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 Louisiana Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering Transporting PAssengers, Air Brakes, School Buses, Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Test, Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test and On-Road Driving. The School Bus endorsement can be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.
Number of Question
Passing Score
8. 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.
9. Air tank drains should:
Explanation
Compressed air in an air brake system usually contains a certain amount of water and compressor oil. The water and oil can damage the brakes if left to accumulate in the system. Manually operated air tank drains must be opened daily to remove this build-up.
10. What is brake lag?
Explanation
Because air takes time to flow through the air lines to the brakes, air brakes cannot begin working instantly. There is often a brake lag of at least one-half of a second between the moment the brake pedal is pressed and the moment the brakes begin to work.
11. When operating a school bus, mirrors should be adjusted:
Explanation
It is critical to the safe operation of a school bus that mirrors be properly adjusted. Always check each mirror before operating the bus.
12. The parking brake in a newer vehicle is applied by:
Explanation
In newer vehicles with air brakes, the parking brake is controlled by a yellow, diamond-shaped knob. The driver should pull the knob outward to apply the parking brakes and push the knob inward to release them.
13. 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.
14. If an air compressor is belt-driven, the belt should be routinely checked to ensure that it is:
Explanation
If your vehicle has air brakes, the air compressor drive belt should be checked before each drive. Check the tightness of the belt and verify that it is in good condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL bus endorsement in Louisiana, you need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Louisiana commercial driver's license (CDL) permit: You must first pass the CDL general knowledge test and any additional knowledge tests required for the type of vehicle you plan to operate. You can schedule an appointment to take the test with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV).
2. Pass a pre-trip inspection test: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of your bus to make sure it is operating safely and efficiently.
3. Pass a skills test: You will need to pass a skills test that includes a vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
4. Complete a Louisiana CDL application: You will need to complete an application and pay the appropriate fees.
5. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check that includes fingerprinting and a criminal history check.
6. Obtain your CDL bus endorsement: Once you have completed all the requirements, you will be issued your CDL bus endorsement.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school buses. You should check with the Louisiana OMV for specific requirements related to your situation.
1. Obtain a Louisiana commercial driver's license (CDL) permit: You must first pass the CDL general knowledge test and any additional knowledge tests required for the type of vehicle you plan to operate. You can schedule an appointment to take the test with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV).
2. Pass a pre-trip inspection test: You will be required to perform a pre-trip inspection of your bus to make sure it is operating safely and efficiently.
3. Pass a skills test: You will need to pass a skills test that includes a vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
4. Complete a Louisiana CDL application: You will need to complete an application and pay the appropriate fees.
5. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check that includes fingerprinting and a criminal history check.
6. Obtain your CDL bus endorsement: Once you have completed all the requirements, you will be issued your CDL bus endorsement.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school buses. You should check with the Louisiana OMV for specific requirements related to your situation.
To obtain a CDL bus license in Louisiana, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old: You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within the state of Louisiana, but you will not be able to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines until you are 21 years old.
2. Hold a valid Louisiana driver's license: You must hold a valid Louisiana driver's license before you can obtain a CDL.
3. Pass a medical exam: You will need to pass a medical exam and obtain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate that shows that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Obtain a CDL permit: You must pass the CDL general knowledge test and any additional knowledge tests required for the type of vehicle you plan to operate. This will allow you to practice driving with a qualified CDL holder in the vehicle with you.
5. Complete CDL training: You must complete a CDL training program that meets Louisiana's requirements, or you can obtain the necessary training through your employer.
6. Pass a skills test: You will need to pass a skills test that includes a vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check that includes fingerprinting and a criminal history check.
Once you have met all of these requirements, you will be issued your CDL bus license. It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school buses. You should check with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements related to your situation.
1. Be at least 18 years old: You must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within the state of Louisiana, but you will not be able to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines until you are 21 years old.
2. Hold a valid Louisiana driver's license: You must hold a valid Louisiana driver's license before you can obtain a CDL.
3. Pass a medical exam: You will need to pass a medical exam and obtain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate that shows that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Obtain a CDL permit: You must pass the CDL general knowledge test and any additional knowledge tests required for the type of vehicle you plan to operate. This will allow you to practice driving with a qualified CDL holder in the vehicle with you.
5. Complete CDL training: You must complete a CDL training program that meets Louisiana's requirements, or you can obtain the necessary training through your employer.
6. Pass a skills test: You will need to pass a skills test that includes a vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
7. Pass a background check: You will need to pass a background check that includes fingerprinting and a criminal history check.
Once you have met all of these requirements, you will be issued your CDL bus license. It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school buses. You should check with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements related to your situation.
Yes, you will need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL bus endorsement in Louisiana.
To obtain a CDL bus endorsement, you must first obtain a Louisiana CDL and then pass a skills test that includes a vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test. However, before you can take the skills test, you must complete CDL training that meets Louisiana's requirements or obtain the necessary training through your employer.
In addition to completing CDL training, you will also need to pass a medical exam and obtain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate that shows that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school buses. You should check with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements related to your situation.
