Bus
This endorsement is required for driving a school bus. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a written 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 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Commercial Driver’s Manual and Pennsylvania School Bus Driver Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Passengers and School Buses. The School Bus endorsement can be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. 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.
2. When asked to make a lane change during the skills test, you should:
Explanation
You will be asked to make multiple lane changes during the driving skills test. Before changing lanes, you should make the necessary traffic checks and use proper signals. Change lanes smoothly when you can do so safely.
3. A blind spot extends at least ____ behind a school bus.
Explanation
A school bus has blind spots immediately below the side flat mirrors, immediately in front of the side flat mirrors, and directly behind the rear bumper. Rear blind spots typically extend 50 to 150 feet behind a bus but can sometimes extend up to 400 feet, depending on the length of the vehicle.
4. If you miss a student’s stop while bringing students home after school, you should:
Explanation
If a school bus driver forgets to stop where a student is meant to unload, the driver should not back up to the stop. Instead, they should follow established local procedures.
5. A school bus must be evacuated if:
Explanation
During emergency situations, it is usually safest for students to remain on a school bus. Evacuations are mandatory if the bus has stalled on railroad tracks, if the bus is on fire or there is a threat of fire, or if there is a hazardous materials spill. Students should be evacuated any time there is imminent danger of collision.
6. A school bus stop:
Explanation
A school bus driver should not alter the location of a bus stop without written authorization of the appropriate school district officials.
7. If a school bus needs to be evacuated, passengers should:
Explanation
If a school bus needs to be evacuated in the event of an emergency, the driver must quickly determine which exit or exits will be safest for students to use and direct the students to that exit.
Ranked by best match
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Bus endorsement in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Pennsylvania CDL: You must possess a valid Pennsylvania CDL before applying for a bus endorsement.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must meet the following eligibility requirements to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Pennsylvania:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate operation and 21 years old for interstate operation.
- Possess a valid medical certificate.
- Provide proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States.
- Have a clean driving record and pass a criminal background check.
3. Study the bus endorsement information: Study the Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Manual and specifically focus on sections related to bus operation.
4. Pass the written test: Take and pass the CDL Bus written test at a PennDOT Driver License Center. You must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly.
5. Pass the skills test: Schedule an appointment for your skills test (driving test) with PennDOT or an authorized third-party tester. The skills test will consist of performing pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
6. Pay the applicable fees: Pay the applicable fees for your CDL Bus endorsement.
Once you have successfully completed all of these steps, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement and can legally operate buses in Pennsylvania.
1. Obtain a Pennsylvania CDL: You must possess a valid Pennsylvania CDL before applying for a bus endorsement.
2. Meet the eligibility requirements: You must meet the following eligibility requirements to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Pennsylvania:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate operation and 21 years old for interstate operation.
- Possess a valid medical certificate.
- Provide proof of citizenship or legal presence in the United States.
- Have a clean driving record and pass a criminal background check.
3. Study the bus endorsement information: Study the Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Manual and specifically focus on sections related to bus operation.
4. Pass the written test: Take and pass the CDL Bus written test at a PennDOT Driver License Center. You must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly.
5. Pass the skills test: Schedule an appointment for your skills test (driving test) with PennDOT or an authorized third-party tester. The skills test will consist of performing pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.
6. Pay the applicable fees: Pay the applicable fees for your CDL Bus endorsement.
Once you have successfully completed all of these steps, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement and can legally operate buses in Pennsylvania.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Pennsylvania, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a bus within Pennsylvania state lines and 21 years old to drive across state lines.
2. License Requirement: You must possess a valid Pennsylvania Driver's License.
3. Medical Certification: You must obtain a medical certification from a qualified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
4. Criminal History Record Check: You must undergo a criminal history record check before obtaining a CDL Bus license.
5. Knowledge Test: You must pass the CDL Bus knowledge test, which covers general knowledge and specific skills related to operating a bus safely.
6. Skills Test: You must pass the CDL Bus skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and road test.
7. Fees: You must pay the appropriate fees for obtaining your CDL Bus license.
Note that some states may have additional requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus license, such as completing a training program or holding a certain type of driver's license. It is important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements.
1. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a bus within Pennsylvania state lines and 21 years old to drive across state lines.
2. License Requirement: You must possess a valid Pennsylvania Driver's License.
3. Medical Certification: You must obtain a medical certification from a qualified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
4. Criminal History Record Check: You must undergo a criminal history record check before obtaining a CDL Bus license.
5. Knowledge Test: You must pass the CDL Bus knowledge test, which covers general knowledge and specific skills related to operating a bus safely.
6. Skills Test: You must pass the CDL Bus skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and road test.
7. Fees: You must pay the appropriate fees for obtaining your CDL Bus license.
Note that some states may have additional requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus license, such as completing a training program or holding a certain type of driver's license. It is important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements.
