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 Alabama 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. When alley docking, 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.
2. 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.
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 taking the on-road driving test, you must do all of the following, except:
Explanation
During the on-road driving test, you must drive in a safe and responsible manner; wear your safety belt; obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws; and complete the test without any accidents or moving violations.
5. When exiting your vehicle, you:
Explanation
When exiting your vehicle during the basic vehicle control skills test, you must face the vehicle and maintain three points of contact at all times. If your testing vehicle is a bus, you must maintain contact with the handrail. Exiting the vehicle incorrectly may result in automatic failure of the basic control skills test.
6. When operating a school bus, mirrors should be adjusted:
Explanation
It is critical to the safe operation of a school bus that mirrors be properly adjusted. Always check each mirror before operating the bus.
7. When taking the on-road driving skills test, you will be evaluated on your gear usage. You should not:
Explanation
During the on-road driving skills test, you will be evaluated on your gear usage. Select a gear that does not rev or lug the engine; avoid grinding and clashing gears; and avoid shifting through turns or intersections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL bus endorsement in Alabama, you need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
To obtain a CDL in Alabama, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license. You must also pass a vision test, knowledge test, and skills test.
2. Meet the Requirements
You must meet the following requirements to get a CDL bus endorsement in Alabama:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a valid CDL license
- Pass a written knowledge test related to commercial bus driving
- Pass a skills test driving a commercial bus
3. Study for the Written Knowledge Test
The written knowledge test for the CDL bus endorsement covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures. You can study for this test by reading the Alabama CDL manual.
4. Schedule and Pass the Written Knowledge Test
Schedule an appointment with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office to take the written knowledge exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to commercial bus driving. You must score at least 80% to pass.
5. Schedule and Pass the Skills Test
After passing the written knowledge test, schedule an appointment with your local DPS office to take the skills test. The skills test involves driving a commercial bus with an examiner present. You will be tested on your ability to drive safely with passengers, navigate through traffic, and park the bus.
6. Pay the Required Fees
Once you have passed both exams, pay the required fees for your CDL bus endorsement. The fee is $25 for each endorsement.
7. Receive Your CDL Bus Endorsement
After completing all of these steps, you will receive your CDL bus endorsement in Alabama which will allow you to legally drive commercial buses in the state.
1. Obtain a Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
To obtain a CDL in Alabama, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license. You must also pass a vision test, knowledge test, and skills test.
2. Meet the Requirements
You must meet the following requirements to get a CDL bus endorsement in Alabama:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a valid CDL license
- Pass a written knowledge test related to commercial bus driving
- Pass a skills test driving a commercial bus
3. Study for the Written Knowledge Test
The written knowledge test for the CDL bus endorsement covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures. You can study for this test by reading the Alabama CDL manual.
4. Schedule and Pass the Written Knowledge Test
Schedule an appointment with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety office to take the written knowledge exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to commercial bus driving. You must score at least 80% to pass.
5. Schedule and Pass the Skills Test
After passing the written knowledge test, schedule an appointment with your local DPS office to take the skills test. The skills test involves driving a commercial bus with an examiner present. You will be tested on your ability to drive safely with passengers, navigate through traffic, and park the bus.
6. Pay the Required Fees
Once you have passed both exams, pay the required fees for your CDL bus endorsement. The fee is $25 for each endorsement.
7. Receive Your CDL Bus Endorsement
After completing all of these steps, you will receive your CDL bus endorsement in Alabama which will allow you to legally drive commercial buses in the state.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Alabama, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old to drive within the state of Alabama, and 21 years old to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Have a valid Alabama driver's license.
3. Provide proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency in the United States.
4. Complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and obtain a medical examiner's certificate.
5. Pass a vision test with a visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction, and a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
6. Self-certify the type of commercial vehicle operation you will be performing (intrastate or interstate) and whether you are subject to any medical conditions that may affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
7. Obtain a learner's permit and hold it for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
8. Pass a written knowledge test on the rules and regulations that apply to commercial drivers, including traffic laws, safe driving practices, and procedures for transporting passengers or cargo.