To obtain a CDL bus endorsement, you must first obtain a Louisiana CDL and then pass a skills test that includes a vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test. However, before you can take the skills test, you must complete CDL training that meets Louisiana's requirements or obtain the necessary training through your employer.
In addition to completing CDL training, you will also need to pass a medical exam and obtain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate that shows that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school buses. You should check with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements related to your situation.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL bus licenses in Louisiana. The type of CDL license you need depends on the weight of the vehicle you will be driving and the type of cargo or passengers you will be transporting.
Here are the three classes of CDL licenses in Louisiana and which vehicles they allow you to operate:
1. Class A: This license allows you to drive any combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the vehicle being towed weighs over 10,000 pounds. This includes tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and flatbed trucks.
2. Class B: This license allows you to drive any single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, as well as any vehicle towing a trailer with a weight of less than 10,000 pounds. This includes buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
3. Class C: This license allows you to drive any single vehicle with a weight less than 26,001 pounds that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or transport hazardous materials.
In addition to these classes, there are also endorsements that you can obtain that allow you to operate specific types of vehicles or carry certain types of cargo. For example, if you plan to operate a bus with air brakes, you will need to obtain an air brake endorsement. If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement.
Here are the three classes of CDL licenses in Louisiana and which vehicles they allow you to operate:
1. Class A: This license allows you to drive any combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the vehicle being towed weighs over 10,000 pounds. This includes tractor-trailers, tanker trucks, and flatbed trucks.
2. Class B: This license allows you to drive any single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, as well as any vehicle towing a trailer with a weight of less than 10,000 pounds. This includes buses designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
3. Class C: This license allows you to drive any single vehicle with a weight less than 26,001 pounds that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or transport hazardous materials.
In addition to these classes, there are also endorsements that you can obtain that allow you to operate specific types of vehicles or carry certain types of cargo. For example, if you plan to operate a bus with air brakes, you will need to obtain an air brake endorsement. If you plan to transport hazardous materials, you will need to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Louisiana. The driving test must be completed using a vehicle that meets Louisiana's requirements for the class of CDL you are testing for.
For the CDL Bus driving test, you will need to provide a bus that meets the following requirements:
1. The bus must be in safe operating condition and meet all Louisiana vehicle safety standards.
2. The bus must have a seating capacity of at least 16 passengers (including the driver).
3. The bus must have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of at least 26,001 pounds.
4. The bus must have a valid registration and insurance.
If you do not have access to a qualifying bus for the driving test, you may be able to rent one from a commercial driving school or truck rental company that meets Louisiana's requirements.
For the CDL Bus driving test, you will need to provide a bus that meets the following requirements:
1. The bus must be in safe operating condition and meet all Louisiana vehicle safety standards.
2. The bus must have a seating capacity of at least 16 passengers (including the driver).
3. The bus must have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of at least 26,001 pounds.
4. The bus must have a valid registration and insurance.
If you do not have access to a qualifying bus for the driving test, you may be able to rent one from a commercial driving school or truck rental company that meets Louisiana's requirements.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Louisiana. Here are some examples:
1. Pre-trip inspection: Before you begin the driving portion of the test, you will need to perform a pre-trip inspection of the bus. This includes checking the brakes, lights, tires, steering, and other components to ensure they are in safe working condition.
2. Straight line backing: You will be asked to back the bus in a straight line for a distance of 50 feet between two markers. This tests your ability to control the bus and maneuver it in tight spaces.
3. Off-set backing: You will need to back the bus into a space that is offset to the left or right by 45 degrees. This tests your ability to judge distance and maneuver the bus accurately.
4. Parallel parking: You will need to park the bus parallel to a curb without hitting any obstacles or going over the curb. This tests your ability to control the bus and park it accurately.
5. Normal driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to drive the bus safely on public roads, obeying traffic laws and signals.
6. Emergency stop: You may be asked to perform an emergency stop by stopping the bus quickly without locking up the brakes or losing control.
7. Railroad crossing: You will need to safely cross a railroad track, checking for oncoming trains and ensuring that all passengers are safe.
These are just some examples of skills and maneuvers you may be asked to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Louisiana. It's important to practice and prepare thoroughly before taking the test, as failure to pass any part of it will result in having to retake it at a later time.
1. Pre-trip inspection: Before you begin the driving portion of the test, you will need to perform a pre-trip inspection of the bus. This includes checking the brakes, lights, tires, steering, and other components to ensure they are in safe working condition.
2. Straight line backing: You will be asked to back the bus in a straight line for a distance of 50 feet between two markers. This tests your ability to control the bus and maneuver it in tight spaces.
3. Off-set backing: You will need to back the bus into a space that is offset to the left or right by 45 degrees. This tests your ability to judge distance and maneuver the bus accurately.
4. Parallel parking: You will need to park the bus parallel to a curb without hitting any obstacles or going over the curb. This tests your ability to control the bus and park it accurately.
5. Normal driving: You will need to demonstrate your ability to drive the bus safely on public roads, obeying traffic laws and signals.
