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. Test questions come from the Illinois Commercial Driver’s License Study Guide. Questions come from chapters covering: Passengers, 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 stopping to pick up students, a bus driver should:
Explanation
When stopping to pick up students, a school bus should be put in park. If the transmission does not have a park shift point, the vehicle should instead be placed in neutral.
2. The loading of a school bus:
Explanation
More students are killed each year during loading or unloading of school buses than while riding on school buses. Therefore, it is critical that school bus drivers follow appropriate safety procedures during loading and unloading.
3. When conducting a vehicle inspection, you must show each of the following, except:
Explanation
When checking the oil pressure gauge as part of a vehicle inspection test, you must ensure that it is working. The gauge should show increasing or normal oil pressure, or the oil pressure warning light should turn off. If equipped with one, the oil temperature gauge should begin a gradual rise to the normal operating range.
4. What happens if a driver exceeds the number of permitted looks during any particular exercise?
Explanation
During the basic vehicle control skills test exercises, a driver may leave their seated position and check the positioning of their vehicle. Using such a look more than two times during any exercise (except the straight line backing exercise) will result in an automatic failure of the skills test. Using such a look more than once during the straight line backing exercise will result in automatic failure.
5. 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.
6. What should properly adjusted outside side flat mirrors on a school bus allow the driver to see?
Explanation
When properly adjusted, the outside side flat mirrors on a school bus should allow the driver to see along the sides of the bus; the rear tires touching the ground; and 200 feet behind the bus.
7. During exercises that are not the straight line backing exercise, you may exit your vehicle to check its position no more than:
Explanation
A driver is allowed to exit their vehicle to check its position during any basic control skills test exercise. This action is called a "look." During the straight line backing exercise, a driver may not exceed one look. During any other exercise, a driver may not exceed two looks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Illinois, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL): To get a CDL, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Illinois driver's license. You will need to pass a written knowledge test and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
2. Determine the type of bus endorsement you need: Illinois offers several types of bus endorsements, including Passenger (P), School Bus (S), and Combination (P and S). You will need to choose the endorsement that best fits your needs.
3. Study the Illinois Commercial Driver's License Study Guide: The study guide provides information on bus endorsements, including the knowledge and skills required for each type of endorsement.
4. Take the Written Test: Pass the written test for your desired bus endorsement at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility. The test covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, emergency procedures, and driving in hazardous conditions.
5. Schedule and Pass the Skills Test: After passing the written test, schedule your skills test at an Illinois Secretary of State Commercial Driver's License Facility. The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
6. Pay Fees: Pay all necessary fees for your CDL Bus endorsement at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility.
7. Receive your CDL Bus Endorsement: After passing both the written and skills tests and paying all necessary fees, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement in the mail within 15 business days.
Note: It is important to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement by following all Illinois laws related to commercial driving, including renewing your license every four years and completing any required continuing education or training.
1. Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL): To get a CDL, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Illinois driver's license. You will need to pass a written knowledge test and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
2. Determine the type of bus endorsement you need: Illinois offers several types of bus endorsements, including Passenger (P), School Bus (S), and Combination (P and S). You will need to choose the endorsement that best fits your needs.
3. Study the Illinois Commercial Driver's License Study Guide: The study guide provides information on bus endorsements, including the knowledge and skills required for each type of endorsement.
4. Take the Written Test: Pass the written test for your desired bus endorsement at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility. The test covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, emergency procedures, and driving in hazardous conditions.
5. Schedule and Pass the Skills Test: After passing the written test, schedule your skills test at an Illinois Secretary of State Commercial Driver's License Facility. The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
6. Pay Fees: Pay all necessary fees for your CDL Bus endorsement at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility.
7. Receive your CDL Bus Endorsement: After passing both the written and skills tests and paying all necessary fees, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement in the mail within 15 business days.
Note: It is important to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement by following all Illinois laws related to commercial driving, including renewing your license every four years and completing any required continuing education or training.
To get a CDL Bus license in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus license. However, if you plan to operate a bus that transports passengers across state lines or carries hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Illinois Driver's License: You must have a valid Illinois driver's license.
