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. During a vehicle inspection, ensure that the landing gear is:
Explanation
When inspecting a trailer during a vehicle inspection test, ensure that its landing gear has no missing parts and that it is fully raised. The crank handle should be secure and the support frame should not be damaged.
2. If exiting a bus, a driver must:
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 vehicle control skills test.
3. If exiting a bus during the basic vehicle control skills test, you must:
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.
4. When students board a school bus, the driver should:
Explanation
While students are boarding a school bus, the driver should supervise the loading while watching all mirrors for any students running to catch the bus.
5. When asked to complete an offset back/right parking maneuver, you should:
Explanation
If you are asked to complete an offset back/right parking maneuver, you should first pull straight forward, then back up to the right. Your vehicle must be parked completely within the boundaries of the parking space.
6. During a basic vehicle control skills test, a look is when:
Explanation
A driver uses a look when they open their door, leave their seated position, and walk to the back of the vehicle to check its position. During the straight line backing exercise, a driver may not exceed one look. During any other exercise, a driver may not exceed two looks.
7. When taking the basic vehicle control skills test:
Explanation
During the basic vehicle control skills test, there is no penalty for an initial pull-up; however, an excessive number of pull-ups will count as errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL bus endorsement in Alabama, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a valid Alabama CDL: You must hold a valid Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before you can apply for a bus endorsement.
2. Meet the eligibility criteria: You must meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining a bus endorsement, which includes being at least 21 years old, having a clean driving record, and passing a medical examination.
3. Study for the CDL bus endorsement test: You will need to study for and pass the CDL bus endorsement test, which covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures.
4. Schedule and pass the CDL bus endorsement test: You will need to schedule an appointment at your local Alabama DPS testing facility to take the CDL bus endorsement test. The test will consist of both a written knowledge exam and a skills test that requires you to demonstrate your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
5. Pay the required fees: There will be fees associated with obtaining your CDL bus endorsement in Alabama. The fees may vary depending on your location, but typically include an application fee, testing fee, and license fee.
6. Receive your CDL with bus endorsement: Once you have passed all necessary tests and paid the required fees, you will receive your Alabama CDL with bus endorsement. You can then legally operate a commercial vehicle that requires this endorsement.
1. Obtain a valid Alabama CDL: You must hold a valid Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before you can apply for a bus endorsement.
2. Meet the eligibility criteria: You must meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining a bus endorsement, which includes being at least 21 years old, having a clean driving record, and passing a medical examination.
3. Study for the CDL bus endorsement test: You will need to study for and pass the CDL bus endorsement test, which covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures.
4. Schedule and pass the CDL bus endorsement test: You will need to schedule an appointment at your local Alabama DPS testing facility to take the CDL bus endorsement test. The test will consist of both a written knowledge exam and a skills test that requires you to demonstrate your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
5. Pay the required fees: There will be fees associated with obtaining your CDL bus endorsement in Alabama. The fees may vary depending on your location, but typically include an application fee, testing fee, and license fee.
6. Receive your CDL with bus endorsement: Once you have passed all necessary tests and paid the required fees, you will receive your Alabama CDL with bus endorsement. You can then legally operate a commercial vehicle that requires this endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Alabama, you will need to meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a CDL Bus license.
2. Valid Driver's License: You must have a valid Alabama driver's license.
3. Medical Certification: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a licensed medical examiner.
4. Knowledge Test: You must pass a written knowledge test that covers topics such as driving techniques, vehicle inspection, and safety procedures.
5. Skills Test: You must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Background Check: You will need to undergo a background check to ensure that you have not been convicted of any disqualifying offenses.
7. Fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL Bus license in Alabama, including application fees and testing fees.
Once you have met all of these requirements, you will be issued a CDL Bus license in Alabama that allows you to legally operate commercial vehicles such as buses, vans, and other passenger vehicles.
1. Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a CDL Bus license.
2. Valid Driver's License: You must have a valid Alabama driver's license.
3. Medical Certification: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a licensed medical examiner.
4. Knowledge Test: You must pass a written knowledge test that covers topics such as driving techniques, vehicle inspection, and safety procedures.
5. Skills Test: You must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Background Check: You will need to undergo a background check to ensure that you have not been convicted of any disqualifying offenses.
7. Fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL Bus license in Alabama, including application fees and testing fees.
Once you have met all of these requirements, you will be issued a CDL Bus license in Alabama that allows you to legally operate commercial vehicles such as buses, vans, and other passenger vehicles.