6. Emergency stop: You may be asked to perform an emergency stop by stopping the bus quickly without locking up the brakes or losing control.
7. Railroad crossing: You will need to safely cross a railroad track, checking for oncoming trains and ensuring that all passengers are safe.
These are just some examples of skills and maneuvers you may be asked to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Louisiana. It's important to practice and prepare thoroughly before taking the test, as failure to pass any part of it will result in having to retake it at a later time.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Louisiana.
You will need to meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical qualifications, which include passing a medical examination performed by a licensed medical examiner. The medical examiner will evaluate your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical health to ensure that you are fit to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
Additionally, you must meet the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DPS&C) physical qualifications. This includes having good hearing and vision (with or without corrective lenses), being able to distinguish colors on traffic signals, being able to speak English well enough to communicate with other drivers and law enforcement officers, and not having any physical impairments that would affect your ability to drive safely.
If you have any medical conditions or disabilities that may affect your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely, you may need to obtain a waiver from the FMCSA or DPS&C.
It's important to note that even if you pass the medical examination and physical qualifications at the time of your CDL Bus endorsement application, you will be required to undergo periodic medical examinations in order to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement.
You will need to meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical qualifications, which include passing a medical examination performed by a licensed medical examiner. The medical examiner will evaluate your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical health to ensure that you are fit to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
Additionally, you must meet the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DPS&C) physical qualifications. This includes having good hearing and vision (with or without corrective lenses), being able to distinguish colors on traffic signals, being able to speak English well enough to communicate with other drivers and law enforcement officers, and not having any physical impairments that would affect your ability to drive safely.
If you have any medical conditions or disabilities that may affect your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely, you may need to obtain a waiver from the FMCSA or DPS&C.
It's important to note that even if you pass the medical examination and physical qualifications at the time of your CDL Bus endorsement application, you will be required to undergo periodic medical examinations in order to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in Louisiana. A CDL Bus endorsement is required for anyone who operates a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
Driving a commercial motor vehicle without the proper endorsement is illegal and can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving a commercial motor vehicle without the proper endorsement, your insurance may not cover the damages, leaving you personally liable for any injuries or property damage.
It's important to obtain the proper endorsements and licenses before operating a commercial motor vehicle to ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers, as well as to avoid legal consequences.
Driving a commercial motor vehicle without the proper endorsement is illegal and can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving a commercial motor vehicle without the proper endorsement, your insurance may not cover the damages, leaving you personally liable for any injuries or property damage.
It's important to obtain the proper endorsements and licenses before operating a commercial motor vehicle to ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers, as well as to avoid legal consequences.
You can add a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Louisiana by passing the necessary knowledge and skills tests and paying the required fees.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license, you will need to pass the Passenger Transport (P) knowledge test and the Passenger Transport (P) skills test. You may also need to undergo a background check, depending on your employer's requirements.
Once you have passed the necessary tests and met all other requirements, you can apply for the CDL Bus endorsement at a Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) location. You will need to bring your current CDL license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment for the endorsement fee.
It's important to note that if you have any disqualifying offenses on your driving record or criminal history, you may not be eligible for the CDL Bus endorsement. It's best to check with the Louisiana OMV or a qualified CDL training school to determine your eligibility before attempting to add the endorsement to your license.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license, you will need to pass the Passenger Transport (P) knowledge test and the Passenger Transport (P) skills test. You may also need to undergo a background check, depending on your employer's requirements.
Once you have passed the necessary tests and met all other requirements, you can apply for the CDL Bus endorsement at a Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) location. You will need to bring your current CDL license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment for the endorsement fee.
It's important to note that if you have any disqualifying offenses on your driving record or criminal history, you may not be eligible for the CDL Bus endorsement. It's best to check with the Louisiana OMV or a qualified CDL training school to determine your eligibility before attempting to add the endorsement to your license.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Louisiana. Some of the common restrictions and limitations include:
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are only allowed to transport the number of passengers that their vehicle is designed to carry. They are not allowed to exceed the passenger limit under any circumstances.
2. Hours of service: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must comply with federal and state hours of service regulations, which limit the amount of time they can drive and require them to take breaks and rest periods.
3. Medical certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must pass a regular medical examination to ensure they are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Alcohol and drug testing: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to regular alcohol and drug testing, both before employment and during employment.
5. Speed limits: Commercial vehicles are subject to lower speed limits than other vehicles on certain roads, such as highways and interstates.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations, as violating them can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges.
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are only allowed to transport the number of passengers that their vehicle is designed to carry. They are not allowed to exceed the passenger limit under any circumstances.
2. Hours of service: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must comply with federal and state hours of service regulations, which limit the amount of time they can drive and require them to take breaks and rest periods.
3. Medical certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must pass a regular medical examination to ensure they are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Alcohol and drug testing: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to regular alcohol and drug testing, both before employment and during employment.
5. Speed limits: Commercial vehicles are subject to lower speed limits than other vehicles on certain roads, such as highways and interstates.
It's important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to be aware of these restrictions and limitations, as violating them can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and even criminal charges.
