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. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 16 questions correctly. Each question has two, three or four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Minnesota Commercial Driver’s Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Safety, Passengers, School Buses, Cargo, 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
8. Driving at night is:
Explanation
Driving at night is more dangerous than driving during the day. It is more difficult for drivers to see hazards, the glare of headlights can affect drivers' vision, and there are more fatigued and impaired drivers on the road.
9. Before operating a bus, you should ensure that it is safe by:
Explanation
A bus must always be inspected before it is driven. The inspection process must include a review of the inspection report made by the previous driver. You should operate the vehicle only if defects listed on the inspection report have been certified as repaired or as not needing to be repaired.
10. Which of the following is a sign that brakes will need repair?
Explanation
When inspecting your brakes, you should check for cracked drums; shoes or pads covered in oil, grease, or brake fluid; and shoes that are missing, broken, or worn dangerously thin.
11. When other vehicles have trouble seeing you at dawn or dusk, you can increase your visibility by:
Explanation
At dawn or dusk, and in snowy or rainy conditions, you should turn on your headlights to make it easier for other road users to see your vehicle.
12. Failing to exit your vehicle properly during an exercise in the basic vehicle control skills test will result in:
Explanation
When exiting your vehicle during the basic vehicle control skills test, you must face the vehicle and maintain three points of contact at all times. If your testing vehicle is a bus, you must maintain contact with the handrail. Exiting the vehicle incorrectly may result in automatic failure of the basic control skills test.
13. While driving:
Explanation
Texting while driving a CMV is prohibited. "Texting" is defined as manually entering text into, or reading text from, an electronic device.
14. A posted speed limit for cars:
Explanation
Particularly on curves, the maximum posted speed limit may be safe to be driven in a car but too fast to be driven in a bus. Be especially careful when the road has been made slippery by rain or snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Minnesota, follow these steps:
1. Determine if you meet the eligibility requirements to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. You must have a valid Minnesota Class A, B, or C commercial driver’s license, pass a knowledge test for passenger transport, and have a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate.
2. Study the Minnesota Commercial Driver’s Manual and the Passenger Transport Endorsement Supplement. You can find both of these resources on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website.
3. Schedule an appointment to take the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test at a Minnesota Department of Public Safety exam station. You can schedule your appointment online or by calling 651-284-1234.
4. Pay the required fee for the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test.
5. Take and pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 16 questions correctly to pass.
6. Pay the required fee to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your commercial driver’s license.
7. Receive your new commercial driver’s license with the CDL Bus endorsement by mail within 30 days of passing the knowledge test and paying the required fee.
It's important to note that in addition to obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, you may also need to obtain additional endorsements depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as a School Bus Endorsement or a Passenger Endorsement for vehicles carrying more than 16 passengers.
1. Determine if you meet the eligibility requirements to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. You must have a valid Minnesota Class A, B, or C commercial driver’s license, pass a knowledge test for passenger transport, and have a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate.
2. Study the Minnesota Commercial Driver’s Manual and the Passenger Transport Endorsement Supplement. You can find both of these resources on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website.
3. Schedule an appointment to take the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test at a Minnesota Department of Public Safety exam station. You can schedule your appointment online or by calling 651-284-1234.
4. Pay the required fee for the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test.
5. Take and pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 16 questions correctly to pass.
6. Pay the required fee to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your commercial driver’s license.
7. Receive your new commercial driver’s license with the CDL Bus endorsement by mail within 30 days of passing the knowledge test and paying the required fee.
It's important to note that in addition to obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, you may also need to obtain additional endorsements depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as a School Bus Endorsement or a Passenger Endorsement for vehicles carrying more than 16 passengers.
To get a CDL Bus license in Minnesota, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old to drive intrastate (within Minnesota) or 21 years old to drive interstate (across state lines).
2. Possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license.
3. Have a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations.
4. Obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate by passing a physical examination performed by a certified medical examiner.
5. Pass a written knowledge test specific to the type of commercial vehicle you wish to operate. The test covers general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles, tanker vehicles, hazardous materials, passenger transport, and doubles/triples.
6. Pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills test, and on-road driving test.
7. Provide proof of insurance on the vehicle or vehicles you will be operating.
8. Pay the required fees for licensing and endorsements.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as obtaining a Passenger Endorsement for vehicles carrying more than 16 passengers or a School Bus Endorsement for school buses.
