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 possible answer choices. Test questions come from the Virginia 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. During the driving test, the examiner will be scoring you on:
Explanation
During the on-road driving test, the examiner will be score you on specific driving maneuvers as well as on your general driving behavior. You must drive in a safe and responsible manner; obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws; and not cause an accident or commit a moving violation.
2. The overhead rearview mirror is 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. This mirror should be used to monitor students inside the bus.
3. When students are being picked up by a school bus:
Explanation
School bus drivers may only pick up students at official stops designated by authorized school officials.
4. If you must drive in reverse at a student pick-up point, you should:
Explanation
Backing in a school bus is strongly discouraged and should be done only if there is no other safe way to move the vehicle. If you must drive in reverse at a student pick-up point, you should wait until all students have first loaded the bus.
5. Before evacuating a bus in response to a hazard, a driver should:
Explanation
If time permits, before deciding to evacuate a school bus, the driver should contact their dispatcher to explain the situation. The decision to evacuate must be a timely one.
6. If your bus has a manual transmission, what should you never do when crossing railroad tracks?
Explanation
Do not shift gears while crossing railroad tracks. Your vehicle could stall and get stuck in the crossing.
7. At a passive railroad crossing, the decision to proceed:
Explanation
Railroad crossings that do not have any kind of traffic control device are known as passive crossings. The decision to proceed across tracks at a passive crossing is entirely up to the driver.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Virginia, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Virginia CDL: To obtain a CDL in Virginia, you must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state and at least 21 years old to drive across state lines. You'll need to pass a written knowledge test and a skills test in a commercial motor vehicle.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements for the Bus endorsement: To be eligible to apply for a Bus endorsement, you must have a valid Virginia CDL and be able to pass a knowledge test and skills test for the Bus endorsement.
3. Study for the Bus endorsement knowledge test: Study the Virginia Commercial Driver's Manual, which covers the information you need to know for the Bus endorsement. You can obtain a copy of the manual from any Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
4. Take and pass the Bus endorsement knowledge test: Visit any Virginia DMV office to take the knowledge test. You'll need to bring your current CDL and pay the required fee.
5. Schedule and pass the skills test: After passing the knowledge test, you'll need to schedule and pass a skills test in a vehicle that requires a Class B or Class A CDL with Bus endorsement. The skills test will assess your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
6. Pay any required fees: Once you have passed both tests, pay any required fees for your new CDL with Bus endorsement.
Note: If you're already licensed with a Class A or B CDL, you may only need an additional road skills test if you are adding endorsements such as bus, passenger or air brakes.
1. Obtain a Virginia CDL: To obtain a CDL in Virginia, you must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state and at least 21 years old to drive across state lines. You'll need to pass a written knowledge test and a skills test in a commercial motor vehicle.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements for the Bus endorsement: To be eligible to apply for a Bus endorsement, you must have a valid Virginia CDL and be able to pass a knowledge test and skills test for the Bus endorsement.
3. Study for the Bus endorsement knowledge test: Study the Virginia Commercial Driver's Manual, which covers the information you need to know for the Bus endorsement. You can obtain a copy of the manual from any Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
4. Take and pass the Bus endorsement knowledge test: Visit any Virginia DMV office to take the knowledge test. You'll need to bring your current CDL and pay the required fee.
5. Schedule and pass the skills test: After passing the knowledge test, you'll need to schedule and pass a skills test in a vehicle that requires a Class B or Class A CDL with Bus endorsement. The skills test will assess your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
6. Pay any required fees: Once you have passed both tests, pay any required fees for your new CDL with Bus endorsement.
Note: If you're already licensed with a Class A or B CDL, you may only need an additional road skills test if you are adding endorsements such as bus, passenger or air brakes.
To get a CDL Bus license in Virginia, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years of age: You must be at least 18 years of age to drive a commercial motor vehicle within Virginia and at least 21 years of age to drive a commercial motor vehicle across state lines.
2. Have a valid Virginia driver's license: You must have a valid Virginia driver's license.
3. Obtain a learner's permit: You must obtain a learner's permit by passing the CDL knowledge tests for general knowledge and passenger transport, if applicable.
