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 four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the North Dakota Commercial Driver Guide. Questions come from chapters covering: Safety, Passengers, School Buses, Cargo, Air Brakes, 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. What is a way to warn drivers behind you that you will be slowing down?
Explanation
To alert drivers behind you that you plan to slow down, tap your brake pedal lightly a few times to make the brake lights flash.
2. The steering wheel should be:
Explanation
To maintain proper control of your vehicle, the steering wheel should be held firmly with both hands. Your hands should be positioned on opposite sides of the wheel.
3. Distracted drivers may be:
Explanation
You may be able to tell that another driver is distracted if you can see them drifting within a lane or across lane dividers; traveling at inconsistent speeds; being preoccupied with a cell phone, a map, food, or other items; or engaging in conversation with passengers.
4. In bad weather, many drivers:
Explanation
In bad weather, particularly when visibility is poor, it is common for automobile drivers to follow closely behind trucks. Open up the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you if you are being followed too closely.
5. When approaching a railroad crossing while operating a school bus, you should generally:
Explanation
In general, school bus drivers should stop before any railroad crossings to check the tracks for approaching trains. Drivers should stop no closer than 15 feet, and no farther than 50 feet, from the nearest rail in order to have the best view of the tracks. They should look and listen for approaching trains before proceeding through the crossing.
6. Which type of brakes do most heavy-duty vehicles have?
Explanation
For safety, most heavy-duty vehicles are equipped with dual air brake systems.
7. Before driving a bus that has been parked for a few days:
Explanation
People sometimes damage unattended buses. Before operating a bus that has been unattended, the driver should always check the interior to make sure that everything is in proper condition for passenger safety.
See the exact questions that will be on the 2025 North Dakota DMV exam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in North Dakota, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a valid North Dakota Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge and skills tests.
2. Study the North Dakota CDL Manual and become familiar with the materials related to bus driving and passenger transportation.
3. Schedule an appointment with a North Dakota CDL testing location to take the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. This test will cover topics such as loading and unloading passengers, safe driving techniques, emergency procedures, and other bus-related regulations.
4. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher.
5. After passing the knowledge test, schedule an appointment to take the CDL Bus endorsement skills test. This test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a bus, including performing pre-trip inspections, controlling the vehicle, and maneuvering in tight spaces.
6. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement skills test with a score of 80% or higher.
7. Pay the required fees for your new CDL Bus endorsement.
Once you have completed these steps, you will be authorized to drive buses and transport passengers in North Dakota.
1. Obtain a valid North Dakota Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the required knowledge and skills tests.
2. Study the North Dakota CDL Manual and become familiar with the materials related to bus driving and passenger transportation.
3. Schedule an appointment with a North Dakota CDL testing location to take the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. This test will cover topics such as loading and unloading passengers, safe driving techniques, emergency procedures, and other bus-related regulations.
4. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test with a score of 80% or higher.
5. After passing the knowledge test, schedule an appointment to take the CDL Bus endorsement skills test. This test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a bus, including performing pre-trip inspections, controlling the vehicle, and maneuvering in tight spaces.
6. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement skills test with a score of 80% or higher.
7. Pay the required fees for your new CDL Bus endorsement.
Once you have completed these steps, you will be authorized to drive buses and transport passengers in North Dakota.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in North Dakota, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old to operate a bus within the state of North Dakota, and at least 21 years old to transport passengers across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
2. Hold a valid North Dakota driver's license.
3. Obtain a valid Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the general knowledge test and any additional tests required for the class of vehicle you intend to drive.
4. Hold a CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.
5. Pass a medical examination and carry a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.
6. Provide proof of your identity and residency in North Dakota.
7. Pass all required knowledge and skills tests for the CDL class and endorsements you are seeking, including any additional tests required for the Bus endorsement.
8. Pass a background check and meet all other requirements set forth by the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
Note that obtaining a CDL Bus license may also require additional training or certification, such as completing a training course or obtaining a passenger endorsement. It is important to check with your state licensing agency for specific requirements related to bus driving and transportation of passengers.
1. Be at least 18 years old to operate a bus within the state of North Dakota, and at least 21 years old to transport passengers across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
2. Hold a valid North Dakota driver's license.
3. Obtain a valid Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the general knowledge test and any additional tests required for the class of vehicle you intend to drive.
