Not Enough Drivers for Your Bus? Let's Fix That.

Carpenter Bus Sales can reclassify your bus from CDL to Non-CDL, so more of your staff or volunteers are cleared to drive it.

Staff member stepping into a Non-CDL shuttle bus after conversion

If your bus already requires a CDL, you're limiting who's allowed to drive it. Many organizations have plenty of people willing to help, just not enough with a commercial license.

A Non-CDL reclassification opens your bus up to more of your team, so it actually gets used. Fill out the form below and we'll talk through your specific bus and situation together.

Wondering If Your Bus Qualifies?

Every bus is a little different, so rather than guess based on a general list, the easiest first step is just to tell us about yours. A few things we'll look at together include:

  • Who built it: Some manufacturers support reclassification and some don't, so we'll check this for you.
  • Age: Newer buses tend to be the easiest fit, though it varies case by case.
  • Condition: A bus that's in good working shape has the best chance of qualifying.

Not sure about any of this, or just want a straight answer for your specific bus? That's exactly what the form below is for. Fill it out and we'll follow up to figure it out together, no guesswork needed on your end.

How It Works

  • Submit Your Info: Fill out the form with your organization and vehicle details.
  • Talk It Through: Our team reaches out to confirm eligibility and walk you through what's needed for your specific bus.
  • Letter & Photos: We'll ask for a short letter from your organization, and our team takes before-and-after photos of the seats removed.
  • Updated Labels Issued: Once approved, it typically takes about two weeks to receive updated capacity labels from the manufacturer.
  • Installed Before Pickup: Carpenter Bus installs the new labels in-house at Franklin, TN or Waco, TX before your bus leaves our facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can any bus be converted from CDL to Non-CDL?

A: It depends on a few things, like the bus's manufacturer, age, and condition. Rather than try to guess from a general list, the best way to know for sure is to fill out our form. We'll look at your specific bus and talk through your options together.

Q: What does the conversion process involve?

A: It's a bit more than removing seats. It typically involves a short letter from your organization confirming the change. From there, our team takes before-and-after photos of the interior. Once everything's approved, updated capacity labels are issued by the manufacturer and installed before your bus leaves Carpenter.

Q: How long does it take?

A: Once your letter and photos are submitted, it typically takes about two weeks to get updated labels back from the manufacturer. Overall timing can vary based on your specific bus.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Reclassification typically runs between $3,000 and $5,000, depending on the number of seats removed and disposal costs.

Q: Do I need to bring the bus to Carpenter, or can you pick it up?

A: This is currently handled as a drop-off service at our Franklin, TN or Waco, TX locations. Fill out the form below and our team will go over the details for your specific situation.

Q: Will this work regardless of my state's CDL requirements?

A: CDL requirements vary by state, so reclassification needs can look a little different depending on where you're located. Reach out to us for specifics on your state, and we'll make sure the conversion fits your requirements.

Get Your Conversion Questions Answered

Tell us a bit about your bus and we'll follow up with next steps.

Your Contact Info

About Your Bus