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 Alaska 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. The overhead inside rearview mirror should be positioned to show:
Explanation
The top portion of the overhead inside rearview mirror should be positioned to display the top of the bus's rear window. This mirror positioning should allow the driver to see all of the students on the bus, including the heads of the students sitting immediately behind the driver.
2. When completing a conventional parallel parking maneuver, you should:
Explanation
You may be asked to complete a conventional parallel parking maneuver into a parking space that is to the right of your vehicle. You should drive past the parking space before backing into it while bringing the rear of your vehicle as close to the rear of the space as possible. Your vehicle should be completely within the boundaries of the space.
3. If a driver needs to exit a school bus to ensure all waiting students have boarded, the driver should:
Explanation
While students are boarding a school bus, if the driver cannot account for a student outside, they should secure the bus, take the key with them, and check around and underneath the bus for the missing student.
4. If a gate controlling a railroad crossing does not go back up after a train passes, you should:
Explanation
If you are stopped at a railroad crossing and a gate fails to return to its open position after a train passes, call your dispatcher. Do not attempt to drive around the lowered gate.
5. A bus driver approaching a bus stop should stop at least 10 feet away from waiting students because:
Explanation
At a stop, a school bus should be stopped with the front bumper at least 10 feet away from the students. This forces the students to walk toward the bus, allowing the driver to keep an eye on their movements.
6. As students exit a school bus, the driver should watch to ensure that they:
Explanation
It is possible for students to be injured, or even killed, as a result of their clothing, accessories, or bodies getting caught on a handrail or door while exiting a school bus. The driver should closely watch students as they exit to ensure that they have all unloaded the bus successfully and have reached a safe location.
7. If your bus has a manual transmission, what should you never do when crossing railroad tracks?
Explanation
Do not shift gears while crossing railroad tracks. Your vehicle could stall and get stuck in the crossing.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alaska, you need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge tests for the CDL Bus endorsement and any other endorsements you need for your specific driving situation.
2. Practice driving with your CLP and any required endorsements under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder.
3. Schedule and pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement, such as a school bus or passenger bus.
4. Submit your passing test score and pay the required fee to the Alaska DMV.
5. Once your endorsement is added to your CDL, you can legally operate a bus or other large passenger vehicle on Alaska roads.
Note that the specific requirements and fees for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement may vary depending on factors such as your age, driving history, and the type of bus you plan to drive. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV for detailed information on the process and any additional requirements or restrictions that may apply to your situation.
1. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP) by passing the written knowledge tests for the CDL Bus endorsement and any other endorsements you need for your specific driving situation.
2. Practice driving with your CLP and any required endorsements under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder.
3. Schedule and pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement, such as a school bus or passenger bus.
4. Submit your passing test score and pay the required fee to the Alaska DMV.
5. Once your endorsement is added to your CDL, you can legally operate a bus or other large passenger vehicle on Alaska roads.
Note that the specific requirements and fees for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement may vary depending on factors such as your age, driving history, and the type of bus you plan to drive. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV for detailed information on the process and any additional requirements or restrictions that may apply to your situation.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Alaska, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a bus within the state of Alaska. If you plan to drive a bus across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Valid Alaska driver's license: You must have a valid Alaska driver's license to apply for a CDL Bus license.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a medical examination and get certified by a medical professional as physically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle.
4. Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): Before you can take the CDL skills test for the Bus endorsement, you need to obtain a CLP by passing the written knowledge tests for the CDL and any other endorsements you need for your specific driving situation.
5. Skills test: You must pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement, such as a school bus or passenger bus.
6. Background check: You may be required to undergo a background check in order to obtain your CDL Bus license.
Note that these are general requirements and there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your specific situation. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV for detailed information on how to obtain your CDL Bus license and any other endorsements you may need.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a bus within the state of Alaska. If you plan to drive a bus across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Valid Alaska driver's license: You must have a valid Alaska driver's license to apply for a CDL Bus license.
3. Medical certification: You must pass a medical examination and get certified by a medical professional as physically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle.
4. Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): Before you can take the CDL skills test for the Bus endorsement, you need to obtain a CLP by passing the written knowledge tests for the CDL and any other endorsements you need for your specific driving situation.