4. Hold a CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test.
5. Pass a medical examination and carry a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.
6. Provide proof of your identity and residency in North Dakota.
7. Pass all required knowledge and skills tests for the CDL class and endorsements you are seeking, including any additional tests required for the Bus endorsement.
8. Pass a background check and meet all other requirements set forth by the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
Note that obtaining a CDL Bus license may also require additional training or certification, such as completing a training course or obtaining a passenger endorsement. It is important to check with your state licensing agency for specific requirements related to bus driving and transportation of passengers.
While North Dakota does not have specific experience or training requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, it is highly recommended that you receive specialized training in order to operate a bus safely and effectively.
Many employers require applicants for bus driving positions to have completed a formal training program, such as those offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or truck driving schools. These programs can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a bus safely, including pre-trip inspections, safe driving techniques, passenger management and other bus-related regulations.
Additionally, you may be required to complete a passenger endorsement program which covers topics such as passenger safety, emergency procedures, and proper loading and unloading techniques for passengers.
It is important to note that even if you are not required to complete specialized training programs in order to obtain your CDL Bus endorsement, additional training can still be beneficial for improving your job prospects and ensuring that you can operate your vehicle safely and efficiently.
Many employers require applicants for bus driving positions to have completed a formal training program, such as those offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or truck driving schools. These programs can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a bus safely, including pre-trip inspections, safe driving techniques, passenger management and other bus-related regulations.
Additionally, you may be required to complete a passenger endorsement program which covers topics such as passenger safety, emergency procedures, and proper loading and unloading techniques for passengers.
It is important to note that even if you are not required to complete specialized training programs in order to obtain your CDL Bus endorsement, additional training can still be beneficial for improving your job prospects and ensuring that you can operate your vehicle safely and efficiently.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in North Dakota, based on the type of vehicle you intend to operate and the number of passengers you will be carrying.
The three classes of commercial driver's licenses are:
1. Class A: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, if the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds. This license also allows you to operate any vehicle covered under Class B or Class C.
2. Class B: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a trailer that does not exceed 10,000 pounds GVWR. This license also allows you to operate any vehicle covered under Class C.
3. Class C: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or any such vehicle used in transporting hazardous materials that require placards.
In addition to these classes, there are also different endorsements that may be required for specific types of buses or passenger transportation. The most common endorsement for bus drivers is the Passenger endorsement (P), which is required for drivers who will be transporting 16 or more passengers. Other endorsements may include the School Bus (S) endorsement, which is required for drivers who will be operating school buses; and the Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement, which is required for drivers who will be transporting hazardous materials.
It's important to note that each class and endorsement requires different knowledge and skills tests in order to obtain your CDL Bus license.
The three classes of commercial driver's licenses are:
1. Class A: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, if the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds. This license also allows you to operate any vehicle covered under Class B or Class C.
2. Class B: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a trailer that does not exceed 10,000 pounds GVWR. This license also allows you to operate any vehicle covered under Class C.
3. Class C: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or any such vehicle used in transporting hazardous materials that require placards.
In addition to these classes, there are also different endorsements that may be required for specific types of buses or passenger transportation. The most common endorsement for bus drivers is the Passenger endorsement (P), which is required for drivers who will be transporting 16 or more passengers. Other endorsements may include the School Bus (S) endorsement, which is required for drivers who will be operating school buses; and the Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement, which is required for drivers who will be transporting hazardous materials.
It's important to note that each class and endorsement requires different knowledge and skills tests in order to obtain your CDL Bus license.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in North Dakota. You are required to bring a vehicle that meets the requirements for the class of CDL license you are testing for.
The vehicle you bring for the test must be in safe and working condition, and meet all the requirements for the specific class of CDL license you are testing for. For example, if you are testing for a Class B CDL Bus license, you would need to bring a bus with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
Additionally, the vehicle must be equipped with all necessary safety equipment, such as seat belts, mirrors, lights, and turn signals. The testing location will typically provide an inspection checklist that outlines all of the required safety equipment for your specific class of CDL license.
It's important to ensure that the vehicle you bring to the test is in good working condition and meets all safety requirements. If your vehicle does not meet these requirements or is not in good working condition, you may not be able to take your driving test and will need to reschedule.
