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 Connecticut 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. If approaching a railroad crossing while driving a placarded vehicle, you should always:
Explanation
If approaching a railroad crossing while driving a transit bus, school bus, or placarded vehicle, special procedures apply. Before crossing, stop your vehicle within 50 feet of, but not less than 15 feet from, the nearest rail. Activate your four-way flashers while crossing. Do not stop, change gears, or change lanes while any part of your vehicle is proceeding across the tracks.
2. When driving a school bus, mirrors should be adjusted:
Explanation
You should always check the adjustment of all your mirrors before operating a school bus.
3. During a vehicle inspection, ensure that lug nuts are all of the following, except:
Explanation
During a vehicle inspection test, you must ensure that all lug nuts are present, free of cracks and distortions, and showing no signs of looseness, such as rust trails or shiny threads. Verify that all bolt holes are free of cracks and distortions.
4. During the on-road driving test, you must do all of the following, except:
Explanation
You must drive in a safe and responsible manner during the on-road driving test. This includes wearing your safety belt; obeying all traffic signs, signals, and laws; and completing the test without an accident or moving violation.
5. When inspecting engine compartment belts during the vehicle inspection test:
Explanation
When checking the engine compartment during the vehicle inspection test, you must check the power steering, water pump, alternator, and air compressor belts. In addition to cracks and frays, you should check the belts for snugness, allowing up to three-quarters of an inch of play at the center of each belt. If any of these items are not belt-driven, you must identify them and ensure that their components are operating properly, are not damaged or leaking, and are mounted securely.
6. If you must drive in reverse at a student pick-up point, you should:
Explanation
Backing in a school bus is strongly discouraged and should be done only if there is no other safe way to move the vehicle. If you must drive in reverse at a student pick-up point, you should wait until all students have first loaded the bus.
7. When students are being picked up by a school bus:
Explanation
A school bus driver should load and unload students only at designated stops that have been approved by appropriate school district officials.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a valid Connecticut CDL: You need to have a valid Connecticut Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before you can apply for any endorsements.
2. Complete the necessary training: You must complete the necessary training for driving a bus. This training can be obtained from an approved CDL training school.
3. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement written exam: After completing the necessary training, you must pass the CDL Bus endorsement written exam. You can schedule an appointment at a DMV office to take this exam.
4. Pass a skills and road test: Once you have passed the written exam, you must pass a skills and road test to demonstrate your ability to operate a bus safely.
5. Submit required documentation: You will need to submit certain documentation to obtain your CDL Bus endorsement, including your valid CDL license and proof of completing the necessary training.
6. Pay the required fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut, which must be paid at the time of application.
It is important to note that there are age and medical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut, so be sure to check those before beginning the process.
1. Obtain a valid Connecticut CDL: You need to have a valid Connecticut Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before you can apply for any endorsements.
2. Complete the necessary training: You must complete the necessary training for driving a bus. This training can be obtained from an approved CDL training school.
3. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement written exam: After completing the necessary training, you must pass the CDL Bus endorsement written exam. You can schedule an appointment at a DMV office to take this exam.
4. Pass a skills and road test: Once you have passed the written exam, you must pass a skills and road test to demonstrate your ability to operate a bus safely.
5. Submit required documentation: You will need to submit certain documentation to obtain your CDL Bus endorsement, including your valid CDL license and proof of completing the necessary training.
6. Pay the required fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut, which must be paid at the time of application.
It is important to note that there are age and medical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut, so be sure to check those before beginning the process.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Connecticut, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a CDL Bus license. However, you must be 21 years of age to transport passengers across state lines or hazardous materials.
2. Driving Experience: You must have a valid driver's license and have at least two years of driving experience. This experience can be from driving any type of vehicle.
3. Medical Qualifications: You must meet the medical qualifications set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes passing a physical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner.
4. Knowledge Tests: You must pass the knowledge tests for the CDL Bus license. The tests cover topics such as vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and transporting passengers.