3. Medical Certification: You must have a valid medical certification from a licensed healthcare provider. The certification must meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) standards for commercial drivers.
4. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Permit: You must obtain a CDL permit before taking the CDL skills test. To obtain a permit, you must pass a written knowledge test that covers general commercial driving knowledge and specific knowledge related to operating a bus.
5. CDL Skills Test: You must pass a skills test that includes three parts:
- Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested on your ability to inspect the bus and identify any safety issues or defects.
- Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test: You will be tested on your ability to control the bus in different driving scenarios, such as backing up, turning, and parking.
- On-Road Driving Test: You will be tested on your ability to safely operate the bus on public roads and highways.
6. Knowledge Test: Pass an additional written knowledge test specific to the type of bus you plan to operate (such as a school bus or passenger bus).
7. Background Check: Submit to a background check that includes fingerprinting.
Note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus endorsement you are seeking, such as additional testing for school bus drivers or hazardous materials endorsements for certain types of cargo.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus license. However, if you plan to operate a bus that transports passengers across state lines or carries hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Illinois Driver's License: You must have a valid Illinois driver's license.
3. Medical Certification: You must have a valid medical certification from a licensed healthcare provider. The certification must meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) standards for commercial drivers.
4. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Permit: You must obtain a CDL permit before taking the CDL skills test. To obtain a permit, you must pass a written knowledge test that covers general commercial driving knowledge and specific knowledge related to operating a bus.
5. CDL Skills Test: You must pass a skills test that includes three parts:
- Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested on your ability to inspect the bus and identify any safety issues or defects.
- Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test: You will be tested on your ability to control the bus in different driving scenarios, such as backing up, turning, and parking.
- On-Road Driving Test: You will be tested on your ability to safely operate the bus on public roads and highways.
6. Knowledge Test: Pass an additional written knowledge test specific to the type of bus you plan to operate (such as a school bus or passenger bus).
7. Background Check: Submit to a background check that includes fingerprinting.
Note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus endorsement you are seeking, such as additional testing for school bus drivers or hazardous materials endorsements for certain types of cargo.
Illinois does not require specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, but it is highly recommended to receive proper training before attempting to obtain the CDL Bus endorsement.
Many commercial driving schools offer training programs specifically for CDL Bus drivers. These programs cover topics such as driving techniques, safety procedures, and passenger management. Completing a training program can help you prepare for the CDL Bus skills test and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Additionally, some employers may require applicants to have a certain amount of experience or training before hiring them as a bus driver. For example, school bus drivers in Illinois must complete a training program that includes at least 10 hours of classroom instruction and 12 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
It is important to note that all CDL Bus drivers must complete ongoing training and continuing education to maintain their license and endorsements. This may include periodic safety reviews, additional testing, or additional coursework.
Many commercial driving schools offer training programs specifically for CDL Bus drivers. These programs cover topics such as driving techniques, safety procedures, and passenger management. Completing a training program can help you prepare for the CDL Bus skills test and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Additionally, some employers may require applicants to have a certain amount of experience or training before hiring them as a bus driver. For example, school bus drivers in Illinois must complete a training program that includes at least 10 hours of classroom instruction and 12 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
It is important to note that all CDL Bus drivers must complete ongoing training and continuing education to maintain their license and endorsements. This may include periodic safety reviews, additional testing, or additional coursework.
Yes, there are different classes and types of CDL Bus licenses in Illinois. The type of license required will depend on the size and weight of the vehicle you plan to operate as well as the number of passengers you plan to transport.
The three main classes of CDL Bus licenses are:
1. Class B: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more or a combination of vehicles with a total weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds. Additionally, you may tow a trailer with a weight rating of up to 10,000 pounds.
2. Class C: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the criteria for Class A or Class B licenses. This includes vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) and vehicles used to transport hazardous materials.
3. Class A: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed has a weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more.
In addition, there are several endorsements that can be added to your CDL Bus license depending on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to transport. For example, school bus drivers must obtain a School Bus endorsement, which requires additional testing and training. Other endorsements include Passenger (P), Hazardous Materials (H), and Tank (N) endorsements.
