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 three or four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Oregon Commercial Driver Manual. 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. The area to the left of a school bus is considered especially dangerous to students because:
Explanation
While all sides of a school bus have danger zones, the left side is particularly hazardous to students due to the presence of passing vehicles.
2. School buses:
Explanation
In general, school buses manufactured after 1998 or 1999 must be equipped with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). Many older buses are equipped with ABS as well.
3. During a basic vehicle control skills test, you may be asked to:
Explanation
Maneuvers that may be included in the basic vehicle control skills test include straight line backing, offset back/right parking, offset back/left parking, driver side parallel parking, conventional parallel parking, and alley docking.
4. After traveling under an overpass during the driving skills test, you may be asked to recall:
Explanation
If you drive under an overpass during the on-road driving skills test, your examiner may ask you to recall the posted clearance or height of the overpass.
5. If a school bus stalls on a railroad track:
Explanation
If a school bus becomes stalled or trapped on railroad tracks, the driver should immediately evacuate everyone from the bus. If the bus is struck by a train, to avoid any flying debris, the students should be led far away from the bus at an angle that is in the direction of any oncoming train.
6. The overhead rearview mirror is located:
Explanation
In a school bus, the overhead rearview mirror is mounted directly above the windshield on the driver’s side.
7. Loading and unloading a bus:
Explanation
More students are killed each year during loading or unloading of school buses than while riding on school buses. Therefore, it is critical that school bus drivers follow appropriate safety procedures during loading and unloading.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Oregon, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a valid Oregon Commercial Driver License (CDL) by passing the CDL knowledge and skills tests.
2. Complete a CDL application form and select the appropriate endorsement(s) you want to add to your license.
3. Schedule an appointment with a DMV-approved third-party tester or visit a DMV field office to take the CDL Bus knowledge test.
4. Pass the CDL Bus knowledge test with a score of at least 80%.
5. Schedule an appointment with a DMV-approved third-party tester or visit a DMV field office to take the CDL Bus skills test.
6. Pass the CDL Bus skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
7. Pay the fee for adding the CDL Bus endorsement to your license.
Note that you may be required to meet additional requirements, such as providing proof of medical certification, depending on your specific situation. It's also important to study the Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, which includes information on driving buses and other commercial vehicles, before taking the tests.
1. Obtain a valid Oregon Commercial Driver License (CDL) by passing the CDL knowledge and skills tests.
2. Complete a CDL application form and select the appropriate endorsement(s) you want to add to your license.
3. Schedule an appointment with a DMV-approved third-party tester or visit a DMV field office to take the CDL Bus knowledge test.
4. Pass the CDL Bus knowledge test with a score of at least 80%.
5. Schedule an appointment with a DMV-approved third-party tester or visit a DMV field office to take the CDL Bus skills test.
6. Pass the CDL Bus skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
7. Pay the fee for adding the CDL Bus endorsement to your license.
Note that you may be required to meet additional requirements, such as providing proof of medical certification, depending on your specific situation. It's also important to study the Oregon Commercial Driver Manual, which includes information on driving buses and other commercial vehicles, before taking the tests.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Oregon, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years of age or 21 years of age if you plan to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Hold a valid driver's license and have at least one year of driving experience.
3. Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence in the U.S.
4. Submit a completed CDL application form.
5. Pass a DOT physical exam and obtain a medical certificate, unless you are exempt.
6. Pass the CDL knowledge and skills tests for the appropriate class of vehicle and any endorsements you need, such as the Passenger (P) endorsement for driving buses.
7. Provide proof of residency in Oregon and proof of insurance for any vehicles you operate.
8. Pay the appropriate fees for obtaining your CDL Bus license.
Note that additional requirements may apply depending on your specific situation, such as background checks and fingerprinting for hazardous materials endorsements. It's important to review the Oregon Commercial Driver Manual and consult with the DMV or an approved third-party tester before applying for your CDL Bus license.
1. Be at least 18 years of age or 21 years of age if you plan to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Hold a valid driver's license and have at least one year of driving experience.
3. Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence in the U.S.
4. Submit a completed CDL application form.
5. Pass a DOT physical exam and obtain a medical certificate, unless you are exempt.
6. Pass the CDL knowledge and skills tests for the appropriate class of vehicle and any endorsements you need, such as the Passenger (P) endorsement for driving buses.
