Bus
This endorsement is required for driving a school bus. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a test The test consists of 20 multiple choice questions. Each question has three answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 16 questions correctly. Test questions come from the California Commercial Driver Handbook. Questions come from chapters covering: School Buses, Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Test, Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test and On-Road Driving. The School Bus endorsement can be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. During a basic vehicle controls skills test exercise, your vehicle's final position should be:
Explanation
You should finish each exercise with your vehicle in the exact position described by the examiner. You can be penalized for failing to complete an exercise exactly in the manner described by the examiner, potentially resulting in failure of the basic control skills test.
2. When making a stop to pick up students, a driver should ensure all surrounding traffic has stopped before:
Explanation
When stopping to pick up students, a school bus driver should ensure that all surrounding traffic has stopped before opening the door and signaling for the students to approach the bus.
3. A school bus's danger zones are located:
Explanation
The danger zones of a school bus are areas in which children are most likely to be hit, either by another vehicle or by the bus itself. Such areas are located to the front, sides, and rear of a bus. Danger zones can extend 10 feet from every side of a bus.
4. If a student is believed to have suffered a back injury, you should:
Explanation
A school bus driver should not attempt to move a student who has suffered a neck or spinal injury unless the student's life is in immediate danger.
5. Before a trip, you should make sure that:
Explanation
When checking your vehicle's pedals during a pre-trip inspection, you should ensure that there is nothing under or around the pedals that will obstruct their use. Make sure the pedals are in proper working condition and that the surfaces of the pedals are grooved, if applicable.
6. When completing an offset back/right parking maneuver, you should:
Explanation
If you are asked to complete an offset back/right parking maneuver, you should first pull straight forward, then back up to the right. Your vehicle must be parked completely within the boundaries of the parking space.
7. When a school bus is approaching a bus stop, the driver should:
Explanation
School bus drivers should approach stops slowly and cautiously.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL bus endorsement in California, follow these steps:
1. Get a California CDL: You must possess a valid California Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before you can apply for any endorsement. If you do not already have a CDL, you will need to pass the required knowledge and skills tests for the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: To apply for a bus endorsement, you must be at least 18 years old and meet the medical requirements for commercial drivers.
3. Study the California CDL Handbook: You will need to study the material that is specific to the Bus endorsement in the California Commercial Driver Handbook.
4. Schedule an appointment: Contact your local California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to schedule an appointment for your written exam.
5. Pass a written exam: You will be required to take and pass a written exam that covers general knowledge and specific information related to bus driving.
6. Pass a skills test: After passing your written exam, you must pass a skills test which includes an inspection of the bus, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Pay fees: Once you have passed both exams, you will need to pay the appropriate fees for your new CDL with Bus endorsement.
8. Receive your CDL Bus endorsement: After completing all of these steps successfully, you will receive your California CDL with Bus endorsement.
1. Get a California CDL: You must possess a valid California Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before you can apply for any endorsement. If you do not already have a CDL, you will need to pass the required knowledge and skills tests for the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: To apply for a bus endorsement, you must be at least 18 years old and meet the medical requirements for commercial drivers.
3. Study the California CDL Handbook: You will need to study the material that is specific to the Bus endorsement in the California Commercial Driver Handbook.
4. Schedule an appointment: Contact your local California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to schedule an appointment for your written exam.
5. Pass a written exam: You will be required to take and pass a written exam that covers general knowledge and specific information related to bus driving.
6. Pass a skills test: After passing your written exam, you must pass a skills test which includes an inspection of the bus, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Pay fees: Once you have passed both exams, you will need to pay the appropriate fees for your new CDL with Bus endorsement.
8. Receive your CDL Bus endorsement: After completing all of these steps successfully, you will receive your California CDL with Bus endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus License in California, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus License, but you may not be able to drive outside the state or transport hazardous materials until you are 21 years old.
2. Possess a valid California driver's license: You must have a valid California driver's license before you can apply for a CDL Bus License.
3. Meet the medical requirements: You must meet the medical requirements for commercial drivers, which includes passing a medical examination and carrying a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.
4. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): Before you can take the CDL Bus License skills test, you must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). To obtain a CLP, you must pass the knowledge tests for the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
5. Pass the CDL Bus License written test: You will be required to take and pass a written exam that covers general knowledge and specific information related to bus driving.
6. Pass the CDL Bus License skills test: After passing your written exam and obtaining your CLP, you must pass a skills test which includes an inspection of the bus, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Pay fees: Once you have passed both exams, you will need to pay the appropriate fees for your new CDL Bus License.
Note that there may be additional requirements depending on your specific situation or endorsements you wish to add to your license.
1. Be at least 18 years old: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus License, but you may not be able to drive outside the state or transport hazardous materials until you are 21 years old.
2. Possess a valid California driver's license: You must have a valid California driver's license before you can apply for a CDL Bus License.
3. Meet the medical requirements: You must meet the medical requirements for commercial drivers, which includes passing a medical examination and carrying a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.
4. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): Before you can take the CDL Bus License skills test, you must obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). To obtain a CLP, you must pass the knowledge tests for the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
5. Pass the CDL Bus License written test: You will be required to take and pass a written exam that covers general knowledge and specific information related to bus driving.
