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. Each question has four answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 16 questions correctly. Test questions come from the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook. 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. A properly adjusted flat mirror should allow the driver to see:
Explanation
Properly adjusted flat mirrors on a school bus should allow the driver to see 200 feet behind the bus, the base of each rear wheel, and the sides of the bus.
2. Your vehicle's final position should be:
Explanation
You should finish each exercise with your vehicle in the exact position described by the examiner. You can be penalized for failing to complete an exercise exactly in the manner described by the examiner, potentially resulting in failure of the basic control skills test.
3. 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.
4. If asked to sight-side back your vehicle into an alley, you should first:
Explanation
If you are asked to alley dock, you should first pull past the alley and stop your vehicle in a position that is parallel to the outer boundary. From there, you should back your vehicle entirely into the alley parking area. Your vehicle should be parked in a straight position within the boundaries of the parking space.
5. When asked to make a lane change during the skills test, you should:
Explanation
You will be asked to make multiple lane changes during the driving skills test. Before changing lanes, you should make the necessary traffic checks and use proper signals. Change lanes smoothly when you can do so safely.
6. In the event of a bus evacuation, students should be led at least ____ away from the road.
Explanation
If it is necessary to evacuate a school bus, students should be led by the driver in the direction of oncoming traffic to a safe location that is at least 100 feet off the road. This will help to ensure that they are not hit by flying debris if another vehicle hits the bus.
7. After students unload at a school, the driver:
Explanation
After students have exited a bus at a school, the driver should walk through the bus to check for any remaining students who are hiding or sleeping. Drivers should also look out for items that students may have left behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Texas, you must follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Texas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the written and driving exams for a Class A or B CDL.
2. Complete the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) CDL Skills Test in a bus that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement.
3. Pass the Passenger Transport endorsement knowledge test. You can study the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Handbook to prepare for this test.
4. Schedule and pass the Passenger Transport endorsement skills test, which will test your ability to operate a bus with passengers safely.
5. Submit your CDL application along with any required fees and documentation to the Texas DPS.
6. Once your application is approved, you will receive your CDL with the Bus and Passenger Transport endorsements.
Note that there may be additional requirements depending on your driving record and any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive a bus safely. It's important to check with the Texas DPS or a licensed CDL training school for more information.
1. Obtain a Texas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the written and driving exams for a Class A or B CDL.
2. Complete the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) CDL Skills Test in a bus that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement.
3. Pass the Passenger Transport endorsement knowledge test. You can study the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Handbook to prepare for this test.
4. Schedule and pass the Passenger Transport endorsement skills test, which will test your ability to operate a bus with passengers safely.
5. Submit your CDL application along with any required fees and documentation to the Texas DPS.
6. Once your application is approved, you will receive your CDL with the Bus and Passenger Transport endorsements.
Note that there may be additional requirements depending on your driving record and any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive a bus safely. It's important to check with the Texas DPS or a licensed CDL training school for more information.
The requirements to get a CDL Bus license in Texas are as follows:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus license in Texas, but you will be restricted to driving within the state. If you plan to operate a bus across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Driver's License: You must have a valid Texas driver's license.
3. Medical Certification: You must provide proof of medical certification that shows you meet the physical and medical requirements for operating a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Knowledge Tests: You must pass the written knowledge tests for the general CDL and the Passenger Transport endorsement.
5. Skills Test: You must pass a skills test in a bus that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement.
6. Background Check: You will need to pass a background check, including a criminal history check and driving record check.
7. Training: While not required, it is highly recommended that you complete a CDL training program before taking your CDL skills test.
Note that these are general requirements and additional requirements may apply depending on your specific situation or the type of bus you plan to operate. It's important to check with the Texas Department of Public Safety or a licensed CDL training school for more information.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus license in Texas, but you will be restricted to driving within the state. If you plan to operate a bus across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Driver's License: You must have a valid Texas driver's license.
3. Medical Certification: You must provide proof of medical certification that shows you meet the physical and medical requirements for operating a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Knowledge Tests: You must pass the written knowledge tests for the general CDL and the Passenger Transport endorsement.