1. Be at least 18 years old to drive intrastate (within Minnesota) or 21 years old to drive interstate (across state lines).
2. Possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license.
3. Have a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations.
4. Obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate by passing a physical examination performed by a certified medical examiner.
5. Pass a written knowledge test specific to the type of commercial vehicle you wish to operate. The test covers general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles, tanker vehicles, hazardous materials, passenger transport, and doubles/triples.
6. Pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic control skills test, and on-road driving test.
7. Provide proof of insurance on the vehicle or vehicles you will be operating.
8. Pay the required fees for licensing and endorsements.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as obtaining a Passenger Endorsement for vehicles carrying more than 16 passengers or a School Bus Endorsement for school buses.
Yes, you will need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Minnesota.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all drivers seeking a CDL Bus endorsement to complete specialized training and obtain a Passenger Endorsement. The training must be completed at a school or training facility that is approved by the FMCSA.
In addition to the specialized training, you must also pass a knowledge test specific to passenger transport and demonstrate proficiency in operating a commercial vehicle with passengers. This includes performing a pre-trip inspection, demonstrating basic control skills, and taking an on-road driving test.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as obtaining a School Bus Endorsement for school buses. This may require additional training and experience beyond the standard CDL Bus endorsement requirements.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all drivers seeking a CDL Bus endorsement to complete specialized training and obtain a Passenger Endorsement. The training must be completed at a school or training facility that is approved by the FMCSA.
In addition to the specialized training, you must also pass a knowledge test specific to passenger transport and demonstrate proficiency in operating a commercial vehicle with passengers. This includes performing a pre-trip inspection, demonstrating basic control skills, and taking an on-road driving test.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as obtaining a School Bus Endorsement for school buses. This may require additional training and experience beyond the standard CDL Bus endorsement requirements.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Minnesota.
The three classes of CDL are:
1. Class A: This allows you 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 has a weight rating or more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Class B: This allows you to drive a single vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR less than 26,001 pounds but with the vehicle being towed having a weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less.
3. Class C: This allows you to drive a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of either Class A or Class B, but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
Within these classes, there are also different types of CDL Bus licenses:
1. Passenger Endorsement: This is required for drivers who operate vehicles designed to transport more than 16 passengers (including the driver).
2. School Bus Endorsement: This is required for drivers who operate school buses.
3. Hazardous Materials Endorsement: This is required for drivers who transport hazardous materials.
It's important to note that you may be required to obtain multiple endorsements depending on the type of bus you will be driving and the cargo you will be transporting.
The three classes of CDL are:
1. Class A: This allows you 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 has a weight rating or more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Class B: This allows you to drive a single vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR less than 26,001 pounds but with the vehicle being towed having a weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less.
3. Class C: This allows you to drive a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of either Class A or Class B, but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
Within these classes, there are also different types of CDL Bus licenses:
1. Passenger Endorsement: This is required for drivers who operate vehicles designed to transport more than 16 passengers (including the driver).
2. School Bus Endorsement: This is required for drivers who operate school buses.
3. Hazardous Materials Endorsement: This is required for drivers who transport hazardous materials.
It's important to note that you may be required to obtain multiple endorsements depending on the type of bus you will be driving and the cargo you will be transporting.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Minnesota.
To obtain a CDL Bus license, you must take the driving test in a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that is representative of the type of vehicle you will be operating.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires that the CMV used for the driving test must meet certain requirements, such as having a valid registration and current inspection certificate. The CMV must also have all necessary safety equipment and be in good working order.
It's important to note that you are responsible for providing the CMV for the driving test. You may either use a vehicle provided by your employer or a rental vehicle from a third-party company. However, if you use a rental vehicle, you must provide proof of rental insurance.
Before taking the driving test, make sure to check with the DPS or your employer to ensure that the CMV you will be using meets all necessary requirements.
To obtain a CDL Bus license, you must take the driving test in a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that is representative of the type of vehicle you will be operating.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires that the CMV used for the driving test must meet certain requirements, such as having a valid registration and current inspection certificate. The CMV must also have all necessary safety equipment and be in good working order.
It's important to note that you are responsible for providing the CMV for the driving test. You may either use a vehicle provided by your employer or a rental vehicle from a third-party company. However, if you use a rental vehicle, you must provide proof of rental insurance.
Before taking the driving test, make sure to check with the DPS or your employer to ensure that the CMV you will be using meets all necessary requirements.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Minnesota.