5. Skills test: You must pass a CDL skills test in a vehicle that requires a Bus endorsement, such as a school bus or passenger bus.
6. Background check: You may be required to undergo a background check in order to obtain your CDL Bus license.
Note that these are general requirements and there may be additional requirements or restrictions depending on your specific situation. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV for detailed information on how to obtain your CDL Bus license and any other endorsements you may need.
Yes, you may need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alaska. The State of Alaska requires that you complete a training program and/or have a certain amount of experience before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
Here are the specific requirements:
1. Passenger endorsement: If you plan to drive a bus designed to transport 16 or more people (including the driver), you must obtain a Passenger endorsement on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written knowledge test and complete a skills test in a passenger vehicle.
2. School bus endorsement: If you plan to drive a school bus, you must obtain a School Bus endorsement on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must complete a training program that includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, in addition to passing the written knowledge and skills tests.
3. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations: You must also comply with FMCSA regulations, which require certain training and certification for drivers of commercial motor vehicles.
Note that the specific requirements for training and experience may vary depending on your situation and the type of bus you plan to drive. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV and FMCSA for detailed information on the requirements for obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement.
Here are the specific requirements:
1. Passenger endorsement: If you plan to drive a bus designed to transport 16 or more people (including the driver), you must obtain a Passenger endorsement on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written knowledge test and complete a skills test in a passenger vehicle.
2. School bus endorsement: If you plan to drive a school bus, you must obtain a School Bus endorsement on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must complete a training program that includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, in addition to passing the written knowledge and skills tests.
3. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations: You must also comply with FMCSA regulations, which require certain training and certification for drivers of commercial motor vehicles.
Note that the specific requirements for training and experience may vary depending on your situation and the type of bus you plan to drive. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV and FMCSA for detailed information on the requirements for obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Alaska. The specific type of license you need depends on the weight of the vehicle you plan to drive and the number of passengers you plan to transport.
Here are the three classes of CDL Bus licenses in Alaska:
1. Class B: This type of license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of less than 26,001 pounds. This class also includes buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) but less than 26,001 pounds.
2. Class C: This type of license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds. This class includes buses designed to transport fewer than 16 passengers (including the driver).
3. Class A: This type of license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds. This class also includes buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) and have a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
Note that there may be additional endorsements required for specific types of buses or cargo being transported. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV for detailed information on which class and endorsements you need for your specific situation.
Here are the three classes of CDL Bus licenses in Alaska:
1. Class B: This type of license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of less than 26,001 pounds. This class also includes buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) but less than 26,001 pounds.
2. Class C: This type of license allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds. This class includes buses designed to transport fewer than 16 passengers (including the driver).
3. Class A: This type of license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds. This class also includes buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) and have a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
Note that there may be additional endorsements required for specific types of buses or cargo being transported. Be sure to check with the Alaska DMV for detailed information on which class and endorsements you need for your specific situation.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Alaska. You must use a vehicle that meets the requirements for the specific class of CDL you're applying for, and that is owned or leased by the motor carrier or driving school that is sponsoring your CDL training.
The Alaska DMV requires that all vehicles used for the CDL driving test must be in safe operating condition, have a valid registration and insurance, and meet specific equipment requirements. For example, the vehicle must have a seat belt for the examiner, functioning turn signals, and a horn.
Additionally, the vehicle must meet certain size and weight requirements based on the class of CDL you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a Class B CDL with a passenger endorsement, the vehicle used for your test must have a GVWR of at least 26,001 pounds and be designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
In summary, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Alaska. You must use a vehicle that meets all DMV requirements and is owned or leased by a motor carrier or driving school.
The Alaska DMV requires that all vehicles used for the CDL driving test must be in safe operating condition, have a valid registration and insurance, and meet specific equipment requirements. For example, the vehicle must have a seat belt for the examiner, functioning turn signals, and a horn.
Additionally, the vehicle must meet certain size and weight requirements based on the class of CDL you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a Class B CDL with a passenger endorsement, the vehicle used for your test must have a GVWR of at least 26,001 pounds and be designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
In summary, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Alaska. You must use a vehicle that meets all DMV requirements and is owned or leased by a motor carrier or driving school.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in Alaska, you will need to demonstrate your ability to perform a variety of skills and maneuvers in a safe and controlled manner. Here are some of the skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the test:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to demonstrate your ability to inspect the vehicle for safety before beginning your trip. This includes checking things like brakes, tires, lights, and other systems.