The three main classes of CDL Bus licenses are:
1. Class B: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more or a combination of vehicles with a total weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds. Additionally, you may tow a trailer with a weight rating of up to 10,000 pounds.
2. Class C: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the criteria for Class A or Class B licenses. This includes vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) and vehicles used to transport hazardous materials.
3. Class A: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed has a weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more.
In addition, there are several endorsements that can be added to your CDL Bus license depending on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to transport. For example, school bus drivers must obtain a School Bus endorsement, which requires additional testing and training. Other endorsements include Passenger (P), Hazardous Materials (H), and Tank (N) endorsements.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Illinois. You must provide a vehicle that meets the requirements for the class of CDL you are applying for.
For the CDL Bus driving test, you must provide a vehicle that meets the following requirements:
1. The vehicle must be representative of the class of license for which you are applying.
2. The vehicle must be in safe operating condition with all required safety equipment working properly.
3. The vehicle must have a seating capacity of at least 16 passengers (including the driver) and have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of at least 26,001 pounds.
4. The vehicle must be equipped with an emergency exit on each side and a rear emergency exit if there is no side exit on the right side of the vehicle.
If you do not own a vehicle that meets these requirements, you may be able to rent one from a commercial driving school or other provider. However, it is important to make sure that the rental vehicle meets all requirements before scheduling your CDL Bus driving test.
For the CDL Bus driving test, you must provide a vehicle that meets the following requirements:
1. The vehicle must be representative of the class of license for which you are applying.
2. The vehicle must be in safe operating condition with all required safety equipment working properly.
3. The vehicle must have a seating capacity of at least 16 passengers (including the driver) and have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of at least 26,001 pounds.
4. The vehicle must be equipped with an emergency exit on each side and a rear emergency exit if there is no side exit on the right side of the vehicle.
If you do not own a vehicle that meets these requirements, you may be able to rent one from a commercial driving school or other provider. However, it is important to make sure that the rental vehicle meets all requirements before scheduling your CDL Bus driving test.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Illinois. These will vary depending on the class of CDL you are applying for, but typically include:
1. Vehicle inspection: You will need to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, checking for any safety hazards or mechanical issues.
2. Basic controls: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle by performing basic maneuvers such as backing up, turning, and shifting.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle in traffic, obeying all traffic laws and signals.
4. Special skills: Depending on the class of CDL you are applying for, you may also need to demonstrate additional skills such as coupling and uncoupling a trailer, loading and unloading passengers, or transporting hazardous materials.
It is important to practice these skills and maneuvers extensively before taking the CDL Bus driving test. You may want to consider enrolling in a commercial driving school or working with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are fully prepared for the test.
1. Vehicle inspection: You will need to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, checking for any safety hazards or mechanical issues.
2. Basic controls: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle by performing basic maneuvers such as backing up, turning, and shifting.
3. On-road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle in traffic, obeying all traffic laws and signals.
4. Special skills: Depending on the class of CDL you are applying for, you may also need to demonstrate additional skills such as coupling and uncoupling a trailer, loading and unloading passengers, or transporting hazardous materials.
It is important to practice these skills and maneuvers extensively before taking the CDL Bus driving test. You may want to consider enrolling in a commercial driving school or working with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are fully prepared for the test.
Yes, there are additional medical or physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement in Illinois. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established medical standards that commercial drivers must meet to ensure they are physically capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Illinois, you must pass a medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical exam will evaluate your overall health, vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other factors that could affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
In addition to the medical examination, you must also disclose any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely. This includes conditions such as epilepsy, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Depending on the condition, you may need to provide additional documentation or undergo further testing to determine your eligibility for a CDL Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that the medical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to change. It is recommended that you check with the Illinois Secretary of State's office or the FMCSA for the most up-to-date information on medical and physical requirements for commercial drivers.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Illinois, you must pass a medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical exam will evaluate your overall health, vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other factors that could affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
In addition to the medical examination, you must also disclose any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely. This includes conditions such as epilepsy, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Depending on the condition, you may need to provide additional documentation or undergo further testing to determine your eligibility for a CDL Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that the medical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to change. It is recommended that you check with the Illinois Secretary of State's office or the FMCSA for the most up-to-date information on medical and physical requirements for commercial drivers.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in Illinois. The CDL Bus endorsement is required for drivers who operate vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This includes buses used for public transportation, school buses, and commercial passenger buses.
