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.. Read More

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 South Carolina Commercial Driver License 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. In a school bus, where is the overhead inside rearview mirror located?

Explanation
On a school bus, the overhead inside rearview mirror is mounted directly above the windshield on the driver’s side of the bus. Its purpose is to allow the driver to monitor passenger activity inside the bus.

2. During the driving test, when encountering a railroad crossing, you should:

Explanation
During the on-road driving test, do not stop, change gears, pass another vehicle, or change lanes while any part of your vehicle is in a railroad crossing.

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. When students board a school bus, the driver should:

Explanation
While students are boarding a school bus, the driver should supervise the loading while watching all mirrors for any students running to catch the bus.

5. If taking the driving test and the route does not include a railroad crossing, you:

Explanation
If your on-road driving test route does not include a railroad crossing, you may be asked to explain and demonstrate the proper railroad crossing procedures to the examiner at a simulated location.

6. If a bus stalls on a railroad track, the driver should:

Explanation
If a school bus becomes stalled or trapped on railroad tracks, the driver should immediately evacuate everyone from the bus. To best avoid flying debris from the bus being struck by a train, the students should be led far away from the bus at an angle that is in the direction of any oncoming train.

7. Properly adjusted mirrors on a school bus allow the driver to see ____ behind the bus.

Explanation
Proper mirror adjustment is vital to the safe operation of a school bus. A bus's flat mirrors should be adjusted so the driver is able to see 200 feet, or four bus lengths, behind the bus.

Frequently Asked Questions

To obtain a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus endorsement in South Carolina, you need to follow these steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years of age, hold a valid South Carolina driver's license, and have a clean driving record.

2. Obtain a CDL learner's permit: You need to pass the CDL knowledge test to obtain a learner's permit. You can take the test at any South Carolina DMV branch.

3. Complete CDL Bus endorsement training: You must complete specialized training for the Bus endorsement, which includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training.

4. Pass the CDL skills test: Once you have completed the required training, you need to pass the CDL skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and road test.

5. Submit required documents: You must provide proper identification documents, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States.

6. Pay required fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, including application and testing fees.

7. Get your CDL Bus endorsement: After you have passed all tests and submitted the required documents and fees, you will receive your new South Carolina CDL with Bus endorsement.

Note that additional medical requirements may apply for drivers of commercial vehicles, including buses. It is recommended that you consult with your physician before applying for a CDL Bus endorsement.

The requirements to get a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus license in South Carolina are as follows:

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state and 21 years old to drive across state lines.

2. Valid Driver's License: You must hold a valid South Carolina driver's license.

3. Medical Certification: You must have a valid DOT medical certificate, which certifies that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.

4. CDL Learner's Permit: You must obtain a CDL learner's permit by passing a written knowledge test related to the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.

5. CDL Skills Test: You must pass a three-part skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving test.

6. CDL Endorsements: You may be required to obtain additional endorsements, such as the Passenger (P) endorsement for carrying passengers or the School Bus (S) endorsement for driving a school bus.

7. Background Check: You will need to pass a background check and provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States.

8. Fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL, including application and testing fees.

It is important to note that obtaining a CDL Bus license requires specialized training and experience, as operating a bus is different from driving a standard passenger vehicle. It is recommended that you receive proper training before attempting to obtain your CDL Bus license.

Yes, specific training and experience are required to obtain a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus endorsement in South Carolina. The requirements include:

1. Completion of a CDL Bus training program: You must complete a CDL Bus training program that has been approved by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The program should include both classroom instruction and hands-on training.

2. Passing a written knowledge test: You must pass a written knowledge test that covers topics related to safely operating a bus, such as passenger safety, pre-trip inspections, and proper loading and unloading procedures.

3. Passing a skills test: You must pass a skills test that evaluates your ability to safely operate a bus. The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.

4. Obtaining the Passenger (P) endorsement: To operate a bus with passengers, you will need to obtain the Passenger (P) endorsement in addition to your CDL.

5. Meeting medical requirements: Bus drivers are subject to more stringent medical requirements than regular drivers. You will need to provide proof of a valid DOT medical certificate, which certifies that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.

It is important to note that obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement requires specialized training and experience, as operating a bus is different from driving a standard passenger vehicle. It is recommended that you receive proper training before attempting to obtain your CDL Bus endorsement.

Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus licenses in South Carolina, based on the type and weight of the bus being operated. The three classes of CDLs are:

1. Class B: This allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of less than 26,001 pounds. This includes buses designed to transport more than 15 passengers.

2. Class C: This allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that does not meet the criteria for Class A or B and is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.

3. Class A: This allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds. This includes buses designed to transport more than 15 passengers.