2. Basic control: You will be asked to perform various maneuvers to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in tight spaces. This may include backing up in a straight line, backing around a corner, or parallel parking.
3. Road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on public roads. This includes things like starting and stopping smoothly, accelerating and braking in a controlled manner, turning and changing lanes safely, and obeying traffic laws.
4. Special skills: Depending on the type of CDL Bus license you're applying for, you may be asked to demonstrate additional skills related to passenger safety or other specialized requirements. For example, if you're applying for a passenger endorsement, you may be asked to demonstrate your ability to load and unload passengers safely.
It's important to note that the specific skills and maneuvers you'll be asked to perform during the CDL Bus driving test may vary depending on the examiner and other factors. Be sure to practice all of these skills thoroughly with a qualified instructor before taking the test.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to demonstrate your ability to inspect the vehicle for safety before beginning your trip. This includes checking things like brakes, tires, lights, and other systems.
2. Basic control: You will be asked to perform various maneuvers to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in tight spaces. This may include backing up in a straight line, backing around a corner, or parallel parking.
3. Road driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on public roads. This includes things like starting and stopping smoothly, accelerating and braking in a controlled manner, turning and changing lanes safely, and obeying traffic laws.
4. Special skills: Depending on the type of CDL Bus license you're applying for, you may be asked to demonstrate additional skills related to passenger safety or other specialized requirements. For example, if you're applying for a passenger endorsement, you may be asked to demonstrate your ability to load and unload passengers safely.
It's important to note that the specific skills and maneuvers you'll be asked to perform during the CDL Bus driving test may vary depending on the examiner and other factors. Be sure to practice all of these skills thoroughly with a qualified instructor before taking the test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement in Alaska. These requirements are in place to ensure that commercial drivers are physically capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle with passengers on board. Here are some of the key medical and physical requirements:
1. Vision: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses. You must also have a horizontal field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
2. Hearing: You must be able to perceive a forced whisper at a distance of at least 5 feet with or without a hearing aid.
3. Blood pressure: Your blood pressure must be below 160/100. If your blood pressure is between 140/90 and 159/99, you may still qualify for a CDL Bus endorsement, but you'll need to obtain an exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you'll need to provide documentation from your treating physician indicating that your diabetes is under control.
5. Other medical conditions: If you have certain medical conditions such as epilepsy, heart disease, or respiratory issues, you may need to obtain an exemption from the FMCSA before you can qualify for a CDL Bus endorsement.
In addition to these medical requirements, you'll also need to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam every two years to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement. This exam is designed to ensure that you're physically capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle with passengers on board.
1. Vision: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses. You must also have a horizontal field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
2. Hearing: You must be able to perceive a forced whisper at a distance of at least 5 feet with or without a hearing aid.
3. Blood pressure: Your blood pressure must be below 160/100. If your blood pressure is between 140/90 and 159/99, you may still qualify for a CDL Bus endorsement, but you'll need to obtain an exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you'll need to provide documentation from your treating physician indicating that your diabetes is under control.
5. Other medical conditions: If you have certain medical conditions such as epilepsy, heart disease, or respiratory issues, you may need to obtain an exemption from the FMCSA before you can qualify for a CDL Bus endorsement.
In addition to these medical requirements, you'll also need to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam every two years to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement. This exam is designed to ensure that you're physically capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle with passengers on board.
No, you cannot transport passengers for hire without a CDL Bus endorsement. In Alaska, if you're driving a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), you'll need to have a CDL Bus endorsement on your commercial driver's license. This includes vehicles like buses, vans, and shuttles used for public transportation, school buses, and other types of passenger vehicles.
Without a CDL Bus endorsement, you're not legally authorized to transport passengers for hire. Doing so could result in fines, penalties, and legal repercussions. Additionally, if you're involved in an accident while transporting passengers without the proper endorsement on your CDL, your insurance may not cover any damages or injuries that result from the accident.