The vehicle you bring for the test must be in safe and working condition, and meet all the requirements for the specific class of CDL license you are testing for. For example, if you are testing for a Class B CDL Bus license, you would need to bring a bus with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
Additionally, the vehicle must be equipped with all necessary safety equipment, such as seat belts, mirrors, lights, and turn signals. The testing location will typically provide an inspection checklist that outlines all of the required safety equipment for your specific class of CDL license.
It's important to ensure that the vehicle you bring to the test is in good working condition and meets all safety requirements. If your vehicle does not meet these requirements or is not in good working condition, you may not be able to take your driving test and will need to reschedule.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in North Dakota. The exact skills and maneuvers will depend on the class of CDL license you are testing for, but generally, the test will include a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and an on-road driving test.
For the pre-trip inspection, you will need to demonstrate that you can inspect your vehicle to ensure that it is safe to operate. This includes checking the tires, brakes, lights, and other safety features.
For the basic control skills test, you will need to demonstrate that you can control your vehicle in a variety of situations. This may include backing up, turning around in a tight space, and maneuvering through cones.
For the on-road driving test, you will need to demonstrate that you can safely operate your vehicle on public roads. This may include merging onto a highway, making turns at intersections, navigating through traffic, and stopping safely.
In addition to these skills and maneuvers, you may also be required to demonstrate specific skills related to the type of bus you will be driving. For example, if you are testing for a School Bus endorsement, you may be required to demonstrate your ability to stop at railroad crossings and load/unload students safely.
It's important to practice all of these skills and maneuvers before taking the CDL Bus driving test. You may want to consider taking a CDL training course or practicing with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are fully prepared for the test.
For the pre-trip inspection, you will need to demonstrate that you can inspect your vehicle to ensure that it is safe to operate. This includes checking the tires, brakes, lights, and other safety features.
For the basic control skills test, you will need to demonstrate that you can control your vehicle in a variety of situations. This may include backing up, turning around in a tight space, and maneuvering through cones.
For the on-road driving test, you will need to demonstrate that you can safely operate your vehicle on public roads. This may include merging onto a highway, making turns at intersections, navigating through traffic, and stopping safely.
In addition to these skills and maneuvers, you may also be required to demonstrate specific skills related to the type of bus you will be driving. For example, if you are testing for a School Bus endorsement, you may be required to demonstrate your ability to stop at railroad crossings and load/unload students safely.
It's important to practice all of these skills and maneuvers before taking the CDL Bus driving test. You may want to consider taking a CDL training course or practicing with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are fully prepared for the test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement in North Dakota. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established medical standards that all CDL drivers, including those with a Bus endorsement, must meet.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must pass a medical examination by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical examiner will evaluate your overall health and physical fitness, including your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and ability to perform essential job functions.
In addition to passing the medical examination, there are other physical requirements you must meet to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. For example:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You must be able to safely operate the vehicle and perform all essential job functions.
- You must be able to climb in and out of the vehicle.
- You must be able to properly secure loads and cargo.
If you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle, you may need to obtain an exemption from the FMCSA before you can obtain a CDL Bus endorsement.
It's important to note that once you have obtained a CDL Bus endorsement, you will be required to undergo regular medical examinations to maintain your CDL. You may also be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as part of the FMCSA's drug testing program.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must pass a medical examination by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical examiner will evaluate your overall health and physical fitness, including your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and ability to perform essential job functions.
In addition to passing the medical examination, there are other physical requirements you must meet to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. For example:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You must be able to safely operate the vehicle and perform all essential job functions.
- You must be able to climb in and out of the vehicle.
- You must be able to properly secure loads and cargo.
If you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle, you may need to obtain an exemption from the FMCSA before you can obtain a CDL Bus endorsement.
It's important to note that once you have obtained a CDL Bus endorsement, you will be required to undergo regular medical examinations to maintain your CDL. You may also be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as part of the FMCSA's drug testing program.
In most cases, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement. In North Dakota, a CDL Bus endorsement is required to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
If you are caught operating a commercial passenger vehicle without the proper endorsement, you could face serious penalties, including fines and license suspension or revocation. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while transporting passengers without the proper endorsement, you could be held liable for any injuries or damages that occur.
It's important to note that there are some exceptions to the CDL Bus endorsement requirement. For example, if you are operating a vehicle designed to transport fewer than 16 passengers (including the driver), you may not need a CDL Bus endorsement. However, this will depend on the weight of the vehicle and other factors.
If you're unsure whether you need a CDL Bus endorsement to operate a commercial passenger vehicle, it's important to consult with the North Dakota Department of Transportation or a qualified CDL instructor for guidance.