4. Pass a CDL skills test: You must pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Class B or Class A CDL with Bus endorsement. The skills test will assess your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
5. Meet the medical requirements: You must meet the medical requirements by providing proof of good physical health by passing a medical exam and submitting the Medical Examination Report (Form MCSA-5875) and Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) to the DMV.
6. Provide proof of legal presence in the United States: You must provide proof of legal presence in the United States, such as a birth certificate or passport.
7. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check and provide your Social Security number.
8. Pay any required fees: You will need to pay any required fees for your CDL Bus license, including the application fee, knowledge test fee, and skills test fee.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate, such as air brakes or passenger transport.
1. Be at least 18 years of age: You must be at least 18 years of age to drive a commercial motor vehicle within Virginia and at least 21 years of age to drive a commercial motor vehicle across state lines.
2. Have a valid Virginia driver's license: You must have a valid Virginia driver's license.
3. Obtain a learner's permit: You must obtain a learner's permit by passing the CDL knowledge tests for general knowledge and passenger transport, if applicable.
4. Pass a CDL skills test: You must pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Class B or Class A CDL with Bus endorsement. The skills test will assess your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
5. Meet the medical requirements: You must meet the medical requirements by providing proof of good physical health by passing a medical exam and submitting the Medical Examination Report (Form MCSA-5875) and Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) to the DMV.
6. Provide proof of legal presence in the United States: You must provide proof of legal presence in the United States, such as a birth certificate or passport.
7. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check and provide your Social Security number.
8. Pay any required fees: You will need to pay any required fees for your CDL Bus license, including the application fee, knowledge test fee, and skills test fee.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate, such as air brakes or passenger transport.
Yes, you need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has set minimum training requirements for those seeking a CDL Bus endorsement. These requirements include:
1. 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training: You must complete at least 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training, which must include at least 10 hours of driving on a practice range and at least 10 hours of driving on public roads.
2. Driver proficiency: You must demonstrate driver proficiency in various areas, including pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic controls, and on-road driving.
3. Passenger transport: If you plan to transport passengers, you must also complete additional training in areas such as boarding and alighting passengers, safe operation of the vehicle in various traffic conditions, and emergency evacuation procedures.
It's important to note that these are minimum requirements set by the FMCSA. Some employers may require additional training or experience beyond these requirements. Additionally, it's always best to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
1. 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training: You must complete at least 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training, which must include at least 10 hours of driving on a practice range and at least 10 hours of driving on public roads.
2. Driver proficiency: You must demonstrate driver proficiency in various areas, including pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic controls, and on-road driving.
3. Passenger transport: If you plan to transport passengers, you must also complete additional training in areas such as boarding and alighting passengers, safe operation of the vehicle in various traffic conditions, and emergency evacuation procedures.
It's important to note that these are minimum requirements set by the FMCSA. Some employers may require additional training or experience beyond these requirements. Additionally, it's always best to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Virginia. The classes are determined by the weight of the vehicle and the type of cargo or passengers being transported.
In Virginia, there are three classes of CDLs:
1. Class A CDL: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed has a weight of more than 10,000 pounds. This class also allows you to operate Class B and Class C vehicles.
2. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds. This class also allows you to operate Class C vehicles.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the criteria for either Class A or Class B. This class is typically used for passenger transport and allows you to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
In addition to these classes, there are also endorsements that may be required based on the type of cargo or passengers being transported. For example, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement. If you plan to transport passengers, you will need a Passenger (P) endorsement.
In Virginia, there are three classes of CDLs:
1. Class A CDL: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed has a weight of more than 10,000 pounds. This class also allows you to operate Class B and Class C vehicles.
2. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds. This class also allows you to operate Class C vehicles.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the criteria for either Class A or Class B. This class is typically used for passenger transport and allows you to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
In addition to these classes, there are also endorsements that may be required based on the type of cargo or passengers being transported. For example, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement. If you plan to transport passengers, you will need a Passenger (P) endorsement.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires that you provide a vehicle that meets the specifications for the type of CDL license you are seeking.