6. Pass the CDL Bus License skills test: After passing your written exam and obtaining your CLP, you must pass a skills test which includes an inspection of the bus, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Pay fees: Once you have passed both exams, you will need to pay the appropriate fees for your new CDL Bus License.
Note that there may be additional requirements depending on your specific situation or endorsements you wish to add to your license.
Yes, you will need to undergo specific training and have experience to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in California. The specific requirements are:
1. Complete a commercial driving training program: You must complete a commercial driving training program that is approved by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
2. Meet the minimum driving experience requirements: You must have at least two years of driving experience with a regular driver's license before you can apply for a CDL Bus endorsement.
3. Pass a skills test: You will need to pass a skills test that includes an inspection of the bus, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
4. Additional endorsements: Depending on the type of bus you plan to drive, you may need to obtain additional endorsements such as passenger or school bus endorsements.
It is recommended that you seek out a reputable commercial driving training program to ensure that you are properly trained on all aspects of operating a commercial vehicle.
1. Complete a commercial driving training program: You must complete a commercial driving training program that is approved by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
2. Meet the minimum driving experience requirements: You must have at least two years of driving experience with a regular driver's license before you can apply for a CDL Bus endorsement.
3. Pass a skills test: You will need to pass a skills test that includes an inspection of the bus, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
4. Additional endorsements: Depending on the type of bus you plan to drive, you may need to obtain additional endorsements such as passenger or school bus endorsements.
It is recommended that you seek out a reputable commercial driving training program to ensure that you are properly trained on all aspects of operating a commercial vehicle.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in California. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established three different classes of commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) based on the weight and type of the vehicle being driven.
1. Class A CDL: This license is required if you plan to drive a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Class B CDL: This license is required if you plan to drive a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more where the vehicle being towed weighs less than 10,000 pounds.
3. Class C CDL: This license is required if you plan to transport hazardous materials or operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
The type of CDL Bus license you need will depend on the type and weight of the bus you plan to drive. For example, if you plan to drive a bus with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more that is designed to transport passengers, you will need a Class B or Class C CDL with a passenger endorsement. Additionally, if you plan on driving a school bus or transporting children you will also need to obtain a school bus endorsement.
1. Class A CDL: This license is required if you plan to drive a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Class B CDL: This license is required if you plan to drive a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more where the vehicle being towed weighs less than 10,000 pounds.
3. Class C CDL: This license is required if you plan to transport hazardous materials or operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
The type of CDL Bus license you need will depend on the type and weight of the bus you plan to drive. For example, if you plan to drive a bus with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more that is designed to transport passengers, you will need a Class B or Class C CDL with a passenger endorsement. Additionally, if you plan on driving a school bus or transporting children you will also need to obtain a school bus endorsement.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in California. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires that you provide a vehicle that meets their specific requirements for the CDL Bus driving test. The vehicle must be designed to transport passengers and meet certain specifications, such as having a minimum seating capacity of 15 passengers, being equipped with air brakes if the bus is so equipped, and having proper safety equipment.
If you are enrolled in a commercial driving training program, they will typically provide a bus for you to use during the CDL Bus driving test. If you are not enrolled in a training program, you will need to either rent or borrow a bus that meets the DMV's requirements. It is important to confirm with the DMV ahead of time that the vehicle meets all requirements before scheduling your driving test.
If you are enrolled in a commercial driving training program, they will typically provide a bus for you to use during the CDL Bus driving test. If you are not enrolled in a training program, you will need to either rent or borrow a bus that meets the DMV's requirements. It is important to confirm with the DMV ahead of time that the vehicle meets all requirements before scheduling your driving test.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in California, you will need to demonstrate your ability to perform specific skills and maneuvers while driving a bus. These skills and maneuvers will test your ability to safely operate a bus and include:
1. Vehicle inspection: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of the bus to ensure that it is safe and in good working condition.
2. Basic control skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to maneuver the bus through a variety of basic control exercises, such as straight line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the bus in various traffic situations, such as making turns, changing lanes, merging onto highways, and navigating through intersections.
4. Emergency procedures: You may also be required to demonstrate your knowledge of emergency procedures, such as how to respond in the event of a vehicle fire or brake failure.
It is important to note that the specific skills and maneuvers required during the CDL Bus driving test may vary depending on the testing location and examiner. Be sure to check with your local DMV office or commercial driving training program for more information on what you can expect during the test.
1. Vehicle inspection: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of the bus to ensure that it is safe and in good working condition.
2. Basic control skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to maneuver the bus through a variety of basic control exercises, such as straight line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the bus in various traffic situations, such as making turns, changing lanes, merging onto highways, and navigating through intersections.
4. Emergency procedures: You may also be required to demonstrate your knowledge of emergency procedures, such as how to respond in the event of a vehicle fire or brake failure.
It is important to note that the specific skills and maneuvers required during the CDL Bus driving test may vary depending on the testing location and examiner. Be sure to check with your local DMV office or commercial driving training program for more information on what you can expect during the test.