If you are caught operating a commercial passenger vehicle without the proper endorsement, you could face serious penalties, including fines and license suspension or revocation. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while transporting passengers without the proper endorsement, you could be held liable for any injuries or damages that occur.
It's important to note that there are some exceptions to the CDL Bus endorsement requirement. For example, if you are operating a vehicle designed to transport fewer than 16 passengers (including the driver), you may not need a CDL Bus endorsement. However, this will depend on the weight of the vehicle and other factors.
If you're unsure whether you need a CDL Bus endorsement to operate a commercial passenger vehicle, it's important to consult with the North Dakota Department of Transportation or a qualified CDL instructor for guidance.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license. To do so, you will need to pass the required knowledge and skills tests for the Bus endorsement.
Here are the steps to add a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in North Dakota:
1. Review the requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, including any additional medical or physical requirements.
2. Study the North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual, paying particular attention to the section on passenger transport.
3. Schedule an appointment with a CDL testing facility in North Dakota to take the knowledge and skills tests for the Bus endorsement.
4. Pass the knowledge test for the Bus endorsement, which will cover topics such as vehicle inspection, loading and unloading passengers, and safe driving practices.
5. Pass the skills test for the Bus endorsement, which will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial passenger vehicle.
6. Pay any required fees and submit your documentation to the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
Once you have passed both tests and met all other requirements, your CDL license will be updated to include the Bus endorsement. You will be authorized to operate commercial passenger vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
Here are the steps to add a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in North Dakota:
1. Review the requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, including any additional medical or physical requirements.
2. Study the North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual, paying particular attention to the section on passenger transport.
3. Schedule an appointment with a CDL testing facility in North Dakota to take the knowledge and skills tests for the Bus endorsement.
4. Pass the knowledge test for the Bus endorsement, which will cover topics such as vehicle inspection, loading and unloading passengers, and safe driving practices.
5. Pass the skills test for the Bus endorsement, which will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial passenger vehicle.
6. Pay any required fees and submit your documentation to the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
Once you have passed both tests and met all other requirements, your CDL license will be updated to include the Bus endorsement. You will be authorized to operate commercial passenger vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
Yes, there are certain restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in North Dakota. Here are some of the most important restrictions to be aware of:
1. Passenger restrictions: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you are only authorized to operate commercial passenger vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). You may not operate vehicles designed to transport fewer than 16 passengers, such as vans or minivans.
2. Endorsement expiration: Your CDL Bus endorsement will expire and must be renewed every four years. You will need to pass the knowledge and skills tests again in order to renew your endorsement.
3. Medical certification: As a commercial driver, you are required to maintain a valid medical certification. The type and frequency of the medical examination required will depend on the type of vehicle you operate and the type of cargo you transport.
4. Driving hours: If you operate a commercial passenger vehicle, you are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations that limit the amount of time you can spend driving in a given day or week. These rules are designed to promote safety and prevent driver fatigue.
5. Criminal history: If you have certain types of criminal convictions on your record, you may be prohibited from obtaining or renewing a CDL Bus endorsement in North Dakota.
It's important to understand all of the restrictions and limitations that apply to your CDL Bus endorsement. Violating any of these rules could result in fines, license suspension or revocation, or even criminal charges in some cases.
1. Passenger restrictions: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you are only authorized to operate commercial passenger vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). You may not operate vehicles designed to transport fewer than 16 passengers, such as vans or minivans.
2. Endorsement expiration: Your CDL Bus endorsement will expire and must be renewed every four years. You will need to pass the knowledge and skills tests again in order to renew your endorsement.
3. Medical certification: As a commercial driver, you are required to maintain a valid medical certification. The type and frequency of the medical examination required will depend on the type of vehicle you operate and the type of cargo you transport.
4. Driving hours: If you operate a commercial passenger vehicle, you are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations that limit the amount of time you can spend driving in a given day or week. These rules are designed to promote safety and prevent driver fatigue.
5. Criminal history: If you have certain types of criminal convictions on your record, you may be prohibited from obtaining or renewing a CDL Bus endorsement in North Dakota.
It's important to understand all of the restrictions and limitations that apply to your CDL Bus endorsement. Violating any of these rules could result in fines, license suspension or revocation, or even criminal charges in some cases.