7. Provide proof of residency in Oregon and proof of insurance for any vehicles you operate.
8. Pay the appropriate fees for obtaining your CDL Bus license.
Note that additional requirements may apply depending on your specific situation, such as background checks and fingerprinting for hazardous materials endorsements. It's important to review the Oregon Commercial Driver Manual and consult with the DMV or an approved third-party tester before applying for your CDL Bus license.
Yes, you may need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Oregon. Here are some requirements you should be aware of:
1. Pass a knowledge test specific to driving buses, which covers topics like loading and unloading passengers, driving a bus safely, and emergency procedures.
2. Pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
3. Have experience driving a bus or completing a commercial driver training program that includes bus-specific training.
4. Provide proof of medical certification indicating you are physically qualified to drive a bus.
5. Obtain a Passenger (P) endorsement on your CDL if you plan to transport passengers for compensation.
Note that the amount of experience or training required may vary depending on the specific type of bus you plan to drive and the type of operation you plan to work in (such as school bus, transit, or long-distance). It's important to check with the Oregon DMV or an approved third-party tester for specific requirements and recommendations before applying for your CDL Bus endorsement.
1. Pass a knowledge test specific to driving buses, which covers topics like loading and unloading passengers, driving a bus safely, and emergency procedures.
2. Pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
3. Have experience driving a bus or completing a commercial driver training program that includes bus-specific training.
4. Provide proof of medical certification indicating you are physically qualified to drive a bus.
5. Obtain a Passenger (P) endorsement on your CDL if you plan to transport passengers for compensation.
Note that the amount of experience or training required may vary depending on the specific type of bus you plan to drive and the type of operation you plan to work in (such as school bus, transit, or long-distance). It's important to check with the Oregon DMV or an approved third-party tester for specific requirements and recommendations before applying for your CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are different classes of CDL Bus licenses in Oregon, based on the weight and type of the vehicle you plan to drive. Here is an overview of the different classes:
1. Class B CDL - This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of 26,001 or more pounds, or a combination of vehicles with a total GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds (such as a bus towing a small trailer).
2. Class A CDL - This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, where the vehicle being towed has a GVWR of 10,001 or more pounds (such as a bus towing a large trailer).
3. Passenger (P) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to transport passengers for compensation in vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
4. School Bus (S) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to operate school buses designed to transport students.
5. Double/Triple (T) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to operate double or triple trailers.
6. Hazardous materials (H) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of operation you plan to work in, such as the Tanker (N) endorsement for transporting liquids in bulk or the Combination Tanker/HazMat (X) endorsement for transporting hazardous materials in combination with liquids in bulk.
It's important to obtain the appropriate class and endorsements for the type of bus operation you plan to work in and to check with the Oregon DMV or an approved third-party tester for specific requirements and recommendations.
1. Class B CDL - This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of 26,001 or more pounds, or a combination of vehicles with a total GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds (such as a bus towing a small trailer).
2. Class A CDL - This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, where the vehicle being towed has a GVWR of 10,001 or more pounds (such as a bus towing a large trailer).
3. Passenger (P) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to transport passengers for compensation in vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
4. School Bus (S) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to operate school buses designed to transport students.
5. Double/Triple (T) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to operate double or triple trailers.
6. Hazardous materials (H) endorsement - This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of operation you plan to work in, such as the Tanker (N) endorsement for transporting liquids in bulk or the Combination Tanker/HazMat (X) endorsement for transporting hazardous materials in combination with liquids in bulk.
It's important to obtain the appropriate class and endorsements for the type of bus operation you plan to work in and to check with the Oregon DMV or an approved third-party tester for specific requirements and recommendations.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Oregon. The vehicle you use for the test must meet certain requirements and be provided by an approved testing facility or employer.
The vehicle you use for the test must:
1. Be representative of the type of bus you plan to operate.
2. Have a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of at least 26,001 pounds.
3. Be equipped with air brakes if your CDL includes an air brake restriction.
4. Have a valid registration, insurance, and safety inspection.
5. Be in good condition, with all lights, signals, and safety equipment working properly.
You will also need to provide proof of insurance for the vehicle and pass a pre-trip inspection before starting the driving test.
It's important to check with the Oregon DMV or an approved third-party tester for specific requirements and recommendations before scheduling your CDL Bus driving test.