For the CDL Bus driving test, you must provide a vehicle that is representative of the type of bus you plan to operate. The vehicle must meet certain requirements, including size, weight, and equipment specifications. You will need to provide a valid registration and insurance card for the vehicle, as well as proof of inspection.
It is important to note that the vehicle you provide for the driving test must also be in good working order and meet all safety requirements. The DMV examiner will inspect the vehicle before the driving test to ensure that it meets all necessary requirements.
If you do not own a suitable vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test, you may be able to rent one from a commercial driver training school or other provider. The DMV may also be able to provide information on local rental options.
For the CDL Bus driving test, you must provide a vehicle that is representative of the type of bus you plan to operate. The vehicle must meet certain requirements, including size, weight, and equipment specifications. You will need to provide a valid registration and insurance card for the vehicle, as well as proof of inspection.
It is important to note that the vehicle you provide for the driving test must also be in good working order and meet all safety requirements. The DMV examiner will inspect the vehicle before the driving test to ensure that it meets all necessary requirements.
If you do not own a suitable vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test, you may be able to rent one from a commercial driver training school or other provider. The DMV may also be able to provide information on local rental options.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Virginia. The test is designed to evaluate your ability to safely operate a bus on the road and to handle common driving situations.
During the driving test, you can expect to be evaluated on your ability to perform the following maneuvers:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of the bus to ensure that all systems and components are in working order.
2. Basic controls: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the bus in a variety of situations, including backing up, turning, and parking.
3. On-road driving: You will be evaluated on your ability to safely operate the bus on the road, including lane changes, intersections, and traffic signals.
4. Special maneuvers: You may also be required to demonstrate additional skills or maneuvers, such as an alley dock or a right-hand turn.
During the driving test, it is important to follow all traffic laws and regulations and to demonstrate safe driving practices at all times. The examiner will be evaluating your ability to handle the bus in a safe and controlled manner, so it is important to remain calm and focused throughout the test.
During the driving test, you can expect to be evaluated on your ability to perform the following maneuvers:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of the bus to ensure that all systems and components are in working order.
2. Basic controls: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the bus in a variety of situations, including backing up, turning, and parking.
3. On-road driving: You will be evaluated on your ability to safely operate the bus on the road, including lane changes, intersections, and traffic signals.
4. Special maneuvers: You may also be required to demonstrate additional skills or maneuvers, such as an alley dock or a right-hand turn.
During the driving test, it is important to follow all traffic laws and regulations and to demonstrate safe driving practices at all times. The examiner will be evaluating your ability to handle the bus in a safe and controlled manner, so it is important to remain calm and focused throughout the test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Virginia. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established medical and physical qualification standards that all CDL holders must meet to ensure that they are capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. You must be at least 21 years of age.
2. You must hold a valid non-commercial driver's license.
3. You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner.
4. You must not have any disqualifying medical conditions, such as a history of seizures, diabetes that requires insulin, or certain heart conditions.
5. You must have good hearing and vision, with or without corrective lenses.
6. You must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while operating a commercial vehicle.
It is important to note that these requirements apply to all CDL holders, not just those seeking a Bus endorsement. Additionally, CDL holders are required to undergo regular DOT physical exams to maintain their commercial driving privileges.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. You must be at least 21 years of age.
2. You must hold a valid non-commercial driver's license.
3. You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner.
4. You must not have any disqualifying medical conditions, such as a history of seizures, diabetes that requires insulin, or certain heart conditions.
5. You must have good hearing and vision, with or without corrective lenses.
6. You must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while operating a commercial vehicle.
It is important to note that these requirements apply to all CDL holders, not just those seeking a Bus endorsement. Additionally, CDL holders are required to undergo regular DOT physical exams to maintain their commercial driving privileges.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement if you are operating a commercial vehicle that requires a CDL. In Virginia, a CDL Bus endorsement is required to operate any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This includes vehicles such as buses, shuttle vans, and limousines.
