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 Maine 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
8. If a student is believed to have suffered a back injury, you should:
Explanation
A school bus driver should not attempt to move a student who has suffered a neck or spinal injury unless the student's life is in immediate danger.
9. Backing a school bus is:
Explanation
Backing a school bus is strongly discouraged and should only be done if there is no safe alternative. If you must drive in reverse, be sure to follow all proper safety protocol.
10. ABS allows you to:
Explanation
Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) help prevent brake lockup when driving on slippery surfaces. If a driver brakes too hard on a slippery surface, ABS makes it easier for the driver to maintain control of their vehicle. A vehicle equipped with ABS should be driven and braked in the same way as a vehicle without ABS.
11. After students unload at the school, a driver should:
Explanation
After students unload at school, a school bus driver should walk through the bus to check for sleeping students, hiding students, and items that students may have left behind. Students should exit the bus in an orderly fashion with the driver supervising.
12. Students loading and unloading a 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. This process should never take place without being properly supervised.
13. If you must drive during periods of high winds, you should:
Explanation
A school bus's long sides are vulnerable to being pushed by winds. If you must drive in windy conditions, you should maintain a strong grip on the steering wheel, try to anticipate wind gusts, and slow down. If necessary, contact your dispatcher for instructions on how to proceed.
14. A passive railroad crossing:
Explanation
Railroad crossings that do not display any traffic control devices 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 Maine, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Maine Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing a written knowledge test for the CDL Bus endorsement.
2. Practice driving a commercial vehicle with the Bus endorsement with an experienced CDL holder.
3. Pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement.
4. Complete a Maine Commercial Driver's License Application and pay the required fees.
5. Provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States.
6. Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and show proof of medical certification.
7. If you are not already licensed to drive other types of commercial vehicles, such as trucks, you may need to take additional knowledge and skills tests for those endorsements as well.
Once you have completed these steps and have met all other requirements, you will be issued a Maine Commercial Driver's License with the Bus endorsement.
1. Obtain a Maine Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing a written knowledge test for the CDL Bus endorsement.
2. Practice driving a commercial vehicle with the Bus endorsement with an experienced CDL holder.
3. Pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement.
4. Complete a Maine Commercial Driver's License Application and pay the required fees.
5. Provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States.
6. Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and show proof of medical certification.
7. If you are not already licensed to drive other types of commercial vehicles, such as trucks, you may need to take additional knowledge and skills tests for those endorsements as well.
Once you have completed these steps and have met all other requirements, you will be issued a Maine Commercial Driver's License with the Bus endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Maine, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years of age for intrastate (within Maine) driving or 21 years of age for interstate (between states) driving.
2. Possess a valid Maine driver's license.
3. Have a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations or drug/alcohol-related convictions in the past three years.
4. Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and obtain a medical certificate.
5. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge test for the CDL Bus endorsement.
6. Complete a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement and pass all required components of the test, including pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
In addition to these requirements, you may also be required to meet other state-specific requirements related to your driving record, criminal history, and residency status.
1. Be at least 18 years of age for intrastate (within Maine) driving or 21 years of age for interstate (between states) driving.
2. Possess a valid Maine driver's license.
3. Have a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations or drug/alcohol-related convictions in the past three years.
4. Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination and obtain a medical certificate.
5. Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge test for the CDL Bus endorsement.
6. Complete a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement and pass all required components of the test, including pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
In addition to these requirements, you may also be required to meet other state-specific requirements related to your driving record, criminal history, and residency status.
Yes, you will need specific experience and training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Maine. Here are the requirements:
1. You must have a valid Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
2. You must have the appropriate Class of CDL license.
3. You must complete a Maine-approved Bus Driver Training Course that includes at least 30 hours of classroom instruction and 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
4. You must pass the CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that some employers may require additional training or experience beyond what is required by the state of Maine. It is recommended that you research job requirements and speak with potential employers to understand their specific requirements and preferences.
1. You must have a valid Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
2. You must have the appropriate Class of CDL license.
3. You must complete a Maine-approved Bus Driver Training Course that includes at least 30 hours of classroom instruction and 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
4. You must pass the CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that some employers may require additional training or experience beyond what is required by the state of Maine. It is recommended that you research job requirements and speak with potential employers to understand their specific requirements and preferences.
Yes, there are different classes of CDL Bus licenses in Maine. The classes are based on the weight of the vehicle you will be driving and how many passengers it can carry. Here are the different classes:
1. Class B CDL: This is required for a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a trailer with a weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds. This class also covers buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
2. Class C CDL: This is required for a single vehicle with a weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds that is used to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
It's important to note that in addition to the CDL class, you will also need to obtain specific endorsements based on the type of bus you will be driving. The most common endorsements for bus drivers are Passenger (P) and School Bus (S). The Passenger endorsement is required for drivers who will be operating buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers, while the School Bus endorsement is required for drivers who will be operating school buses.
