Do You Need a Special License to Drive a Limo? (Updated 2022)

Limo drivers, or chauffeurs as they’re more commonly known, have the chance to meet celebrities and other famous figures. They go beyond picking up passengers and transporting them to various destinations.

They must also provide exceptional service, collect payments, and stock their cars with snacks and beverages, among other duties required in this particular job field, which is not easy. Though formal education isn’t necessary for a limo driver position, they do need something else-a a driver’s license doesn’t cut it!

To get a job as a limo driver, you will need to have a standard driver’s license and then apply for the chauffeur’s license. For vehicles that don’t carry 16 or more persons, including the driver, this becomes an issue of state law. Note that most states in America require their own set of licenses for taxis, limousines, and shuttle vans alike.

What Are Limo Driver’s Jobs?

Limousine drivers get to meet many people and drive them around in their nice cars. Some passengers are more talkative than others, leading to interesting conversations. Regardless of the situation, they’re expected to behave professionally and provide excellent customer service.

In this role, a limo drivers must maintain a list with information about their passengers and what they like or dislike. It’s essential to be customer-oriented in this job, and you must display strong interpersonal skills. As they drive the limousine, it is necessary for them to feel comfortable dealing with difficult customers while being respectful.

How To Get A Chauffeur License In The United States?

Be sure you know how to apply for a chauffeur’s license and what fields await when the process is complete before beginning.

Meet The Requirements

First, make sure you meet the minimum requirements to receive your Chauffeur’s license in your state. In the United States, one is expected to be 16 or older, although check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to assure that you meet any age requirement.

To be a chauffeur, you need to either have a personal license that is not expired and has no infractions on your driving record, or if you don’t hold one, pass the skills test and be ready to pay the fee. If you currently have a valid driver’s license, all left for you is passing the written knowledge test.

Written Knowledge Test

To get a commercial driver’s license, one needs to meet some basic requirements. One way of obtaining this is by taking the general knowledge test, which consists of at least 30 questions relating to motor vehicle operation and road safety basics.

The Department of Motor Vehicles offers a handbook to study for your exam. To pass the test, you have to answer at least 80% of all questions correctly.

Road Test

You need to pass the road test driving in a limousine after meeting both general knowledge and basic skills requirements. All states require this, but some are more lenient on what you have to do for your Chauffeur’s license- Florida is one state that needs it.

Chauffeur Training Programs

A driver does not need to have a high school diploma or GED to become a chauffeur. However, it is crucial that drivers know that there are private training programs designed for them specifically for the skills and requirements of chauffeurs- these courses are completely voluntary, though!

Furthermore, note there may also be some additional requirements such as first aid certification. Nonetheless, this information should not discourage someone from becoming proficient in this field because being an excellent driver can lead one down many paths, including working at an airport shuttle service or owning their own business!

A Clean Driving Record Is A Must

An applicant’s driving record is pertinent when looking for work as a professional chauffeur. So, if you are concerned about whether or not limo drivers need a special license, keep in mind that a driving record is equally important.

They should have a clean driving record and be free from any major infractions that would disqualify them from consideration. Furthermore, they will be required to pass the background check with flying colors and show no criminal history.

Chauffeur License Requirements In The Us

Limousine drivers need a job-specific license, such as a chauffeur’s license or CDL. However, they do not need formal education. In reality, requirements depend on the state and where you live – in some places, an expired driver’s license might be enough!

In the State of Indiana, for example, there is a licensing endorsement required for limousine drivers. To obtain it, you must be at least 18 years old and have held a valid driver’s license for 12 months or more. You also need to pass an exam and standard vision screening.

You must be wondering about what licence do I need to drive a limo in other states.

The law in Michigan states that taxi and limousine drivers must have a chauffeur license, depending on their working conditions. The latter option allows you to re-enter the country from Mexico, Canada, or other regions outside the U.S., without having to show your ID documents at the border again as long as you already had them pre-approved at an international border crossing station before leaving for these countries.

Conclusion

To be a chauffeur, you need to get your Chauffeur’s License. The exact license will depend on the state that applies it and each country (except for the USA). But whatever your reason for obtaining this specialized license is, holding it can open many career opportunities to you.