5. Skills Test: You must pass a skills test in a bus that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement.
6. Background Check: You will need to pass a background check, including a criminal history check and driving record check.
7. Training: While not required, it is highly recommended that you complete a CDL training program before taking your CDL skills test.
Note that these are general requirements and additional requirements may apply depending on your specific situation or the type of bus you plan to operate. It's important to check with the Texas Department of Public Safety or a licensed CDL training school for more information.
Yes, you may need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Texas. Here are some considerations:
1. Training: While not required, it is highly recommended that you complete a CDL training program before taking your CDL skills test. Some employers require or prefer that you have completed a training program, and it can also help you prepare for the written and skills tests.
2. Driving Experience: You must have experience driving a bus before taking the CDL skills test. The Texas Department of Public Safety requires that you have at least 20 hours of behind-the-wheel experience operating a bus with passengers before taking the Passenger Transport endorsement skills test.
3. Medical Certification: You must provide proof of medical certification that shows you meet the physical and medical requirements for operating a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Background Check: You will need to pass a background check, including a criminal history check and driving record check.
Note that these are general requirements and additional requirements may apply depending on your specific situation or the type of bus you plan to operate. You should check with the Texas Department of Public Safety or a licensed CDL training school for more information on any specific requirements or recommendations.
1. Training: While not required, it is highly recommended that you complete a CDL training program before taking your CDL skills test. Some employers require or prefer that you have completed a training program, and it can also help you prepare for the written and skills tests.
2. Driving Experience: You must have experience driving a bus before taking the CDL skills test. The Texas Department of Public Safety requires that you have at least 20 hours of behind-the-wheel experience operating a bus with passengers before taking the Passenger Transport endorsement skills test.
3. Medical Certification: You must provide proof of medical certification that shows you meet the physical and medical requirements for operating a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Background Check: You will need to pass a background check, including a criminal history check and driving record check.
Note that these are general requirements and additional requirements may apply depending on your specific situation or the type of bus you plan to operate. You should check with the Texas Department of Public Safety or a licensed CDL training school for more information on any specific requirements or recommendations.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Texas. The three classes of CDLs are Class A, Class B, and Class C. The type of CDL Bus license you need will depend on the size and weight of the vehicle you plan to drive and the number of passengers you plan to transport.
1. Class A CDL: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle is heavier than 10,000 pounds. This license is required if you plan to operate a bus that is towing another vehicle.
2. Class B CDL: This license 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 GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more (the towed vehicle must weigh less than 10,000 pounds). This license is required if you plan to operate a bus that does not have a trailer.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of either Class A or Class B, but that are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
Additionally, there are different types of endorsements that you may need depending on the type of bus you plan to operate. For example:
1. Passenger Transport endorsement: You must obtain this endorsement if you plan to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) in a commercial motor vehicle.
2. School Bus endorsement: You must obtain this endorsement if you plan to operate a school bus that transports students to and from school or school-related activities.
3. Hazardous Materials endorsement: You must obtain this endorsement if you plan to transport hazardous materials in your commercial motor vehicle.
Note that these are general guidelines, and there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your specific situation or the type of bus you plan to operate. You should check with the Texas Department of Public Safety or a licensed CDL training school for more information.
1. Class A CDL: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle is heavier than 10,000 pounds. This license is required if you plan to operate a bus that is towing another vehicle.
2. Class B CDL: This license 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 GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more (the towed vehicle must weigh less than 10,000 pounds). This license is required if you plan to operate a bus that does not have a trailer.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of either Class A or Class B, but that are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
Additionally, there are different types of endorsements that you may need depending on the type of bus you plan to operate. For example:
1. Passenger Transport endorsement: You must obtain this endorsement if you plan to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) in a commercial motor vehicle.
2. School Bus endorsement: You must obtain this endorsement if you plan to operate a school bus that transports students to and from school or school-related activities.
3. Hazardous Materials endorsement: You must obtain this endorsement if you plan to transport hazardous materials in your commercial motor vehicle.