Yes, you will need specific experience and training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama. Here are the requirements:
1. Hold a valid CDL license: You must already hold a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in order to apply for a CDL Bus endorsement.
2. Complete the CDL Bus endorsement application: You will need to fill out and submit an application for the CDL Bus endorsement.
3. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test: You will need to pass a written knowledge test that covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures.
4. Complete a skills test: You will need to complete a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
5. Obtain proper training: You will need to obtain proper training in order to operate a bus safely. This training can come from a driving school, employer, or other approved training program.
6. Meet experience requirements: To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama, you must have at least one year of experience operating a commercial vehicle with your CDL license.
7. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check to ensure you do not have any disqualifying offenses on your record.
Once you have met all of these requirements, you will be issued a CDL Bus endorsement on your Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL), which will allow you to legally operate commercial buses in the state of Alabama.
1. Hold a valid CDL license: You must already hold a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in order to apply for a CDL Bus endorsement.
2. Complete the CDL Bus endorsement application: You will need to fill out and submit an application for the CDL Bus endorsement.
3. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test: You will need to pass a written knowledge test that covers topics such as loading and unloading passengers, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures.
4. Complete a skills test: You will need to complete a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
5. Obtain proper training: You will need to obtain proper training in order to operate a bus safely. This training can come from a driving school, employer, or other approved training program.
6. Meet experience requirements: To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama, you must have at least one year of experience operating a commercial vehicle with your CDL license.
7. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check to ensure you do not have any disqualifying offenses on your record.
Once you have met all of these requirements, you will be issued a CDL Bus endorsement on your Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL), which will allow you to legally operate commercial buses in the state of Alabama.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Alabama. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established three classes of CDL licenses: Class A, Class B, and Class C. The type of CDL Bus license you need will depend on the size and weight of the vehicle you will be operating, as well as the number of passengers you will be transporting.
Here are the differences between each class:
1. Class A CDL: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, including a towed vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds. This license is typically required for driving tractor-trailers.
2. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds but with a towed vehicle weighing less than 10,000 pounds. This license is typically required for driving buses.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate single vehicles or combinations of vehicles that do not meet the criteria for either Class A or Class B licenses and are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
In addition to the class of license, there are also different endorsements that can be added to your CDL Bus license depending on the type of vehicle you will be operating and the cargo you will be transporting. Examples include passenger endorsement (P), which is required for drivers who transport passengers in buses, and hazardous materials endorsement (H), which is required for drivers who transport hazardous materials.
Here are the differences between each class:
1. Class A CDL: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, including a towed vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds. This license is typically required for driving tractor-trailers.
2. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds but with a towed vehicle weighing less than 10,000 pounds. This license is typically required for driving buses.
3. Class C CDL: This license allows you to operate single vehicles or combinations of vehicles that do not meet the criteria for either Class A or Class B licenses and are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials.
In addition to the class of license, there are also different endorsements that can be added to your CDL Bus license depending on the type of vehicle you will be operating and the cargo you will be transporting. Examples include passenger endorsement (P), which is required for drivers who transport passengers in buses, and hazardous materials endorsement (H), which is required for drivers who transport hazardous materials.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Alabama. You will be required to use a vehicle that meets the specific requirements for the type of CDL license you are testing for. For example, if you are testing for a Class B CDL Bus license, you will need to use a Class B vehicle that is designed to carry passengers.
The vehicle used for the test must also meet other safety and operational requirements, such as having working brakes and mirrors, and being properly licensed and insured. The vehicle must also be in good working condition and free from defects that could affect its safety or operability.
In most cases, the testing facility will provide a vehicle for you to use during the CDL Bus driving test. This vehicle will be inspected to ensure it meets all of the necessary requirements before the test begins. You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle and complete a variety of maneuvers, such as backing up, turning, and parking. If you successfully complete the driving test, you will be issued a CDL Bus license or endorsement that allows you to legally operate commercial buses in Alabama.
The vehicle used for the test must also meet other safety and operational requirements, such as having working brakes and mirrors, and being properly licensed and insured. The vehicle must also be in good working condition and free from defects that could affect its safety or operability.
In most cases, the testing facility will provide a vehicle for you to use during the CDL Bus driving test. This vehicle will be inspected to ensure it meets all of the necessary requirements before the test begins. You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle and complete a variety of maneuvers, such as backing up, turning, and parking. If you successfully complete the driving test, you will be issued a CDL Bus license or endorsement that allows you to legally operate commercial buses in Alabama.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Alabama. The test is designed to evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial bus and includes both a pre-trip inspection and a driving skills test.
