Massachusetts CDL Permit Test - Bus

Before pulling away from a bus stop, a driver should make sure that there are no students running to catch the bus.

Students should board a school bus slowly while in a single-file line and holding the handrails.

It is dangerous for students to retrieve dropped items because doing so could cause them to disappear from the driver's view at a crucial moment. If an item is dropped, the student should get out of the bus's danger zones, get the attention of the driver, and ask the driver to retrieve the item.

If a school bus driver forgets to stop where a student is meant to unload, the driver should not back up to the stop. Instead, they should follow established local procedures.

When properly adjusted, the outside side flat mirrors on a school bus should allow the driver to see along the sides of the bus; the rear tires touching the ground; and 200 feet behind the bus.

During the vehicle inspection test, you must check the power steering belt, water pump belt, alternator belt, and air compressor belt for snugness, cracks, or frays. If any of these components are not belt-driven, you must tell the examiner which one(s), and verify that they are operating properly, mounted securely, and not damaged or leaking.

If you must back up a school bus at a student pick-up point, be sure to pick up all students before you begin backing up. When backing, it is especially important to keep an eye out for latecomers.