5. Skills Tests: You must pass the skills test for the CDL Bus license. This test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
6. Background Check: You must pass a background check before obtaining your CDL Bus license.
7. Fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL Bus license, which must be paid at the time of application.
It is important to note that there may be additional requirements or restrictions based on your specific situation or the type of bus you will be operating, so it is important to check with your local DMV office for more information.
1. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a CDL Bus license. However, you must be 21 years of age to transport passengers across state lines or hazardous materials.
2. Driving Experience: You must have a valid driver's license and have at least two years of driving experience. This experience can be from driving any type of vehicle.
3. Medical Qualifications: You must meet the medical qualifications set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes passing a physical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner.
4. Knowledge Tests: You must pass the knowledge tests for the CDL Bus license. The tests cover topics such as vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and transporting passengers.
5. Skills Tests: You must pass the skills test for the CDL Bus license. This test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving skills.
6. Background Check: You must pass a background check before obtaining your CDL Bus license.
7. Fees: There are fees associated with obtaining a CDL Bus license, which must be paid at the time of application.
It is important to note that there may be additional requirements or restrictions based on your specific situation or the type of bus you will be operating, so it is important to check with your local DMV office for more information.
Yes, you need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must have completed the necessary training for driving a bus. This training can be obtained from an approved CDL training school. The school must be certified by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
During the training, you will learn about topics such as passenger safety, bus inspection, and handling emergency situations. You will also learn how to operate the bus safely in different road and weather conditions.
After completing the training, you will need to pass the CDL Bus endorsement written exam and a skills and road test to demonstrate your ability to operate a bus safely.
It is important to note that some employers may require additional training or experience before hiring you as a bus driver. It is also important to keep your skills up-to-date through ongoing training and education.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must have completed the necessary training for driving a bus. This training can be obtained from an approved CDL training school. The school must be certified by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
During the training, you will learn about topics such as passenger safety, bus inspection, and handling emergency situations. You will also learn how to operate the bus safely in different road and weather conditions.
After completing the training, you will need to pass the CDL Bus endorsement written exam and a skills and road test to demonstrate your ability to operate a bus safely.
It is important to note that some employers may require additional training or experience before hiring you as a bus driver. It is also important to keep your skills up-to-date through ongoing training and education.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Connecticut. The classes are based on the weight of the vehicle and the number of passengers it can carry.
The following are the different classes of CDL Bus licenses in Connecticut:
1. Class B CDL Bus License: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more. You can also operate a bus with a seating capacity of 24 passengers or more.
2. Class C CDL Bus License: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of less than 26,001 pounds that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
It is important to note that there may be additional endorsements required depending on the type of bus you will be operating, such as a Passenger endorsement or a School Bus endorsement. These endorsements require additional skills tests and knowledge tests.
The following are the different classes of CDL Bus licenses in Connecticut:
1. Class B CDL Bus License: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more. You can also operate a bus with a seating capacity of 24 passengers or more.
2. Class C CDL Bus License: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of less than 26,001 pounds that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
It is important to note that there may be additional endorsements required depending on the type of bus you will be operating, such as a Passenger endorsement or a School Bus endorsement. These endorsements require additional skills tests and knowledge tests.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Connecticut.
The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires you to use a vehicle that meets the requirements for the class of CDL Bus license you are applying for. This means that the vehicle must have a GVWR that meets or exceeds the weight limit for the class of license, and it must have the necessary equipment and features required for a bus.
Additionally, the vehicle must be owned or leased by a company or organization that is authorized to operate commercial vehicles. You cannot use a personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test, even if it meets the weight and equipment requirements.
The DMV will provide a testing vehicle for you to use during the skills test. This vehicle will be inspected to ensure that it meets all necessary requirements. You will need to demonstrate your ability to operate this vehicle safely in order to pass the CDL Bus driving test and obtain your license.