It is important to note that driving a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsements and licenses can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. Additionally, operating a commercial vehicle without the proper training and qualifications can be extremely dangerous, both for the driver and for passengers and other motorists on the road.
If you are interested in transporting passengers as part of your job or business, it is important to obtain the proper endorsements and licenses to ensure that you are operating legally and safely. This may involve completing additional training or certification programs beyond those required for a standard CDL.
It is important to note that driving a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsements and licenses can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. Additionally, operating a commercial vehicle without the proper training and qualifications can be extremely dangerous, both for the driver and for passengers and other motorists on the road.
If you are interested in transporting passengers as part of your job or business, it is important to obtain the proper endorsements and licenses to ensure that you are operating legally and safely. This may involve completing additional training or certification programs beyond those required for a standard CDL.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license by passing the required knowledge and skills tests for the specific endorsement. You will need to complete a CDL application and indicate that you are adding the Bus endorsement. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will then issue you a new CDL license with the added endorsement.
To add a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Hold a valid Virginia CDL license.
2. Pass the Virginia CDL Bus knowledge test, which covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading, and emergency procedures.
3. Pass a skills test in a vehicle that requires a CDL Bus endorsement, which will test your ability to safely operate and maneuver the vehicle.
4. Meet any additional requirements or qualifications established by the FMCSA or other regulatory agencies.
It is important to note that adding a new endorsement to your CDL may require additional training or certification beyond what is required for a standard CDL license. Additionally, there may be additional fees or costs associated with obtaining the new endorsement.
To add a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Hold a valid Virginia CDL license.
2. Pass the Virginia CDL Bus knowledge test, which covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading, and emergency procedures.
3. Pass a skills test in a vehicle that requires a CDL Bus endorsement, which will test your ability to safely operate and maneuver the vehicle.
4. Meet any additional requirements or qualifications established by the FMCSA or other regulatory agencies.
It is important to note that adding a new endorsement to your CDL may require additional training or certification beyond what is required for a standard CDL license. Additionally, there may be additional fees or costs associated with obtaining the new endorsement.
Yes, there are several restrictions and limitations that apply to drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Virginia. Some of the most common restrictions and limitations include:
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are typically limited to transporting no more than 16 passengers, including the driver. If you want to transport more than 16 passengers, you may need to obtain a higher-level CDL with additional endorsements.
2. Age restrictions: In Virginia, drivers must be at least 21 years old to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. If you are under 21, you may be eligible for a restricted CDL that allows you to transport fewer passengers.
3. Endorsement-specific restrictions: Some CDL Bus endorsements may have additional restrictions or requirements beyond those for a standard CDL. For example, drivers with a School Bus endorsement must undergo annual physical exams and submit to regular drug and alcohol testing.
4. Medical qualifications: All CDL holders, including those with a Bus endorsement, must meet certain medical qualifications in order to maintain their license. This includes passing regular medical exams and meeting certain health and vision requirements.
It is important to carefully read and understand all of the restrictions and requirements associated with your CDL Bus endorsement in order to ensure that you are operating your vehicle legally and safely. Failure to comply with these restrictions can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases.
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are typically limited to transporting no more than 16 passengers, including the driver. If you want to transport more than 16 passengers, you may need to obtain a higher-level CDL with additional endorsements.
2. Age restrictions: In Virginia, drivers must be at least 21 years old to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. If you are under 21, you may be eligible for a restricted CDL that allows you to transport fewer passengers.
3. Endorsement-specific restrictions: Some CDL Bus endorsements may have additional restrictions or requirements beyond those for a standard CDL. For example, drivers with a School Bus endorsement must undergo annual physical exams and submit to regular drug and alcohol testing.
4. Medical qualifications: All CDL holders, including those with a Bus endorsement, must meet certain medical qualifications in order to maintain their license. This includes passing regular medical exams and meeting certain health and vision requirements.
It is important to carefully read and understand all of the restrictions and requirements associated with your CDL Bus endorsement in order to ensure that you are operating your vehicle legally and safely. Failure to comply with these restrictions can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases.