During the driving skills test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to perform a variety of maneuvers, including:
1. Straight line backing: You will be required to back your bus in a straight line for a set distance.
2. Offset backing: You will be required to back your bus into a space that is offset from your starting position.
3. Parallel parking: You will be required to parallel park your bus between two cones or other obstacles.
4. Right turn: You will be required to successfully complete a right turn without hitting any cones or other obstacles.
5. Left turn: You will be required to successfully complete a left turn without hitting any cones or other obstacles.
6. Lane change: You will be required to successfully change lanes without hitting any cones or other obstacles.
7. Controlled stop: You will be required to bring the bus to a controlled stop within a certain distance.
In addition to these maneuvers, you will also need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the bus on public roads while obeying all traffic laws and regulations. The examiner will evaluate your ability to check mirrors, signal turns, properly shift gears, and perform other tasks related to safe operation of the vehicle.
It is important to note that the specific maneuvers and skills tested may vary based on the type of CDL Bus license you are testing for, as well as the testing location and examiner. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements for your specific test before taking it.
During the driving skills test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to perform a variety of maneuvers, including:
1. Straight line backing: You will be required to back your bus in a straight line for a set distance.
2. Offset backing: You will be required to back your bus into a space that is offset from your starting position.
3. Parallel parking: You will be required to parallel park your bus between two cones or other obstacles.
4. Right turn: You will be required to successfully complete a right turn without hitting any cones or other obstacles.
5. Left turn: You will be required to successfully complete a left turn without hitting any cones or other obstacles.
6. Lane change: You will be required to successfully change lanes without hitting any cones or other obstacles.
7. Controlled stop: You will be required to bring the bus to a controlled stop within a certain distance.
In addition to these maneuvers, you will also need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the bus on public roads while obeying all traffic laws and regulations. The examiner will evaluate your ability to check mirrors, signal turns, properly shift gears, and perform other tasks related to safe operation of the vehicle.
It is important to note that the specific maneuvers and skills tested may vary based on the type of CDL Bus license you are testing for, as well as the testing location and examiner. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements for your specific test before taking it.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the minimum medical and physical qualifications for all commercial drivers, including those with a CDL Bus endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Medical examination: You must pass a medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical examiner will evaluate your overall health and perform tests to check your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
2. Medical conditions: You must not have any medical conditions that could interfere with your ability to safely operate a commercial bus. Examples of disqualifying conditions include insulin-dependent diabetes, sleep apnea, and certain heart conditions.
3. Physical requirements: You must meet certain physical requirements to ensure you can safely operate a commercial bus. These requirements include having good hearing and vision, as well as being able to perform basic tasks such as climbing in and out of the vehicle and reaching overhead to operate controls.
4. Drug and alcohol testing: You must pass drug and alcohol testing before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. This includes pre-employment testing as well as random testing throughout your career as a commercial driver.
It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change based on updates from the FMCSA or other regulatory agencies. It is recommended that you check with your local DMV or licensing agency for the most up-to-date information on obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Medical examination: You must pass a medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical examiner will evaluate your overall health and perform tests to check your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
2. Medical conditions: You must not have any medical conditions that could interfere with your ability to safely operate a commercial bus. Examples of disqualifying conditions include insulin-dependent diabetes, sleep apnea, and certain heart conditions.
3. Physical requirements: You must meet certain physical requirements to ensure you can safely operate a commercial bus. These requirements include having good hearing and vision, as well as being able to perform basic tasks such as climbing in and out of the vehicle and reaching overhead to operate controls.
4. Drug and alcohol testing: You must pass drug and alcohol testing before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. This includes pre-employment testing as well as random testing throughout your career as a commercial driver.
It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change based on updates from the FMCSA or other regulatory agencies. It is recommended that you check with your local DMV or licensing agency for the most up-to-date information on obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers for hire in a commercial bus without a CDL Bus endorsement. In Alabama, as in all other states, it is illegal to operate a commercial bus without a CDL with the appropriate endorsement.
A CDL Bus endorsement is required for drivers who operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This includes vehicles such as city buses, charter buses, and school buses.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must pass the required knowledge and skills tests and meet the medical and physical qualifications set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It is important to note that driving a commercial bus without the proper license and endorsements can result in fines, penalties, and even criminal charges.
If you are interested in transporting passengers for hire, it is important to obtain the appropriate license and endorsements before beginning your career as a commercial driver.