The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires you to use a vehicle that meets the requirements for the class of CDL Bus license you are applying for. This means that the vehicle must have a GVWR that meets or exceeds the weight limit for the class of license, and it must have the necessary equipment and features required for a bus.
Additionally, the vehicle must be owned or leased by a company or organization that is authorized to operate commercial vehicles. You cannot use a personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test, even if it meets the weight and equipment requirements.
The DMV will provide a testing vehicle for you to use during the skills test. This vehicle will be inspected to ensure that it meets all necessary requirements. You will need to demonstrate your ability to operate this vehicle safely in order to pass the CDL Bus driving test and obtain your license.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in Connecticut, you will need to demonstrate a variety of skills and maneuvers. These skills and maneuvers are designed to test your ability to safely operate a bus in real-world situations.
The following are some examples of the skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the CDL Bus driving test:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle and its components by conducting a pre-trip inspection. This involves checking the brakes, lights, tires, steering, and other systems.
2. Basic control skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, such as backing up, turning, and parking.
3. On-road driving skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on public roads. This includes merging onto highways, changing lanes, navigating intersections, and making turns.
4. Emergency maneuvers: You may be asked to demonstrate your ability to respond to emergency situations by performing maneuvers such as sudden stops or evasive steering.
It is important to note that the specific skills and maneuvers you will be tested on may vary depending on the type of CDL Bus license you are applying for and any endorsements you are seeking (such as a Passenger or School Bus endorsement). Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and practice with a qualified instructor before taking the CDL Bus driving test.
The following are some examples of the skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the CDL Bus driving test:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle and its components by conducting a pre-trip inspection. This involves checking the brakes, lights, tires, steering, and other systems.
2. Basic control skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a variety of situations, such as backing up, turning, and parking.
3. On-road driving skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on public roads. This includes merging onto highways, changing lanes, navigating intersections, and making turns.
4. Emergency maneuvers: You may be asked to demonstrate your ability to respond to emergency situations by performing maneuvers such as sudden stops or evasive steering.
It is important to note that the specific skills and maneuvers you will be tested on may vary depending on the type of CDL Bus license you are applying for and any endorsements you are seeking (such as a Passenger or School Bus endorsement). Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and practice 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 Connecticut.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the same basic medical requirements as for any other CDL license. This includes passing a medical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner and obtaining a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC).
In addition, you must meet the following specific requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement:
1. Vision: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses) and a horizontal visual field of at least 70 degrees.
2. Hearing: You must be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of 5 feet or more with or without hearing aids.
3. Blood pressure: You must have a blood pressure reading of less than 160/100.
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes and use insulin to control your blood sugar, you must obtain an exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement.
5. Other medical conditions: If you have any other medical conditions that could affect your ability to safely operate a bus, you may be required to provide additional documentation or obtain an exemption from the FMCSA.
It is important to note that these requirements apply specifically to CDL Bus endorsements and may differ from the requirements for other types of CDL licenses or endorsements. Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with a certified medical examiner if you have any questions about your eligibility for a CDL Bus endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the same basic medical requirements as for any other CDL license. This includes passing a medical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner and obtaining a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC).
In addition, you must meet the following specific requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement:
1. Vision: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses) and a horizontal visual field of at least 70 degrees.
2. Hearing: You must be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of 5 feet or more with or without hearing aids.
3. Blood pressure: You must have a blood pressure reading of less than 160/100.
4. Diabetes: If you have diabetes and use insulin to control your blood sugar, you must obtain an exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement.
5. Other medical conditions: If you have any other medical conditions that could affect your ability to safely operate a bus, you may be required to provide additional documentation or obtain an exemption from the FMCSA.
It is important to note that these requirements apply specifically to CDL Bus endorsements and may differ from the requirements for other types of CDL licenses or endorsements. Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with a certified medical examiner if you have any questions about your eligibility for a CDL Bus endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut. A CDL Bus endorsement is required for any driver who operates a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or any vehicle that requires a hazardous materials placard.