1. Class B CDL: This is required for a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a trailer with a weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds. This class also covers buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
2. Class C CDL: This is required for a single vehicle with a weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds that is used to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
It's important to note that in addition to the CDL class, you will also need to obtain specific endorsements based on the type of bus you will be driving. The most common endorsements for bus drivers are Passenger (P) and School Bus (S). The Passenger endorsement is required for drivers who will be operating buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers, while the School Bus endorsement is required for drivers who will be operating school buses.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Maine. You must take the test in a vehicle that is representative of the type of bus you will be driving. This means that the vehicle must meet the weight and passenger capacity requirements for your CDL class and any endorsements you are seeking.
The vehicle used for the test must also be in safe operating condition, with all required safety equipment and features in working order. If you are taking the test through a third-party testing program, the organization will provide a suitable vehicle for you to use during the test.
It's important to note that you must pass a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and road test in order to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. These tests are designed to ensure that you can safely operate a commercial vehicle and respond appropriately to different driving situations.
The vehicle used for the test must also be in safe operating condition, with all required safety equipment and features in working order. If you are taking the test through a third-party testing program, the organization will provide a suitable vehicle for you to use during the test.
It's important to note that you must pass a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and road test in order to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. These tests are designed to ensure that you can safely operate a commercial vehicle and respond appropriately to different driving situations.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Maine. The test consists of three parts: a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and on-road driving test. Here's what you can expect for each part:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to identify and explain the function of various parts and systems of the bus, as well as check for any defects or safety issues. You will need to demonstrate that you know how to inspect the bus properly and can identify any issues that could affect safety.
2. Basic control skills test: You will need to demonstrate your ability to perform specific maneuvers with the bus, including straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking. These skills are designed to show that you can safely maneuver the bus in tight spaces and control it in different situations.
3. On-road driving test: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the bus on public roads, including obeying traffic laws, using turn signals and other safety equipment properly, merging into traffic, changing lanes, and making turns. You will also need to demonstrate your ability to handle different driving conditions, such as traffic congestion, railroad crossings, and highway speeds.
It's important to practice these skills with a qualified instructor before taking the CDL Bus driving test. This will help ensure that you are fully prepared and can pass the test on your first attempt.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to identify and explain the function of various parts and systems of the bus, as well as check for any defects or safety issues. You will need to demonstrate that you know how to inspect the bus properly and can identify any issues that could affect safety.
2. Basic control skills test: You will need to demonstrate your ability to perform specific maneuvers with the bus, including straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking. These skills are designed to show that you can safely maneuver the bus in tight spaces and control it in different situations.
3. On-road driving test: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the bus on public roads, including obeying traffic laws, using turn signals and other safety equipment properly, merging into traffic, changing lanes, and making turns. You will also need to demonstrate your ability to handle different driving conditions, such as traffic congestion, railroad crossings, and highway speeds.
It's important to practice these skills with a qualified instructor before taking the CDL Bus driving test. This will help ensure that you are fully prepared and can pass the test on your first attempt.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Maine. To be eligible for a CDL, you must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical examiner's certificate. This certificate verifies that you meet the minimum physical qualifications required for operating a commercial vehicle.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the standards for medical qualifications for CDL holders. These standards include vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other health-related criteria. You must also disclose any medical conditions that could affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
In addition to the medical requirements, there are also specific physical requirements for operating a bus. You must be able to climb in and out of the bus, operate the pedals and controls, and move around the bus to perform pre-trip inspections and assist passengers as needed. You must also have good hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and overall physical fitness.
It's important to note that if you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely, you may need to obtain a waiver or exemption from the FMCSA. This process can be complex and time-consuming, so it's important to start early if you think you may need a waiver or exemption.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the standards for medical qualifications for CDL holders. These standards include vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other health-related criteria. You must also disclose any medical conditions that could affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
In addition to the medical requirements, there are also specific physical requirements for operating a bus. You must be able to climb in and out of the bus, operate the pedals and controls, and move around the bus to perform pre-trip inspections and assist passengers as needed. You must also have good hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and overall physical fitness.
It's important to note that if you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely, you may need to obtain a waiver or exemption from the FMCSA. This process can be complex and time-consuming, so it's important to start early if you think you may need a waiver or exemption.