Yes, you may need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Pennsylvania. The state of Pennsylvania requires all CDL applicants to complete a training program before taking the skills test.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also requires individuals to complete specific training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. The training must cover the following topics:
- Driver qualifications
- Hours of service
- Driver wellness
- Whistleblower protection
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Hazardous materials regulations (if applicable)
You may be able to complete this training through a commercial driving school, a community college, or an employer-sponsored program.
In addition to the required training, it can be helpful to have some experience operating a bus before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. This can include driving buses as part of your job or as a volunteer, such as driving for a church or community organization.
Note that specific requirements for CDL Bus endorsement experience and training may vary by state. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for more information on the requirements in your area.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also requires individuals to complete specific training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. The training must cover the following topics:
- Driver qualifications
- Hours of service
- Driver wellness
- Whistleblower protection
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Hazardous materials regulations (if applicable)
You may be able to complete this training through a commercial driving school, a community college, or an employer-sponsored program.
In addition to the required training, it can be helpful to have some experience operating a bus before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. This can include driving buses as part of your job or as a volunteer, such as driving for a church or community organization.
Note that specific requirements for CDL Bus endorsement experience and training may vary by state. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for more information on the requirements in your area.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Pennsylvania. The specific type of license you need depends on the type of bus you want to drive and the number of passengers you will be carrying.
The following are the classes of CDL Bus licenses in Pennsylvania:
1. Class B: This license is required to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, or to operate any vehicle towing another vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 or less pounds. This license allows you to transport more than 15 passengers.
2. Class C: This license is required to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds and to transport more than 15 passengers.
Note that there are additional endorsements that may be required depending on the type of bus you will be driving. For example, if you will be transporting hazardous materials, you will need a Hazmat endorsement in addition to your CDL Bus license.
It is important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements and restrictions related to CDL Bus licenses and endorsements.
The following are the classes of CDL Bus licenses in Pennsylvania:
1. Class B: This license is required to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, or to operate any vehicle towing another vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 or less pounds. This license allows you to transport more than 15 passengers.
2. Class C: This license is required to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds and to transport more than 15 passengers.
Note that there are additional endorsements that may be required depending on the type of bus you will be driving. For example, if you will be transporting hazardous materials, you will need a Hazmat endorsement in addition to your CDL Bus license.
It is important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements and restrictions related to CDL Bus licenses and endorsements.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Pennsylvania. You must provide a bus that meets the state's requirements for the test.
The bus you use for the test must be the same type of bus that you will be driving with your CDL Bus license. The bus must also have a valid registration, inspection sticker, and insurance.
In some cases, you may be able to use a rental or employer-provided bus for the test. However, you should check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to verify their requirements and restrictions on the use of rental or employer-provided buses for the CDL Bus driving test.
Note that you will also need to bring a licensed driver with you to the test who can drive your personal vehicle home while you take the test in the bus.
The bus you use for the test must be the same type of bus that you will be driving with your CDL Bus license. The bus must also have a valid registration, inspection sticker, and insurance.
In some cases, you may be able to use a rental or employer-provided bus for the test. However, you should check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to verify their requirements and restrictions on the use of rental or employer-provided buses for the CDL Bus driving test.
Note that you will also need to bring a licensed driver with you to the test who can drive your personal vehicle home while you take the test in the bus.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Pennsylvania. The test consists of three parts: the pre-trip inspection, basic control skills test, and the on-road driving test.
During the basic control skills test, you will be required to perform maneuvers such as straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking. You will also need to demonstrate your ability to make turns, stop smoothly, and maintain control of the bus at all times.
During the on-road driving test, you will be evaluated on your ability to obey traffic laws and safely operate the bus in a variety of driving situations. You may be asked to drive on different types of roads, make turns, change lanes, and navigate through intersections.
In addition to these specific skills and maneuvers, you will also need to demonstrate your overall knowledge of the bus and your ability to perform a pre-trip inspection. This includes checking the brakes, steering and suspension systems, tires and wheels, lights and reflectors, mirrors and windshield wipers.
It is important to review the Pennsylvania CDL Driver's Manual and practice these skills with a qualified instructor before taking the CDL Bus driving test.
During the basic control skills test, you will be required to perform maneuvers such as straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking. You will also need to demonstrate your ability to make turns, stop smoothly, and maintain control of the bus at all times.
During the on-road driving test, you will be evaluated on your ability to obey traffic laws and safely operate the bus in a variety of driving situations. You may be asked to drive on different types of roads, make turns, change lanes, and navigate through intersections.
In addition to these specific skills and maneuvers, you will also need to demonstrate your overall knowledge of the bus and your ability to perform a pre-trip inspection. This includes checking the brakes, steering and suspension systems, tires and wheels, lights and reflectors, mirrors and windshield wipers.
It is important to review the Pennsylvania CDL Driver's Manual and practice these skills with a qualified instructor before taking the CDL Bus driving test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement in Pennsylvania. To qualify for a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. You must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified Medical Examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical certificate must be renewed every two years or as required by the Medical Examiner.
2. You must meet the vision and hearing standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes having 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses) and being able to perceive a forced whisper at a distance of at least five feet.
3. You must not have any medical conditions that would affect your ability to safely operate a bus, such as epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes, or certain cardiovascular conditions.