9. Pass a skills test that evaluates your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely, including pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
10. Pay the required fees for obtaining a CDL Bus license.
Once you have met all of these requirements and obtained your CDL Bus license in Alabama, you will be authorized to operate commercial vehicles such as buses for hire or transport purposes within the state or across state lines depending on your endorsement(s).
1. Be at least 18 years old to drive within the state of Alabama, and 21 years old to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Have a valid Alabama driver's license.
3. Provide proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency in the United States.
4. Complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and obtain a medical examiner's certificate.
5. Pass a vision test with a visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction, and a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
6. Self-certify the type of commercial vehicle operation you will be performing (intrastate or interstate) and whether you are subject to any medical conditions that may affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
7. Obtain a learner's permit and hold it for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
8. Pass a written knowledge test on the rules and regulations that apply to commercial drivers, including traffic laws, safe driving practices, and procedures for transporting passengers or cargo.
9. Pass a skills test that evaluates your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely, including pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
10. Pay the required fees for obtaining a CDL Bus license.
Once you have met all of these requirements and obtained your CDL Bus license in Alabama, you will be authorized to operate commercial vehicles such as buses for hire or transport purposes within the state or across state lines depending on your endorsement(s).
Yes, you will need specific experience and training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama. Here are some of the requirements:
1. You must have a valid Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or be applying for one.
2. You must have at least 2 years of driving experience with a standard driver's license.
3. You must complete a training program or have previous experience operating a commercial vehicle, such as a bus.
4. You must pass a written knowledge test related to commercial bus driving, which covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
5. You must pass a skills test driving a commercial bus, which includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
6. Depending on the type of bus you will be operating, you may need additional endorsements such as the Passenger endorsement or the School Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that some employers may require additional training or experience beyond what is required by the state of Alabama to operate a commercial bus safely and effectively. It is recommended that you research the specific requirements of your prospective employer before applying for a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama.
1. You must have a valid Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or be applying for one.
2. You must have at least 2 years of driving experience with a standard driver's license.
3. You must complete a training program or have previous experience operating a commercial vehicle, such as a bus.
4. You must pass a written knowledge test related to commercial bus driving, which covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
5. You must pass a skills test driving a commercial bus, which includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
6. Depending on the type of bus you will be operating, you may need additional endorsements such as the Passenger endorsement or the School Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that some employers may require additional training or experience beyond what is required by the state of Alabama to operate a commercial bus safely and effectively. It is recommended that you research the specific requirements of your prospective employer before applying for a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Alabama, which are based on the weight of the vehicle and the type of cargo or passengers being transported. The three classes of CDL are:
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 that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This class is required for drivers who operate tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, or other heavy-duty vehicles that require a trailer.
2. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a trailer weighing less than 10,000 pounds. This class is required for drivers who operate buses, delivery trucks, or other heavy-duty vehicles that do not require a trailer.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate single vehicles with a GVWR less than 26,001 pounds or any such vehicle carrying hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers (including the driver). This class is required for drivers who operate passenger vans, small buses, or other vehicles that carry passengers or hazardous materials.
In addition to the three classes of CDLs in Alabama, there are also different endorsements that you can obtain based on the type of cargo or passengers you will be transporting. For example, if you will be driving a bus carrying passengers for hire you will need to get the Passenger endorsement.
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 that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds. This class is required for drivers who operate tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, or other heavy-duty vehicles that require a trailer.
2. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a trailer weighing less than 10,000 pounds. This class is required for drivers who operate buses, delivery trucks, or other heavy-duty vehicles that do not require a trailer.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate single vehicles with a GVWR less than 26,001 pounds or any such vehicle carrying hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers (including the driver). This class is required for drivers who operate passenger vans, small buses, or other vehicles that carry passengers or hazardous materials.
In addition to the three classes of CDLs in Alabama, there are also different endorsements that you can obtain based on the type of cargo or passengers you will be transporting. For example, if you will be driving a bus carrying passengers for hire you will need to get the Passenger endorsement.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Alabama. The driving test must be taken in the class of vehicle for which you are seeking a CDL. This means that if you are seeking a CDL Bus endorsement, you must take the driving test in a commercial bus that meets the weight and other requirements for that endorsement.
The Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) provides the vehicles for the driving test, and they are specifically designed and equipped for CDL testing purposes. You will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial bus by completing a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control skills, and on-road driving skills.
