Mass Transit Magazine: A fresh “T” endorsement could unlock new opportunities for transit operators and boost service reliability

In a recent Mass Transit Magazine op-ed, Herold Humphrey, Senior Vice President, BDE Transportation – Americas at EFESO, advocates for a more practical and inclusive approach to driver certification through the introduction of a new “T” endorsement for transit bus operators.

What if a simple licensing change could help solve the nation’s bus driver shortage?

Current Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) requirements, particularly the air brake endorsement, often pose unnecessary barriers for qualified candidates, contributing to operator shortages across agencies nationwide. Humphrey’s proposal seeks to simplify the licensing process while maintaining safety and operational integrity.

“Transit agencies already employ certified mechanics to maintain vehicles,” said Humphrey. “By focusing the licensing process on safe operation and passenger service rather than mechanical knowledge, we can attract more drivers, improve reliability, and strengthen public trust in transit systems.”

The proposed “T” endorsement would align certification requirements with real-world transit needs, emphasizing safety, service reliability, and workforce inclusion. The change could also reduce dropout rates among applicants and help agencies meet rising service demands without compromising safety.