4. You must be able to perform certain physical tasks, such as climbing into and out of the bus, manipulating the steering wheel and pedals, and adjusting mirrors and other controls.
It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the type of bus you will be driving and your specific medical history. It is recommended that you consult with a certified Medical Examiner to determine your eligibility for a CDL Bus endorsement.
1. You must have a valid medical certificate issued by a certified Medical Examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical certificate must be renewed every two years or as required by the Medical Examiner.
2. You must meet the vision and hearing standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes having 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses) and being able to perceive a forced whisper at a distance of at least five feet.
3. You must not have any medical conditions that would affect your ability to safely operate a bus, such as epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes, or certain cardiovascular conditions.
4. You must be able to perform certain physical tasks, such as climbing into and out of the bus, manipulating the steering wheel and pedals, and adjusting mirrors and other controls.
It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the type of bus you will be driving and your specific medical history. It is recommended that you consult with a certified Medical Examiner to determine your eligibility for a CDL Bus endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in Pennsylvania if the vehicle you are operating meets the definition of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). A CMV is defined as any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or any vehicle used to transport hazardous materials.
To operate a CMV that is designed to transport passengers, you must have a valid CDL with a Passenger (P) endorsement. This endorsement requires passing additional knowledge and skills tests specific to passenger transportation.
If you are caught operating a CMV designed to transport passengers without the proper CDL and endorsements, you may face fines, penalties, and even license suspension or revocation. Moreover, it could also put yourself and others in danger if you lack the necessary skills and knowledge to operate the vehicle safely.
To operate a CMV that is designed to transport passengers, you must have a valid CDL with a Passenger (P) endorsement. This endorsement requires passing additional knowledge and skills tests specific to passenger transportation.
If you are caught operating a CMV designed to transport passengers without the proper CDL and endorsements, you may face fines, penalties, and even license suspension or revocation. Moreover, it could also put yourself and others in danger if you lack the necessary skills and knowledge to operate the vehicle safely.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Pennsylvania by passing the required knowledge and skills tests and paying the appropriate fees.
To add the Bus endorsement to your CDL, you must first pass a knowledge test specific to passenger transportation. The test covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, emergency procedures, and handling hazardous materials. You must then pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test using a vehicle that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement.
Once you have passed both tests, you must pay the fee for adding the Bus endorsement to your CDL license. You will then be issued a new CDL license with the Bus endorsement added.
It is important to note that if your current CDL license is due for renewal, you may also need to renew your license at the same time you add the Bus endorsement, depending on how close you are to your expiration date.
To add the Bus endorsement to your CDL, you must first pass a knowledge test specific to passenger transportation. The test covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, emergency procedures, and handling hazardous materials. You must then pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test using a vehicle that meets the requirements for the Bus endorsement.
Once you have passed both tests, you must pay the fee for adding the Bus endorsement to your CDL license. You will then be issued a new CDL license with the Bus endorsement added.
It is important to note that if your current CDL license is due for renewal, you may also need to renew your license at the same time you add the Bus endorsement, depending on how close you are to your expiration date.
Yes, there are several restrictions or limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Pennsylvania. These restrictions are designed to ensure the safety of passengers and other road users.
Some common restrictions for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement include:
1. Passenger Endorsement (P) Required: You must have a valid CDL with the P endorsement to operate a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
2. Vehicle Type: Your CDL may be restricted to certain types of commercial motor vehicles based on the type of vehicle you were trained on and tested in.
3. Endorsement Codes: Your CDL may have specific codes that indicate which endorsements you hold, such as a School Bus (S) endorsement or a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement.
4. No Air Brakes: If you do not pass the air brake knowledge test or do not complete the air brake skills test, you will be restricted from operating any commercial motor vehicle equipped with air brakes.
5. Intrastate Only: If you do not meet the federal medical requirements or are unable to self-certify as non-excepted interstate, you may be restricted to operating commercial motor vehicles only within Pennsylvania.
It is important to note that these restrictions may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of vehicle you are operating. It is your responsibility as a CDL holder to know and follow all applicable restrictions and limitations.
Some common restrictions for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement include:
1. Passenger Endorsement (P) Required: You must have a valid CDL with the P endorsement to operate a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
2. Vehicle Type: Your CDL may be restricted to certain types of commercial motor vehicles based on the type of vehicle you were trained on and tested in.
3. Endorsement Codes: Your CDL may have specific codes that indicate which endorsements you hold, such as a School Bus (S) endorsement or a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement.
4. No Air Brakes: If you do not pass the air brake knowledge test or do not complete the air brake skills test, you will be restricted from operating any commercial motor vehicle equipped with air brakes.
5. Intrastate Only: If you do not meet the federal medical requirements or are unable to self-certify as non-excepted interstate, you may be restricted to operating commercial motor vehicles only within Pennsylvania.
It is important to note that these restrictions may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of vehicle you are operating. It is your responsibility as a CDL holder to know and follow all applicable restrictions and limitations.