It is important to note that you must also provide proof of insurance for the vehicle you will be using for the CDL Bus driving test. This insurance must meet the minimum requirements set by the state of Alabama and cover liability, property damage, and bodily injury.
Therefore, it is recommended that you practice operating a commercial bus before taking the CDL Bus driving test to ensure that you are prepared to pass the test and obtain your CDL Bus endorsement.
The Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) provides the vehicles for the driving test, and they are specifically designed and equipped for CDL testing purposes. You will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial bus by completing a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control skills, and on-road driving skills.
It is important to note that you must also provide proof of insurance for the vehicle you will be using for the CDL Bus driving test. This insurance must meet the minimum requirements set by the state of Alabama and cover liability, property damage, and bodily injury.
Therefore, it is recommended that you practice operating a commercial bus before taking the CDL Bus driving test to ensure that you are prepared to pass the test and obtain your CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Alabama. These skills and maneuvers are designed to test your ability to safely operate a commercial bus and include the following:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your commercial bus before beginning the driving test, checking for any defects or safety issues.
2. Basic vehicle control skills: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to perform basic maneuvers, such as straight line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. On-road driving skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial bus on the road, including starting and stopping, turning, merging, and changing lanes.
4. Emergency procedures: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to respond to emergency situations, such as brake failure or sudden lane changes by other drivers.
5. Passenger management: If you are testing for a Passenger endorsement, you will need to demonstrate your ability to safely manage passengers on the bus, including loading and unloading passengers and operating wheelchair lifts or other specialized equipment.
It is important to note that the CDL Bus driving test is rigorous and requires a high level of skill and experience. Therefore, it is recommended that you obtain professional training from a reputable CDL training school before taking the test.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your commercial bus before beginning the driving test, checking for any defects or safety issues.
2. Basic vehicle control skills: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to perform basic maneuvers, such as straight line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
3. On-road driving skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial bus on the road, including starting and stopping, turning, merging, and changing lanes.
4. Emergency procedures: You will be asked to demonstrate your ability to respond to emergency situations, such as brake failure or sudden lane changes by other drivers.
5. Passenger management: If you are testing for a Passenger endorsement, you will need to demonstrate your ability to safely manage passengers on the bus, including loading and unloading passengers and operating wheelchair lifts or other specialized equipment.
It is important to note that the CDL Bus driving test is rigorous and requires a high level of skill and experience. Therefore, it is recommended that you obtain professional training from a reputable CDL training school before taking the test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama. These requirements are in place to ensure that commercial drivers are physically capable of safely operating a commercial bus and to minimize the risk of accidents or other safety issues.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama, you must meet the following medical and physical requirements:
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 pass a hearing test, demonstrating that you can hear a forced whisper from at least 5 feet away with or without hearing aids.
3. Blood pressure: Your blood pressure must be below 160/100 on the day of your medical exam.
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you must provide documentation from your treating physician showing that your diabetes is under control and that you are able to safely operate a commercial bus.
5. Sleep apnea: If you have sleep apnea, you may be required to undergo a sleep study and use a CPAP machine while driving.
6. Other medical conditions: If you have other medical conditions, such as heart disease or epilepsy, you may be required to provide additional documentation from your treating physician showing that your condition is under control and that you are able to safely operate a commercial bus.
It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change, so it is recommended that you check with the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) for the most up-to-date information before applying for a CDL Bus endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama, you must meet the following medical and physical requirements:
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 pass a hearing test, demonstrating that you can hear a forced whisper from at least 5 feet away with or without hearing aids.
3. Blood pressure: Your blood pressure must be below 160/100 on the day of your medical exam.
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you must provide documentation from your treating physician showing that your diabetes is under control and that you are able to safely operate a commercial bus.
5. Sleep apnea: If you have sleep apnea, you may be required to undergo a sleep study and use a CPAP machine while driving.
6. Other medical conditions: If you have other medical conditions, such as heart disease or epilepsy, you may be required to provide additional documentation from your treating physician showing that your condition is under control and that you are able to safely operate a commercial bus.