In addition to the CDL Bus endorsement, you may also need to obtain a Passenger endorsement if you plan to transport passengers for hire (such as in a commercial bus or shuttle service). The Passenger endorsement requires additional testing and training beyond the basic CDL requirements.
It is important to note that driving a bus without the proper endorsements can result in fines, license suspension, and other penalties. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving without the proper endorsements, your insurance may not cover any damages or injuries.
Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles if you have any questions about the requirements for operating a bus in Connecticut.
In addition to the CDL Bus endorsement, you may also need to obtain a Passenger endorsement if you plan to transport passengers for hire (such as in a commercial bus or shuttle service). The Passenger endorsement requires additional testing and training beyond the basic CDL requirements.
It is important to note that driving a bus without the proper endorsements can result in fines, license suspension, and other penalties. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving without the proper endorsements, your insurance may not cover any damages or injuries.
Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles if you have any questions about the requirements for operating a bus in Connecticut.
Yes, you can add a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Connecticut. To add the endorsement, you will need to complete the following steps:
1. Study for and pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. You can find study materials and practice tests in the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual.
2. Schedule and pass a skills test in a vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) with a qualified examiner. The skills test will include a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
3. Submit the appropriate fees and documentation to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to have the CDL Bus endorsement added to your existing license.
It is important to note that if you are adding a Passenger endorsement at the same time, you will need to complete additional testing and training beyond the basic CDL requirements.
If your CDL license is currently expired or has been surrendered for more than 2 years, you may need to apply for a new CDL license instead of adding endorsements. Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with the Connecticut DMV if you have any questions about adding endorsements to your existing CDL license.
1. Study for and pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. You can find study materials and practice tests in the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual.
2. Schedule and pass a skills test in a vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) with a qualified examiner. The skills test will include a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
3. Submit the appropriate fees and documentation to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to have the CDL Bus endorsement added to your existing license.
It is important to note that if you are adding a Passenger endorsement at the same time, you will need to complete additional testing and training beyond the basic CDL requirements.
If your CDL license is currently expired or has been surrendered for more than 2 years, you may need to apply for a new CDL license instead of adding endorsements. Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with the Connecticut DMV if you have any questions about adding endorsements to your existing CDL license.
Yes, there are some restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut. Some of the most common restrictions and limitations include:
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to the number of passengers they can transport based on the seating capacity of the vehicle. In general, the maximum number of passengers allowed is 16 (including the driver) without additional endorsements.
2. Endorsement requirements: Depending on the type of bus you are driving and the cargo you are transporting, you may need to obtain additional endorsements beyond the basic CDL and Bus endorsements. For example, if you are transporting hazardous materials, you will need a HazMat endorsement.
3. Medical certifications: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are required to pass regular medical exams and maintain a valid medical certificate in order to operate commercial vehicles.
4. Driving hours limitations: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations that limit the number of hours they can drive in a day and week.
It is important to understand and comply with all restrictions and limitations associated with your CDL Bus endorsement to avoid fines, license suspension, and other penalties. Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles if you have any questions about the requirements for operating a bus in Connecticut.
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to the number of passengers they can transport based on the seating capacity of the vehicle. In general, the maximum number of passengers allowed is 16 (including the driver) without additional endorsements.
2. Endorsement requirements: Depending on the type of bus you are driving and the cargo you are transporting, you may need to obtain additional endorsements beyond the basic CDL and Bus endorsements. For example, if you are transporting hazardous materials, you will need a HazMat endorsement.
3. Medical certifications: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are required to pass regular medical exams and maintain a valid medical certificate in order to operate commercial vehicles.
4. Driving hours limitations: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations that limit the number of hours they can drive in a day and week.
It is important to understand and comply with all restrictions and limitations associated with your CDL Bus endorsement to avoid fines, license suspension, and other penalties. Be sure to review the Connecticut Commercial Driver's Manual and consult with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles if you have any questions about the requirements for operating a bus in Connecticut.
