A valid driver's license for a personal vehicle is not substantial enough to get behind the wheel of your church or school bus or 16 person passenger van. Drivers, whether paid or volunteer, must have a commercial driver's license (CDL) if they operate a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight greater than 26,000 pounds or a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
CDL requirements vary by state, so you’ll need to check with your state transportation department for details.
Typically, your drivers will be required to take the following for their CDL:
Generally, you will pay $10 to $60 for a four-year CDL, depending on your state. Additional fees may be charged for the road skills test.
The penalties for driving a church or school bus, large passenger van, or other commercial vehicle without a CDL can be severe. Your organization or your driver risk the following:
All states are connected to one computer system that monitors CDL driving records.
Volunteers or paid staff must inform you of all driving jobs they have held for the past 10 years if they wish to drive a commercial vehicle for you.
A driver must notify the church or ministry within 30 days of a conviction for a traffic violation. This is true no matter what type of vehicle you were driving.
Updated June 2021
The information provided on this page is intended to be helpful, but it does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for the advice from a licensed attorney in your area. We strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program.
Thank you for your interest in Brotherhood Mutual. We appreciate the opportunity to provide your church or other ministry with an insurance quote and will reply to your request as soon as possible.
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