The vehicle you use for the test must:
1. Be representative of the type of bus you plan to operate.
2. Have a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of at least 26,001 pounds.
3. Be equipped with air brakes if your CDL includes an air brake restriction.
4. Have a valid registration, insurance, and safety inspection.
5. Be in good condition, with all lights, signals, and safety equipment working properly.
You will also need to provide proof of insurance for the vehicle and pass a pre-trip inspection before starting the driving test.
It's important to check with the Oregon DMV or an approved third-party tester for specific requirements and recommendations before scheduling your CDL Bus driving test.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in Oregon, you will need to demonstrate specific skills and maneuvers to show that you can safely operate a bus. Here are some examples of skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the test:
1. Pre-trip inspection - You will need to demonstrate that you can inspect the bus and its components for safety and operation.
2. Basic vehicle control - You will need to show that you can safely move the bus forward, backwards, and turn within a defined area.
3. On-road driving - You will need to demonstrate that you can safely drive the bus on public roads, including lane changes, turns, stops, and starts.
4. Railroad crossing - You will need to demonstrate how to safely approach a railroad crossing, stop the bus if necessary, and then proceed across the tracks when it's safe.
5. Emergency stop - You will need to show that you can bring the bus to a safe stop in an emergency situation.
6. Proper use of mirrors - You will need to demonstrate that you can use your mirrors properly while driving the bus.
7. Parallel parking - You may be asked to parallel park the bus between two cones or other markers.
It's important to practice these skills and maneuvers beforehand with a licensed CDL instructor or training program to increase your chances of passing the driving test.
1. Pre-trip inspection - You will need to demonstrate that you can inspect the bus and its components for safety and operation.
2. Basic vehicle control - You will need to show that you can safely move the bus forward, backwards, and turn within a defined area.
3. On-road driving - You will need to demonstrate that you can safely drive the bus on public roads, including lane changes, turns, stops, and starts.
4. Railroad crossing - You will need to demonstrate how to safely approach a railroad crossing, stop the bus if necessary, and then proceed across the tracks when it's safe.
5. Emergency stop - You will need to show that you can bring the bus to a safe stop in an emergency situation.
6. Proper use of mirrors - You will need to demonstrate that you can use your mirrors properly while driving the bus.
7. Parallel parking - You may be asked to parallel park the bus between two cones or other markers.
It's important to practice these skills and maneuvers beforehand with a licensed CDL instructor or training program to increase your chances of passing the driving test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Oregon. These requirements are in place to ensure that you are physically capable of safely operating a bus and do not pose a risk to yourself or others on the road. Here are some of the medical and physical requirements you will need to meet:
1. Vision - You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses. You must also have a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
2. Hearing - You must be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of 5 feet or more with or without a hearing aid.
3. Blood pressure - Your blood pressure must be below 160/100 without medication.
4. Diabetes - If you have diabetes, you may still be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement if you can demonstrate that you can manage your condition effectively.
5. Sleep apnea - If you have sleep apnea, you may still be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement if you can demonstrate that it is being treated and controlled effectively.
6. Other medical conditions - You may need to provide additional documentation or undergo further testing if you have certain medical conditions that could affect your ability to safely operate a bus.
It's important to note that these requirements may vary depending on your age, medical history, and other factors. It's best to consult with your healthcare provider and the Oregon DMV for specific information on the medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
1. Vision - You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses. You must also have a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
2. Hearing - You must be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of 5 feet or more with or without a hearing aid.
3. Blood pressure - Your blood pressure must be below 160/100 without medication.
4. Diabetes - If you have diabetes, you may still be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement if you can demonstrate that you can manage your condition effectively.
5. Sleep apnea - If you have sleep apnea, you may still be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement if you can demonstrate that it is being treated and controlled effectively.
6. Other medical conditions - You may need to provide additional documentation or undergo further testing if you have certain medical conditions that could affect your ability to safely operate a bus.
It's important to note that these requirements may vary depending on your age, medical history, and other factors. It's best to consult with your healthcare provider and the Oregon DMV for specific information on the medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in Oregon. A CDL Bus endorsement is required to operate a bus designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This is in accordance with federal regulations and is designed to ensure that drivers of buses carrying multiple passengers are properly trained and qualified to operate such vehicles safely.