It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change, so it is recommended that you check with the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) for the most up-to-date information before applying for a CDL Bus endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a CDL Bus endorsement is required for any driver who operates a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
This means that if you are driving a commercial bus that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, you must hold a valid CDL with a Bus endorsement. Without this endorsement, you are not legally permitted to operate the vehicle and may be subject to fines or other penalties if caught.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement are separate from the requirements for obtaining a regular passenger vehicle driver's license. To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must pass both written and driving tests specific to the operation of commercial buses. Additionally, you must meet certain medical and physical requirements, as outlined by the FMCSA.
If you are unsure whether you need a CDL Bus endorsement for your specific situation, it is recommended that you contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) for guidance.
This means that if you are driving a commercial bus that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, you must hold a valid CDL with a Bus endorsement. Without this endorsement, you are not legally permitted to operate the vehicle and may be subject to fines or other penalties if caught.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement are separate from the requirements for obtaining a regular passenger vehicle driver's license. To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must pass both written and driving tests specific to the operation of commercial buses. Additionally, you must meet certain medical and physical requirements, as outlined by the FMCSA.
If you are unsure whether you need a CDL Bus endorsement for your specific situation, it is recommended that you contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) for guidance.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Alabama. You do not need to apply for a new license; instead, you can simply apply for the Bus endorsement and have it added to your existing CDL.
To add the Bus endorsement to your CDL, you must pass a written test that covers topics specific to the operation of commercial buses, such as passenger safety, loading and unloading procedures, and emergency procedures. You may also be required to pass a skills test that demonstrates your ability to safely operate a commercial bus.
It is important to note that before you can add the Bus endorsement to your CDL, you must hold a valid medical certificate that meets the requirements for commercial drivers. This certificate must be issued by a medical professional who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
To apply for the Bus endorsement in Alabama, you can visit your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will need to bring your current CDL and any required documentation, such as your medical certificate and proof of identity.
To add the Bus endorsement to your CDL, you must pass a written test that covers topics specific to the operation of commercial buses, such as passenger safety, loading and unloading procedures, and emergency procedures. You may also be required to pass a skills test that demonstrates your ability to safely operate a commercial bus.
It is important to note that before you can add the Bus endorsement to your CDL, you must hold a valid medical certificate that meets the requirements for commercial drivers. This certificate must be issued by a medical professional who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
To apply for the Bus endorsement in Alabama, you can visit your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will need to bring your current CDL and any required documentation, such as your medical certificate and proof of identity.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama. These restrictions and limitations are designed to ensure the safety of passengers and other drivers on the road.
Some of the common restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama include:
1. Passenger limit: A driver with a CDL Bus endorsement may only transport the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to hold. This means that if the bus is designed to hold 20 passengers, the driver cannot transport more than 20 passengers.
2. Hours of service: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must comply with federal and state regulations regarding hours of service. These regulations limit the number of hours that a driver can operate a commercial vehicle without taking a break.
3. Endorsement type: There are different types of CDL Bus endorsements, including School Bus, Passenger, and Combination (P and S). Depending on the type of endorsement you hold, you may be restricted from operating certain types of commercial buses.
4. Vehicle type: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are only permitted to operate commercial vehicles that fall within their endorsement classification. For example, if you have a Passenger endorsement, you cannot legally operate a vehicle designed to transport hazardous materials.
It is important to note that these restrictions and limitations may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific regulations in your state. To ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable regulations, it is recommended that you consult with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) or a qualified commercial driving instructor.
Some of the common restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama include:
1. Passenger limit: A driver with a CDL Bus endorsement may only transport the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to hold. This means that if the bus is designed to hold 20 passengers, the driver cannot transport more than 20 passengers.
2. Hours of service: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must comply with federal and state regulations regarding hours of service. These regulations limit the number of hours that a driver can operate a commercial vehicle without taking a break.
3. Endorsement type: There are different types of CDL Bus endorsements, including School Bus, Passenger, and Combination (P and S). Depending on the type of endorsement you hold, you may be restricted from operating certain types of commercial buses.
4. Vehicle type: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are only permitted to operate commercial vehicles that fall within their endorsement classification. For example, if you have a Passenger endorsement, you cannot legally operate a vehicle designed to transport hazardous materials.
It is important to note that these restrictions and limitations may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific regulations in your state. To ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable regulations, it is recommended that you consult with your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) or a qualified commercial driving instructor.
