, emergency equipment, vehicle inspection specific to buses, and how to handle passenger behavior and medical emergencies.

The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 16 correctly (80 percent) to pass. You are allowed one attempt per visit, though you can return on another day if you fail. There is no fee for the test itself, but you may pay a small fee if you request a retest on the same day.

Study materials are available through the Tennessee Driver Services website and in the Tennessee CDL Manual. Many people also use third-party CDL study guides and practice tests, which can help you prepare. You do not need to attend a formal class to take the test, though some employers and training schools offer preparation courses.

How to Submit Your F Endorsement Request

Once you have passed the written test and obtained your medical certificate, you are ready to submit your endorsement request. You can do this in person at any Driver Services office or by mail. In-person submission is faster and allows you to resolve any document issues when ready.

Bring or mail the following documents:

  • Your current Tennessee CDL
  • Your original or certified copy of the Medical Certificate (MCSA-5875)
  • Proof of Tennessee residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days)
  • A completed process form (available at Driver Services offices or on the website)
  • Payment for the endorsement fee (amount varies; contact your local Driver Services office for current pricing)

If you are mailing your request, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want your documents returned. Driver Services will process your request and mail you an updated license with the F endorsement added. Processing typically takes two to four weeks from the date they receive your complete process.

Timeline and What Happens After Approval

From the moment you decide to pursue an F endorsement to the moment you receive your updated license, plan for four to eight weeks. The medical exam and test can be completed within a few days if you schedule appointments quickly. The longest wait is usually the processing time at Driver Services after you submit your process.

Once your updated license arrives, the F endorsement will be printed on it. You can then legally operate a bus designed for 16 or more passengers. Your employer may also require you to pass a company-specific training or orientation before you begin driving, so check with them about their timeline and requirements.

Your F endorsement will expire on the same date as your CDL. When you renew your CDL, the endorsement renews automatically if you maintain your medical certificate and have no disqualifying violations. If your medical certificate expires before your CDL renewal, you must renew it separately to keep the endorsement active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an F endorsement if I have a speeding ticket or minor violation?

Minor traffic violations like speeding do not automatically disqualify you. However, certain violations — such as reckless driving, driving under the influence, or at-fault accidents — may delay or prevent approval. Contact Driver Services with details of your violation to learn whether it affects your endorsement.

Do I need to take a skills test for the F endorsement, or just the written test?

Tennessee requires only the written knowledge test for the F endorsement. You do not need to take a separate skills test (pre-trip, basic control, or road test) if you already hold a valid CDL. However, your employer may require their own training or evaluation before you drive for them.

What if I fail the written test on my first try?

You can retake the test at any time. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may pay a small fee for each retest. Most people pass on the second attempt after reviewing the study materials more carefully. Driver Services staff can also point you toward specific topics you may have struggled with.

How long is the medical certificate valid, and do I need to renew it before my CDL expires?

The medical certificate is valid for 24 months from the date the examiner issues it. If it expires before your CDL renewal date, you must renew it separately to keep your F endorsement active. You cannot drive a bus legally without a current medical certificate, even if your CDL itself has not expired.

Can I add the F endorsement by mail, or do I have to go to a Driver Services office in person?

You can submit your process by mail, but you must take the written test in person at a Driver Services office. Many people choose to submit their completed process in person as well, since it allows Driver Services to verify all documents when ready and catch any missing items before processing begins.