It's important to note that there are exceptions to this rule. For example, you may be able to operate a bus without a CDL Bus endorsement if you are driving the bus for personal use, such as for a non-commercial church or social group. However, if you are operating the bus for any type of commercial purpose or transporting passengers for hire, you will need a CDL Bus endorsement.
If you are caught operating a bus without the proper endorsement, you could face fines, penalties, and even the suspension or revocation of your driver's license. It's always best to adhere to the laws and regulations related to CDL Bus endorsements to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
It's important to note that there are exceptions to this rule. For example, you may be able to operate a bus without a CDL Bus endorsement if you are driving the bus for personal use, such as for a non-commercial church or social group. However, if you are operating the bus for any type of commercial purpose or transporting passengers for hire, you will need a CDL Bus endorsement.
If you are caught operating a bus without the proper endorsement, you could face fines, penalties, and even the suspension or revocation of your driver's license. It's always best to adhere to the laws and regulations related to CDL Bus endorsements to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
In Oregon, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license. You will need to pass the knowledge and skills tests for the Bus endorsement, and meet all the other requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license, you will need to go to an Oregon DMV office and provide the following:
1. Your current Oregon CDL license
2. Proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States
3. Medical certification that meets federal standards
4. Payment of any required fees
Once you have provided these documents and passed the required tests, you will be issued a new CDL license with the Bus endorsement added.
It's important to note that if your current CDL license is within 12 months of its expiration date, you will be required to renew your CDL license at the same time that you add the Bus endorsement. If your current CDL license has already expired, you will need to renew it before adding the Bus endorsement.
Overall, adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license is a relatively straightforward process as long as you meet all of the requirements and pass the required tests.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license, you will need to go to an Oregon DMV office and provide the following:
1. Your current Oregon CDL license
2. Proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States
3. Medical certification that meets federal standards
4. Payment of any required fees
Once you have provided these documents and passed the required tests, you will be issued a new CDL license with the Bus endorsement added.
It's important to note that if your current CDL license is within 12 months of its expiration date, you will be required to renew your CDL license at the same time that you add the Bus endorsement. If your current CDL license has already expired, you will need to renew it before adding the Bus endorsement.
Overall, adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license is a relatively straightforward process as long as you meet all of the requirements and pass the required tests.
Yes, there are several restrictions and limitations that come with having a CDL Bus endorsement in Oregon. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of passengers and other drivers on the road.
Here are a few important restrictions to be aware of:
1. Passenger Limitations: Depending on the type of CDL Bus endorsement you have, there may be passenger limitations. For example, if you have a Class B CDL with a Bus endorsement, you can only operate a bus that carries 16 or more passengers, including the driver. If you have a Class A CDL with a Bus endorsement, you can operate any bus that requires a Bus endorsement.
2. Endorsement Requirements: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement for carrying passengers, you must also have a Passenger Endorsement (P) on your license. This endorsement requires an additional knowledge test to ensure that you understand how to safely operate a vehicle with passengers.
3. Medical Certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must meet specific medical certification requirements to ensure they are physically able to operate a bus safely.
4. Hours of Service: Bus drivers are subject to federal Hours of Service regulations that limit the amount of time they can drive and require mandatory rest periods.
5. Alcohol and Drug Testing: Bus drivers are subject to mandatory alcohol and drug testing as required by federal regulations.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and adhere to them at all times. Violating these restrictions could result in fines, penalties, or even the revocation of your CDL license.
Here are a few important restrictions to be aware of:
1. Passenger Limitations: Depending on the type of CDL Bus endorsement you have, there may be passenger limitations. For example, if you have a Class B CDL with a Bus endorsement, you can only operate a bus that carries 16 or more passengers, including the driver. If you have a Class A CDL with a Bus endorsement, you can operate any bus that requires a Bus endorsement.
2. Endorsement Requirements: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement for carrying passengers, you must also have a Passenger Endorsement (P) on your license. This endorsement requires an additional knowledge test to ensure that you understand how to safely operate a vehicle with passengers.
3. Medical Certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must meet specific medical certification requirements to ensure they are physically able to operate a bus safely.
4. Hours of Service: Bus drivers are subject to federal Hours of Service regulations that limit the amount of time they can drive and require mandatory rest periods.
5. Alcohol and Drug Testing: Bus drivers are subject to mandatory alcohol and drug testing as required by federal regulations.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and adhere to them at all times. Violating these restrictions could result in fines, penalties, or even the revocation of your CDL license.