The test will consist of three parts: a pre-trip inspection, a basic control skills test, and a road test. During the road test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely and effectively.
Here are some of the skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the road test:
1. Straight line backing: You will be asked to back the vehicle in a straight line for a specified distance.
2. Alley dock backing: You will be asked to back the vehicle into a space bordered by two lines.
3. Offset backing: You will be asked to back the vehicle into a space bordered by two lines at an angle.
4. Parallel parking: You will be asked to park the vehicle in a space bordered by two lines.
5. Merging onto highway traffic: You will be asked to merge onto a highway safely and smoothly.
6. Turns: You will be asked to make left and right turns safely and smoothly.
7. Lane changes: You will be asked to change lanes safely and smoothly.
8. Intersections: You will be asked to approach and navigate through intersections safely.
It's important to practice these skills and maneuvers before taking the driving test to ensure that you are well-prepared. Also, make sure that you are familiar with all applicable traffic laws and regulations, as well as any specific rules or procedures related to commercial motor vehicle operation in Minnesota.
The test will consist of three parts: a pre-trip inspection, a basic control skills test, and a road test. During the road test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely and effectively.
Here are some of the skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the road test:
1. Straight line backing: You will be asked to back the vehicle in a straight line for a specified distance.
2. Alley dock backing: You will be asked to back the vehicle into a space bordered by two lines.
3. Offset backing: You will be asked to back the vehicle into a space bordered by two lines at an angle.
4. Parallel parking: You will be asked to park the vehicle in a space bordered by two lines.
5. Merging onto highway traffic: You will be asked to merge onto a highway safely and smoothly.
6. Turns: You will be asked to make left and right turns safely and smoothly.
7. Lane changes: You will be asked to change lanes safely and smoothly.
8. Intersections: You will be asked to approach and navigate through intersections safely.
It's important to practice these skills and maneuvers before taking the driving test to ensure that you are well-prepared. Also, make sure that you are familiar with all applicable traffic laws and regulations, as well as any specific rules or procedures related to commercial motor vehicle operation in Minnesota.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement in Minnesota.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must first meet the general requirements for obtaining a CDL, including being at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving), having a valid driver's license, and passing a written knowledge test and driving skills test.
In addition to these requirements, you must also meet the following medical and physical requirements:
1. Medical certification: You must provide a current medical examiner's certificate (MEC) that shows you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. The MEC must be issued by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
2. Vision requirements: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without correction, and your overall field of vision must be at least 70 degrees.
3. Hearing requirements: You must be able to hear a forced whisper from at least 5 feet away or pass an audiometric test.
4. Physical abilities: You must be able to perform the physical tasks required to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely, including climbing in and out of the vehicle, coupling and uncoupling the trailer, and adjusting mirrors and other equipment.
5. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions may disqualify you from obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement or may require additional testing or documentation from your healthcare provider.
It's important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the type of CDL Bus endorsement you are seeking (e.g., passenger endorsement vs. school bus endorsement). Be sure to check with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for specific requirements related to your endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must first meet the general requirements for obtaining a CDL, including being at least 18 years old (21 years old for interstate driving), having a valid driver's license, and passing a written knowledge test and driving skills test.
In addition to these requirements, you must also meet the following medical and physical requirements:
1. Medical certification: You must provide a current medical examiner's certificate (MEC) that shows you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. The MEC must be issued by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
2. Vision requirements: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without correction, and your overall field of vision must be at least 70 degrees.
3. Hearing requirements: You must be able to hear a forced whisper from at least 5 feet away or pass an audiometric test.
4. Physical abilities: You must be able to perform the physical tasks required to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely, including climbing in and out of the vehicle, coupling and uncoupling the trailer, and adjusting mirrors and other equipment.
5. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions may disqualify you from obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement or may require additional testing or documentation from your healthcare provider.
It's important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the type of CDL Bus endorsement you are seeking (e.g., passenger endorsement vs. school bus endorsement). Be sure to check with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for specific requirements related to your endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in Minnesota.
In Minnesota, a CDL Bus endorsement is required to operate any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or any vehicle used in the transportation of hazardous materials that require placarding. This means that if you are driving a bus or other similar vehicle that meets these criteria, you must have a CDL Bus endorsement on your driver's license.
If you are caught operating a commercial motor vehicle without the proper license or endorsement, you could face significant fines and penalties, including suspension or revocation of your driver's license. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while operating a commercial motor vehicle without the proper license or endorsement, you may be held liable for any damages or injuries.