In addition to holding a CDL Bus endorsement, drivers who transport passengers must meet other requirements such as passing a background check and completing specialized training in passenger safety.
If you are caught transporting passengers without the proper endorsement, you could face fines, license suspension or revocation, and other legal consequences. It is important to ensure that you have the proper endorsements and meet all requirements before operating a commercial vehicle.
In addition to holding a CDL Bus endorsement, drivers who transport passengers must meet other requirements such as passing a background check and completing specialized training in passenger safety.
If you are caught transporting passengers without the proper endorsement, you could face fines, license suspension or revocation, and other legal consequences. It is important to ensure that you have the proper endorsements and meet all requirements before operating a commercial vehicle.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Illinois. To do so, you will need to pass the necessary written and skills tests for the Bus endorsement.
To add the Bus endorsement to your CDL license, you will need to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility and provide proof of your identity and residency. You will also need to self-certify your driving type, meaning you will need to certify whether you will be driving interstate or intrastate and whether you are subject to medical certification requirements. You will then need to pass the written test for the Bus endorsement, which covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading, and emergency procedures.
Once you have passed the written test, you will need to complete a skills test in a vehicle that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement. The skills test will evaluate your ability to operate the vehicle safely and effectively.
Once you have passed both tests, the Bus endorsement will be added to your CDL license. It is important to note that there may be additional fees for adding endorsements to your license.
To add the Bus endorsement to your CDL license, you will need to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility and provide proof of your identity and residency. You will also need to self-certify your driving type, meaning you will need to certify whether you will be driving interstate or intrastate and whether you are subject to medical certification requirements. You will then need to pass the written test for the Bus endorsement, which covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading, and emergency procedures.
Once you have passed the written test, you will need to complete a skills test in a vehicle that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement. The skills test will evaluate your ability to operate the vehicle safely and effectively.
Once you have passed both tests, the Bus endorsement will be added to your CDL license. It is important to note that there may be additional fees for adding endorsements to your license.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Illinois. Some of the restrictions and limitations include:
1. Passenger limits: The number of passengers that can be transported by a driver with a CDL Bus endorsement will depend on the specific vehicle they are operating. For example, a driver with a Bus endorsement on their CDL license can only transport up to 15 passengers, including the driver, if they are operating a vehicle that is designed to carry 16 or fewer passengers.
2. Endorsement-specific restrictions: There may be additional restrictions or limitations that apply to specific types of Bus endorsements, such as the School Bus endorsement or the Passenger endorsement.
3. Medical certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must meet medical certification requirements and carry a valid medical examiner's certificate at all times.
4. Background checks: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may be subject to additional background checks and screening requirements.
5. Safety regulations: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must comply with all applicable safety regulations, including those related to driver hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and passenger safety.
It is important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and to comply with all applicable regulations in order to maintain their license and operate their vehicle safely and legally.
1. Passenger limits: The number of passengers that can be transported by a driver with a CDL Bus endorsement will depend on the specific vehicle they are operating. For example, a driver with a Bus endorsement on their CDL license can only transport up to 15 passengers, including the driver, if they are operating a vehicle that is designed to carry 16 or fewer passengers.
2. Endorsement-specific restrictions: There may be additional restrictions or limitations that apply to specific types of Bus endorsements, such as the School Bus endorsement or the Passenger endorsement.
3. Medical certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must meet medical certification requirements and carry a valid medical examiner's certificate at all times.
4. Background checks: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may be subject to additional background checks and screening requirements.
5. Safety regulations: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must comply with all applicable safety regulations, including those related to driver hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and passenger safety.
It is important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations and to comply with all applicable regulations in order to maintain their license and operate their vehicle safely and legally.