It's important to note that even if you have a regular passenger vehicle driver's license (Class D), this does not qualify you to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers. If you're interested in driving a commercial vehicle with passengers on board, you'll need to obtain the proper endorsements and training required by the Alaska DMV.
Without a CDL Bus endorsement, you're not legally authorized to transport passengers for hire. Doing so could result in fines, penalties, and legal repercussions. Additionally, if you're involved in an accident while transporting passengers without the proper endorsement on your CDL, your insurance may not cover any damages or injuries that result from the accident.
It's important to note that even if you have a regular passenger vehicle driver's license (Class D), this does not qualify you to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers. If you're interested in driving a commercial vehicle with passengers on board, you'll need to obtain the proper endorsements and training required by the Alaska DMV.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Alaska. To add the endorsement, you'll need to pass the knowledge and skills tests required for the CDL Bus endorsement and submit an application for a new license with the endorsement listed. Here are the steps you'll need to follow:
1. Study for the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test: You'll need to study the Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual and other materials related to driving commercial vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
2. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test: You'll need to take and pass a written knowledge test that covers topics like passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
3. Schedule and pass a CDL Bus endorsement skills test: This test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers. The skills test will include both a pre-trip inspection and an on-road driving test.
4. Submit an application for a new license with the CDL Bus endorsement: Once you've passed both tests, you'll need to submit an application for a new license with the Alaska DMV. You can do this online or in person at a DMV office.
It's important to note that adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing license may require additional fees, and you may need to renew your license earlier than your current expiration date. Additionally, you'll need to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement by completing any required training or testing on a regular basis.
1. Study for the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test: You'll need to study the Alaska Commercial Driver License Manual and other materials related to driving commercial vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
2. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test: You'll need to take and pass a written knowledge test that covers topics like passenger safety, loading and unloading passengers, and emergency procedures.
3. Schedule and pass a CDL Bus endorsement skills test: This test will evaluate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers. The skills test will include both a pre-trip inspection and an on-road driving test.
4. Submit an application for a new license with the CDL Bus endorsement: Once you've passed both tests, you'll need to submit an application for a new license with the Alaska DMV. You can do this online or in person at a DMV office.
It's important to note that adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing license may require additional fees, and you may need to renew your license earlier than your current expiration date. Additionally, you'll need to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement by completing any required training or testing on a regular basis.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Alaska. Here are some of the key restrictions and limitations to keep in mind:
1. Passenger limit: With a CDL Bus endorsement, you're authorized to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). However, there may be additional restrictions on the number of passengers you can transport based on the specific vehicle you're driving and its seating capacity.
2. Endorsement expiration: Your CDL Bus endorsement will expire every four years, and you'll need to complete any required training or testing to renew it.
3. Medical certification: To maintain your CDL Bus endorsement, you'll need to pass a medical exam every two years. This exam will evaluate your physical fitness to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Record keeping: If you're transporting passengers for hire, you'll need to maintain accurate records of your driving time and rest periods to comply with federal hours-of-service regulations.
5. Background check: You may be subject to a criminal background check when applying for your CDL Bus endorsement, and certain criminal convictions could disqualify you from obtaining or maintaining the endorsement.
It's important to understand and comply with these restrictions and limitations when operating a commercial vehicle with a CDL Bus endorsement in Alaska. Failure to do so could result in fines, penalties, or other legal repercussions.
1. Passenger limit: With a CDL Bus endorsement, you're authorized to operate a commercial vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). However, there may be additional restrictions on the number of passengers you can transport based on the specific vehicle you're driving and its seating capacity.
2. Endorsement expiration: Your CDL Bus endorsement will expire every four years, and you'll need to complete any required training or testing to renew it.
3. Medical certification: To maintain your CDL Bus endorsement, you'll need to pass a medical exam every two years. This exam will evaluate your physical fitness to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Record keeping: If you're transporting passengers for hire, you'll need to maintain accurate records of your driving time and rest periods to comply with federal hours-of-service regulations.
5. Background check: You may be subject to a criminal background check when applying for your CDL Bus endorsement, and certain criminal convictions could disqualify you from obtaining or maintaining the endorsement.
It's important to understand and comply with these restrictions and limitations when operating a commercial vehicle with a CDL Bus endorsement in Alaska. Failure to do so could result in fines, penalties, or other legal repercussions.