Yes, there are additional medical or physical requirements that must be met to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in California. These requirements are in place to ensure that you are physically capable of safely operating a bus.
Firstly, you must have a valid medical certificate issued by a licensed medical examiner. This certificate must be renewed at least every two years and it must be maintained on file with the DMV.
Additionally, you must meet certain physical requirements, such as having good hearing and vision, being able to distinguish colors, and having good control of your limbs. You will be required to pass a physical examination by a licensed medical examiner who is certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
If you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to safely operate a bus, such as heart disease or diabetes, you may need to provide additional documentation or clearance from your treating physician.
It is important to note that failing to meet these medical or physical requirements may result in disqualification from obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. Be sure to consult with your local DMV office or commercial driving training program for more information on the specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in California.
Firstly, you must have a valid medical certificate issued by a licensed medical examiner. This certificate must be renewed at least every two years and it must be maintained on file with the DMV.
Additionally, you must meet certain physical requirements, such as having good hearing and vision, being able to distinguish colors, and having good control of your limbs. You will be required to pass a physical examination by a licensed medical examiner who is certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
If you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to safely operate a bus, such as heart disease or diabetes, you may need to provide additional documentation or clearance from your treating physician.
It is important to note that failing to meet these medical or physical requirements may result in disqualification from obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. Be sure to consult with your local DMV office or commercial driving training program for more information on the specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in California.
No, it is illegal to transport passengers for hire without a CDL Bus endorsement in California. This endorsement is required for any driver who operates a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in California, you must meet certain requirements and pass both a written knowledge test and a skills test. Additionally, you must have a valid medical certificate issued by a licensed medical examiner.
If you are caught transporting passengers without the required endorsement, you may be subject to fines and penalties. Furthermore, your driving record will be negatively impacted, and you may also face legal action.
It is important to note that the safety of passengers is paramount when it comes to commercial driving. The CDL Bus endorsement is in place to ensure that drivers have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a bus and transport passengers.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in California, you must meet certain requirements and pass both a written knowledge test and a skills test. Additionally, you must have a valid medical certificate issued by a licensed medical examiner.
If you are caught transporting passengers without the required endorsement, you may be subject to fines and penalties. Furthermore, your driving record will be negatively impacted, and you may also face legal action.
It is important to note that the safety of passengers is paramount when it comes to commercial driving. The CDL Bus endorsement is in place to ensure that drivers have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a bus and transport passengers.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in California. To do so, you will need to apply for the endorsement and pass both a written knowledge test and a skills test specific to bus driving.
To apply for the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to visit a California DMV office and provide proof of your identity, legal presence in the United States, Social Security Number (SSN), and California residency. You will also need to provide a valid medical certificate issued by a licensed medical examiner.
Once you have met all of the requirements and passed the necessary tests, the CDL Bus endorsement will be added to your existing CDL license. It is important to note that there may be additional fees associated with adding the endorsement to your license.
If you do not currently hold a CDL license, you will need to apply for a new license and meet all of the requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
To apply for the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to visit a California DMV office and provide proof of your identity, legal presence in the United States, Social Security Number (SSN), and California residency. You will also need to provide a valid medical certificate issued by a licensed medical examiner.
Once you have met all of the requirements and passed the necessary tests, the CDL Bus endorsement will be added to your existing CDL license. It is important to note that there may be additional fees associated with adding the endorsement to your license.
If you do not currently hold a CDL license, you will need to apply for a new license and meet all of the requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are certain restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in California. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of passengers and other motorists on the road.
Some of the common restrictions and limitations for CDL Bus drivers in California include:
1. Passenger limit: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to carrying a maximum of 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
2. Endorsements: Depending on the type of bus you are driving, you may need additional endorsements, such as a Passenger endorsement (P) or School Bus endorsement (S).
3. Speed limit: In California, buses are subject to lower speed limits than other vehicles on certain roads and highways.
4. Hours of service: CDL Bus drivers are subject to federal hours-of-service rules, which limit the amount of time they can drive in a given day and week.
5. Alcohol and drug testing: CDL Bus drivers must adhere to strict alcohol and drug testing requirements to ensure they are not operating a vehicle while impaired.
It is important for CDL Bus drivers to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and follow them at all times to ensure their own safety and that of their passengers and other motorists on the road.
Some of the common restrictions and limitations for CDL Bus drivers in California include:
1. Passenger limit: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to carrying a maximum of 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
2. Endorsements: Depending on the type of bus you are driving, you may need additional endorsements, such as a Passenger endorsement (P) or School Bus endorsement (S).
3. Speed limit: In California, buses are subject to lower speed limits than other vehicles on certain roads and highways.
4. Hours of service: CDL Bus drivers are subject to federal hours-of-service rules, which limit the amount of time they can drive in a given day and week.
5. Alcohol and drug testing: CDL Bus drivers must adhere to strict alcohol and drug testing requirements to ensure they are not operating a vehicle while impaired.
It is important for CDL Bus drivers to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and follow them at all times to ensure their own safety and that of their passengers and other motorists on the road.