No, you cannot transport passengers for hire without a CDL Bus endorsement. In Maine, a CDL with a passenger endorsement is required for anyone who operates a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
Without a CDL Bus endorsement, you would not be legally authorized to operate a bus or transport passengers for hire. This includes operating a bus for a private company, public transportation system, or any other organization that transports passengers in exchange for payment.
Violating this requirement can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. It's crucial to obtain the appropriate endorsements and licenses before operating any commercial vehicle.
If you are interested in obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Maine, you will need to pass the required knowledge and skills tests, as well as meet the medical and physical requirements outlined by the FMCSA. You can find more information about the requirements and application process on the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website.
Without a CDL Bus endorsement, you would not be legally authorized to operate a bus or transport passengers for hire. This includes operating a bus for a private company, public transportation system, or any other organization that transports passengers in exchange for payment.
Violating this requirement can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. It's crucial to obtain the appropriate endorsements and licenses before operating any commercial vehicle.
If you are interested in obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Maine, you will need to pass the required knowledge and skills tests, as well as meet the medical and physical requirements outlined by the FMCSA. You can find more information about the requirements and application process on the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Maine. To add the endorsement, you will need to pass the knowledge and skills tests for the passenger endorsement, as well as meet the medical and physical requirements outlined by the FMCSA.
To add the endorsement, you will need to visit a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office in person and submit an application. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the United States.
Once your application is processed, you will be required to take and pass the knowledge test for the passenger endorsement. This test covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
After passing the knowledge test, you will need to take and pass a skills test in a vehicle that meets the requirements for a CDL with a passenger endorsement. The skills test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers.
Once you have passed both tests and met all other requirements, the BMV will issue you a new CDL with the Bus endorsement added. It's important to note that there may be additional fees associated with adding the endorsement to your license.
Overall, adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license can be a straightforward process as long as you meet all of the requirements and follow the necessary steps.
To add the endorsement, you will need to visit a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office in person and submit an application. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and citizenship or lawful presence in the United States.
Once your application is processed, you will be required to take and pass the knowledge test for the passenger endorsement. This test covers topics such as passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
After passing the knowledge test, you will need to take and pass a skills test in a vehicle that meets the requirements for a CDL with a passenger endorsement. The skills test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers.
Once you have passed both tests and met all other requirements, the BMV will issue you a new CDL with the Bus endorsement added. It's important to note that there may be additional fees associated with adding the endorsement to your license.
Overall, adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license can be a straightforward process as long as you meet all of the requirements and follow the necessary steps.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Maine. Here are some of the most important ones:
1. Passenger limit: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to transporting no more than 16 passengers, including the driver.
2. Endorsement-specific restrictions: Depending on the type of passenger endorsement you have, there may be additional restrictions or requirements. For example, if you have a School Bus endorsement, you will be required to stop at all railroad crossings, even if there is no train approaching.
3. Medical certification: As with all CDL holders, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are required to maintain a valid medical certification. This certification must be renewed every two years and must be provided by a certified medical examiner.
4. Recordkeeping: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must keep accurate records of their driving time and duty status in accordance with federal regulations.
5. Alcohol and drug use: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to stricter alcohol and drug testing requirements than non-CDL holders. They may not operate a commercial vehicle with any detectable amount of alcohol or controlled substances in their system.
6. Traffic violations: Certain traffic violations can result in disqualification of your CDL Bus endorsement, including DUIs, leaving the scene of an accident, and reckless driving.
It's important to note that violating any of these restrictions or requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. As a professional driver with a CDL Bus endorsement, it's crucial to comply with all applicable rules and regulations at all times.
1. Passenger limit: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to transporting no more than 16 passengers, including the driver.
2. Endorsement-specific restrictions: Depending on the type of passenger endorsement you have, there may be additional restrictions or requirements. For example, if you have a School Bus endorsement, you will be required to stop at all railroad crossings, even if there is no train approaching.
3. Medical certification: As with all CDL holders, drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are required to maintain a valid medical certification. This certification must be renewed every two years and must be provided by a certified medical examiner.
4. Recordkeeping: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must keep accurate records of their driving time and duty status in accordance with federal regulations.
5. Alcohol and drug use: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to stricter alcohol and drug testing requirements than non-CDL holders. They may not operate a commercial vehicle with any detectable amount of alcohol or controlled substances in their system.
6. Traffic violations: Certain traffic violations can result in disqualification of your CDL Bus endorsement, including DUIs, leaving the scene of an accident, and reckless driving.
It's important to note that violating any of these restrictions or requirements can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges in some cases. As a professional driver with a CDL Bus endorsement, it's crucial to comply with all applicable rules and regulations at all times.