It's important to ensure that you have the proper license and endorsements before operating any commercial motor vehicle in Minnesota. If you are unsure whether you need a CDL Bus endorsement for your specific vehicle or situation, you should contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for guidance.
In Minnesota, a CDL Bus endorsement is required to operate any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or any vehicle used in the transportation of hazardous materials that require placarding. This means that if you are driving a bus or other similar vehicle that meets these criteria, you must have a CDL Bus endorsement on your driver's license.
If you are caught operating a commercial motor vehicle without the proper license or endorsement, you could face significant fines and penalties, including suspension or revocation of your driver's license. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while operating a commercial motor vehicle without the proper license or endorsement, you may be held liable for any damages or injuries.
It's important to ensure that you have the proper license and endorsements before operating any commercial motor vehicle in Minnesota. If you are unsure whether you need a CDL Bus endorsement for your specific vehicle or situation, you should contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for guidance.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Minnesota.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license, you will need to pass the written knowledge test and the driving skills test specific to the type of vehicle you will be operating (e.g., passenger bus, school bus, etc.). You will also need to meet the medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement, as outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Once you have passed the required tests and met all other requirements, you can apply for a new CDL license that includes the Bus endorsement. You will need to provide your current CDL license and pay any applicable fees.
It's important to note that adding a new endorsement to your CDL license may require additional training or certification, depending on the type of vehicle you will be operating. For example, if you are adding a school bus endorsement, you may need to complete specialized training in school bus operation and safety.
If you have any questions about adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Minnesota, you should contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for guidance.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license, you will need to pass the written knowledge test and the driving skills test specific to the type of vehicle you will be operating (e.g., passenger bus, school bus, etc.). You will also need to meet the medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement, as outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Once you have passed the required tests and met all other requirements, you can apply for a new CDL license that includes the Bus endorsement. You will need to provide your current CDL license and pay any applicable fees.
It's important to note that adding a new endorsement to your CDL license may require additional training or certification, depending on the type of vehicle you will be operating. For example, if you are adding a school bus endorsement, you may need to complete specialized training in school bus operation and safety.
If you have any questions about adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Minnesota, you should contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for guidance.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Minnesota.
Here are some of the restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement:
1. Passenger limits: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you are limited to transporting no more than 16 passengers (including the driver) at a time. If you want to transport more than 16 passengers, you will need to obtain additional endorsements and meet additional requirements.
2. Endorsement specific restrictions: Depending on the type of CDL Bus endorsement you have, there may be additional restrictions or requirements. For example, if you have a School Bus endorsement, you are only authorized to operate a school bus that is designed to transport students to or from school or school-related activities.
3. Medical and physical requirements: As with all CDL endorsements, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must meet certain medical and physical requirements, as outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
4. Vehicle-specific restrictions: There may be certain restrictions or limitations for the specific type of vehicle you are operating with your CDL Bus endorsement. For example, if you are operating a bus that is over a certain weight limit or length, you may need additional endorsements or permits.
It's important to understand and comply with all restrictions and limitations associated with your CDL Bus endorsement in Minnesota. Failure to do so could result in fines, penalties, and other legal consequences. If you have any questions about the specific requirements for your CDL Bus endorsement, you should contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for guidance.
Here are some of the restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement:
1. Passenger limits: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you are limited to transporting no more than 16 passengers (including the driver) at a time. If you want to transport more than 16 passengers, you will need to obtain additional endorsements and meet additional requirements.
2. Endorsement specific restrictions: Depending on the type of CDL Bus endorsement you have, there may be additional restrictions or requirements. For example, if you have a School Bus endorsement, you are only authorized to operate a school bus that is designed to transport students to or from school or school-related activities.
3. Medical and physical requirements: As with all CDL endorsements, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must meet certain medical and physical requirements, as outlined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
4. Vehicle-specific restrictions: There may be certain restrictions or limitations for the specific type of vehicle you are operating with your CDL Bus endorsement. For example, if you are operating a bus that is over a certain weight limit or length, you may need additional endorsements or permits.
It's important to understand and comply with all restrictions and limitations associated with your CDL Bus endorsement in Minnesota. Failure to do so could result in fines, penalties, and other legal consequences. If you have any questions about the specific requirements for your CDL Bus endorsement, you should contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for guidance.