It is important to note that additional endorsements may be required for certain types of bus operations, such as the Passenger (P) endorsement for carrying passengers and the School Bus (S) endorsement for driving a school bus.

No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus driving test in South Carolina. You must use a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that is representative of the type of bus you are seeking to operate. The CMV must be properly licensed, registered, and insured.

In addition to the vehicle requirements, you must also have a qualified CDL examiner to administer the test. The examiner must be authorized by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and meet certain training and experience requirements.

It is important to note that you must also meet all other CDL Bus endorsement requirements before taking the driving test, such as completing a CDL Bus training program, passing a written knowledge test, and obtaining the necessary endorsements.

Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus driving test in South Carolina. These include:

1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to perform a complete inspection of the bus before starting the driving portion of the test. This includes checking all fluid levels, brakes, lights, tires, and other important safety features.

2. Basic vehicle control: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to control the bus in tight spaces, such as backing up and turning in a confined area.

3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to drive safely and effectively on public roads. This includes obeying traffic laws and signals, maintaining proper speed and following distance, merging onto highways, and making lane changes.

4. Emergency maneuvers: You may be asked to perform emergency maneuvers such as sudden stops, evasive maneuvers, or avoidance techniques.

5. Passenger loading/unloading: If you are seeking a Passenger (P) endorsement, you may also be asked to demonstrate your ability to safely load and unload passengers from the bus.

It is important to note that the specific requirements and scoring criteria for the CDL Bus driving test may vary based on the type of bus being operated and other factors. Be sure to review the South Carolina Commercial Driver's License Manual and seek guidance from a qualified CDL examiner or training program for more detailed information on the driving test requirements.

Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus endorsement in South Carolina. In addition to meeting the general CDL requirements, you must also meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical standards to ensure that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.

To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in South Carolina, you must pass a medical exam performed by a licensed medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The exam will assess your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health to ensure that you are physically capable of operating a commercial bus safely.

You will also need to meet specific vision requirements, including having a minimum of 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses) and a horizontal field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye. Color blindness is permitted as long as it does not interfere with your ability to distinguish traffic signals.

It is important to note that these medical and physical requirements apply to all CDL endorsements, not just the CDL Bus endorsement. Be sure to consult the South Carolina Commercial Driver's License Manual and speak with a qualified medical examiner or training program for more detailed information on the specific requirements and exam process.

No, you cannot transport passengers for hire without a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus endorsement in South Carolina. The CDL Bus endorsement is required for anyone who operates a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or any vehicle transporting hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding.

To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must also meet the medical and physical requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

It is important to note that driving a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsement may result in fines, penalties, and even suspension or revocation of your driver's license. Additionally, operating a commercial bus without proper training and certification can put passengers at risk of injury or harm.

If you are unsure whether you require a CDL Bus endorsement for your specific situation, it is best to consult the South Carolina Commercial Driver's License Manual or speak with a qualified CDL examiner or training program for guidance and clarification.

You can add the CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in South Carolina without applying for a new license. To add the endorsement, you must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.

You will also need to meet the medical and physical requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Once you have passed the required tests and provided proof of meeting the medical requirements, your CDL license will be updated to include the Bus endorsement.

It is important to note that adding a CDL Bus endorsement may require additional training beyond what is required for your current CDL license. You may need to complete a training program that specifically covers passenger transport and safety.

If you have questions or concerns about adding the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license, it is best to consult the South Carolina Commercial Driver's License Manual or speak with a qualified CDL examiner or training program for guidance and clarification.

Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus endorsement in South Carolina. Some of the common restrictions and limitations include:

1. Passenger limit: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to transporting a maximum of 16 or more passengers (including the driver).

2. Endorsement codes: CDL Bus endorsements may have different codes depending on the specific vehicle being operated and the type of passenger transport. These codes identify the specific type of bus and passenger transport that a driver is authorized to operate.

3. Medical certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must meet the medical and physical requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to maintain their endorsement. Drivers must have their medical certification renewed every two years, or more frequently if required due to certain medical conditions.

4. Training and certification: CDL Bus drivers are required to complete additional training beyond what is required for a standard CDL license. They must also maintain their training certification to continue operating commercial buses legally.

5. Hours of service: Like other commercial drivers, CDL Bus drivers are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations that limit the amount of time they can spend driving each day and each week.

It is important to note that violating any of these restrictions or limitations can result in fines, penalties, and even suspension or revocation of your CDL license. If you have questions or concerns about the specific restrictions or limitations associated with your CDL Bus endorsement, it is best to consult the South Carolina Commercial Driver's License Manual or speak with a qualified CDL examiner or training program for guidance and clarification.
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