Note that these are general guidelines, and there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your specific situation or the type of bus you plan to operate. You should check with the Texas Department of Public Safety or a licensed CDL training school for more information.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Texas. The Texas Department of Public Safety requires that you use a vehicle that meets certain requirements for the test, including:
1. The vehicle must be the same type of vehicle that you plan to operate with your CDL, such as a bus.
2. The vehicle must be in safe operating condition and meet all state and federal requirements.
3. The vehicle must have a valid registration and insurance.
4. The vehicle must have a seating capacity that is appropriate for the type of license you are seeking.
5. The vehicle must have a valid inspection sticker.
Additionally, the driving test vehicle must be furnished by an authorized driving school or training facility. You cannot use your personal vehicle for the driving test, even if it meets all of the above requirements.
It's important to note that some CDL training schools may allow you to use their vehicles for the driving test, even if you did not complete your training with them. You should check with your training school or a licensed CDL training facility for more information on using a vehicle for the driving test.
1. The vehicle must be the same type of vehicle that you plan to operate with your CDL, such as a bus.
2. The vehicle must be in safe operating condition and meet all state and federal requirements.
3. The vehicle must have a valid registration and insurance.
4. The vehicle must have a seating capacity that is appropriate for the type of license you are seeking.
5. The vehicle must have a valid inspection sticker.
Additionally, the driving test vehicle must be furnished by an authorized driving school or training facility. You cannot use your personal vehicle for the driving test, even if it meets all of the above requirements.
It's important to note that some CDL training schools may allow you to use their vehicles for the driving test, even if you did not complete your training with them. You should check with your training school or a licensed CDL training facility for more information on using a vehicle for the driving test.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in Texas, you will be required to demonstrate specific skills and maneuvers to show that you are capable of operating a commercial motor vehicle safely. The skills and maneuvers you will need to demonstrate include the following:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, including checking the brakes, steering, tires, lights, and other components. You will need to show the examiner that you know what to look for and how to identify any defects or problems.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, including backing up, turning at intersections, and maneuvering through tight spaces.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on public roads and highways, including merging onto highways, changing lanes, and navigating through traffic.
4. Special skills: You may be required to demonstrate additional special skills depending on the type of CDL license and endorsements you are seeking. For example, if you are seeking a Passenger Transport endorsement, you may be required to demonstrate your ability to load and unload passengers safely.
During the driving test, the examiner will be evaluating your ability to operate the vehicle safely and efficiently. You will need to follow all traffic laws and regulations and demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills while driving. It's important to practice these skills extensively before taking the driving test.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, including checking the brakes, steering, tires, lights, and other components. You will need to show the examiner that you know what to look for and how to identify any defects or problems.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, including backing up, turning at intersections, and maneuvering through tight spaces.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on public roads and highways, including merging onto highways, changing lanes, and navigating through traffic.
4. Special skills: You may be required to demonstrate additional special skills depending on the type of CDL license and endorsements you are seeking. For example, if you are seeking a Passenger Transport endorsement, you may be required to demonstrate your ability to load and unload passengers safely.
During the driving test, the examiner will be evaluating your ability to operate the vehicle safely and efficiently. You will need to follow all traffic laws and regulations and demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills while driving. It's important to practice these skills extensively before taking the driving test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements that must be met in order to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Texas. These requirements are in place to ensure that commercial drivers are physically able to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the medical and physical qualifications for commercial drivers. To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Vision: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without correction. You must also have a horizontal 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 at least 5 feet with or without hearing aids.
3. Blood pressure: Your blood pressure must be below 160/100. If your blood pressure is between 140/90 and 159/99, you may be issued a temporary medical certificate for up to one year if your blood pressure is controlled through medication.
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you may still qualify for a CDL Bus endorsement if your diabetes is well-controlled through diet or medication.
5. Other medical conditions: You may be disqualified from obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement if you have certain medical conditions, such as seizures, sleep apnea, or certain heart conditions.
In addition to meeting these medical and physical requirements, you will also need to pass a DOT physical exam administered by a certified medical examiner before obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the medical and physical qualifications for commercial drivers. To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Vision: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without correction. You must also have a horizontal 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 at least 5 feet with or without hearing aids.