A CDL Bus endorsement is required for drivers who operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This includes vehicles such as city buses, charter buses, and school buses.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must pass the required knowledge and skills tests and meet the medical and physical qualifications set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It is important to note that driving a commercial bus without the proper license and endorsements can result in fines, penalties, and even criminal charges.
If you are interested in transporting passengers for hire, it is important to obtain the appropriate license and endorsements before beginning your career as a commercial driver.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Alabama. To add the endorsement, you will need to pass the necessary knowledge and skills tests and meet the medical and physical qualifications set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Here are the steps you need to follow to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license:
1. Study for the CDL Bus endorsement test: Review the Alabama CDL handbook and study material related to passenger transport, such as safety regulations, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
2. Take and pass the written test: Schedule an appointment with your local DMV office to take the written test for the CDL Bus endorsement. You must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly to pass.
3. Schedule and take the skills test: Once you have passed the written test, schedule a skills test with an approved testing facility or examiner in your area. The skills test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers.
4. Complete a Medical Examination Report: You must also complete a Medical Examination Report (Form MCSA-5875) with a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
5. Submit required documentation: Submit all required documentation, including proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency, proof of residency in Alabama, and payment of necessary fees.
Once you have completed these steps, you will receive a new CDL license with the added Bus endorsement. It is important to note that you must maintain your medical certification and comply with all other requirements for commercial drivers in order to keep your CDL Bus endorsement valid.
Here are the steps you need to follow to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license:
1. Study for the CDL Bus endorsement test: Review the Alabama CDL handbook and study material related to passenger transport, such as safety regulations, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
2. Take and pass the written test: Schedule an appointment with your local DMV office to take the written test for the CDL Bus endorsement. You must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly to pass.
3. Schedule and take the skills test: Once you have passed the written test, schedule a skills test with an approved testing facility or examiner in your area. The skills test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers.
4. Complete a Medical Examination Report: You must also complete a Medical Examination Report (Form MCSA-5875) with a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
5. Submit required documentation: Submit all required documentation, including proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency, proof of residency in Alabama, and payment of necessary fees.
Once you have completed these steps, you will receive a new CDL license with the added Bus endorsement. It is important to note that you must maintain your medical certification and comply with all other requirements for commercial drivers in order to keep your CDL Bus endorsement valid.
Yes, there are certain restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama. Here are some of the most important ones:
1. Passenger Limitations: A CDL Bus endorsement only allows you to transport passengers and cannot be used for other types of commercial driving, such as hauling freight or hazardous materials.
2. Age Limitations: In Alabama, you must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, but you may only operate a commercial bus across state lines if you are at least 21 years old.
3. Medical Qualifications: As a commercial bus driver, you must meet certain medical qualifications and maintain a valid medical certification at all times. You must also report any changes in your medical status to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
4. Hours of Service: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets limits on the number of hours that commercial drivers can work in a day or week. As a CDL Bus driver, you must comply with these hours of service regulations to ensure that you are not driving fatigued or putting passengers at risk.
5. Drug and Alcohol Testing: Commercial drivers are subject to drug and alcohol testing programs that require them to undergo regular testing throughout their careers. As a CDL Bus driver, you must comply with these testing requirements and may be subject to additional tests if suspected of drug or alcohol use.
It is important to understand and comply with these restrictions and limitations as a CDL Bus driver in Alabama to ensure that you are driving safely and within the law.
1. Passenger Limitations: A CDL Bus endorsement only allows you to transport passengers and cannot be used for other types of commercial driving, such as hauling freight or hazardous materials.
2. Age Limitations: In Alabama, you must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, but you may only operate a commercial bus across state lines if you are at least 21 years old.
3. Medical Qualifications: As a commercial bus driver, you must meet certain medical qualifications and maintain a valid medical certification at all times. You must also report any changes in your medical status to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
4. Hours of Service: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets limits on the number of hours that commercial drivers can work in a day or week. As a CDL Bus driver, you must comply with these hours of service regulations to ensure that you are not driving fatigued or putting passengers at risk.
5. Drug and Alcohol Testing: Commercial drivers are subject to drug and alcohol testing programs that require them to undergo regular testing throughout their careers. As a CDL Bus driver, you must comply with these testing requirements and may be subject to additional tests if suspected of drug or alcohol use.
It is important to understand and comply with these restrictions and limitations as a CDL Bus driver in Alabama to ensure that you are driving safely and within the law.