3. Blood pressure: Your blood pressure must be below 160/100. If your blood pressure is between 140/90 and 159/99, you may be issued a temporary medical certificate for up to one year if your blood pressure is controlled through medication.
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you may still qualify for a CDL Bus endorsement if your diabetes is well-controlled through diet or medication.
5. Other medical conditions: You may be disqualified from obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement if you have certain medical conditions, such as seizures, sleep apnea, or certain heart conditions.
In addition to meeting these medical and physical requirements, you will also need to pass a DOT physical exam administered by a certified medical examiner before obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers for hire without a CDL Bus endorsement in Texas. A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with a Passenger Transport (P) endorsement is required to operate a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, for compensation.
Without a CDL Bus endorsement, you are restricted to driving a regular passenger vehicle such as a car or van for personal use. If you are caught operating a commercial motor vehicle without the proper CDL endorsement, you could face fines and other penalties, as well as risking the safety of your passengers and other motorists on the road.
It's important to note that there are also specific requirements for obtaining a Passenger Transport endorsement, including passing a written exam, driving skills test in a passenger vehicle, and meeting medical and physical qualifications.
Without a CDL Bus endorsement, you are restricted to driving a regular passenger vehicle such as a car or van for personal use. If you are caught operating a commercial motor vehicle without the proper CDL endorsement, you could face fines and other penalties, as well as risking the safety of your passengers and other motorists on the road.
It's important to note that there are also specific requirements for obtaining a Passenger Transport endorsement, including passing a written exam, driving skills test in a passenger vehicle, and meeting medical and physical qualifications.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Texas. You do not need to apply for a new license unless you need to renew your license or make other changes to your CDL.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to pass the written exam for the Passenger Transport (P) endorsement, as well as a driving skills test in a passenger vehicle. You will also need to meet the medical and physical qualifications required for commercial drivers.
To apply for the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office and provide the necessary documentation, including your current CDL license and proof of passing the Passenger Transport written exam. You may also need to pay a fee for adding the endorsement.
It's important to note that if you have any restrictions or endorsements on your current CDL license, such as air brakes or hazardous materials, these restrictions or endorsements will still apply when you add the CDL Bus endorsement.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to pass the written exam for the Passenger Transport (P) endorsement, as well as a driving skills test in a passenger vehicle. You will also need to meet the medical and physical qualifications required for commercial drivers.
To apply for the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office and provide the necessary documentation, including your current CDL license and proof of passing the Passenger Transport written exam. You may also need to pay a fee for adding the endorsement.
It's important to note that if you have any restrictions or endorsements on your current CDL license, such as air brakes or hazardous materials, these restrictions or endorsements will still apply when you add the CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations that apply to drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Texas.
First, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to the same traffic laws and regulations as all other drivers on the road. However, they must also comply with additional federal and state regulations that apply specifically to commercial drivers.
Second, there are limitations on the number of hours a driver with a CDL Bus endorsement can drive in a day and week. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets these limits to prevent driver fatigue and promote safety on the road. Drivers are required to keep a log of their driving hours to ensure compliance with these rules.
Third, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as part of the FMCSA's drug and alcohol testing program. This is to ensure that commercial drivers are not operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Finally, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must keep their license current and meet all renewal requirements, including passing regular medical exams and completing any required training or continuing education courses.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to stay up-to-date on all regulations and requirements that apply to their license.
First, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to the same traffic laws and regulations as all other drivers on the road. However, they must also comply with additional federal and state regulations that apply specifically to commercial drivers.
Second, there are limitations on the number of hours a driver with a CDL Bus endorsement can drive in a day and week. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets these limits to prevent driver fatigue and promote safety on the road. Drivers are required to keep a log of their driving hours to ensure compliance with these rules.
Third, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as part of the FMCSA's drug and alcohol testing program. This is to ensure that commercial drivers are not operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Finally, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must keep their license current and meet all renewal requirements, including passing regular medical exams and completing any required training or continuing education courses.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to stay up-to-date on all regulations and requirements that apply to their license.
