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 four possible answer choices. Test questions come from the 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
15. During a vehicle inspection, be sure that:
Explanation
During the vehicle inspection test, you must ensure that any emergency exit warning devices are working. All emergency exits should operate smoothly, be undamaged, and close securely from the inside.
16. When checking the power steering fluid during a vehicle inspection, you will need to do each of the following, except:
Explanation
When checking the power steering fluid during the vehicle inspection test, you must be able to indicate where the power steering fluid dipstick is located and show that there is an adequate amount of power steering fluid in the engine compartment. The fluid level must be above the refill mark.
17. Outside mirrors on a school bus should be adjusted:
Explanation
All mirrors on a school bus should be checked and adjusted before beginning a trip. Proper mirror adjustment is vital to the safety of all students and surrounding vehicles.
18. During the skills test, if making a turn that requires a stop, you should:
Explanation
If you must come to a stop before making a turn during the driving skills test, you should come to a smooth stop behind any stop line, crosswalk, or stop sign. Keep your front wheels aimed straight ahead and do not let your vehicle roll. If stopping behind another vehicle, stop where you are still able to see the rear tires of the vehicle ahead of you.
19. When asked about the vehicle's oil during the vehicle inspection test, you must be able to do all of the following, except:
Explanation
During the vehicle inspection test, you must be able to indicate where the oil dipstick is located; show that the oil level is within a safe operating range; and show that the oil level is above the refill mark.
20. Loading and unloading a school bus:
Explanation
More students are killed each year during loading or unloading of school buses than while riding on school buses. Therefore, it is critical that school bus drivers follow appropriate safety procedures during loading and unloading. The process must be properly supervised and done with care.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Massachusetts, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Hold a valid Massachusetts CDL: To be eligible for the bus endorsement, you must already have a valid Massachusetts CDL.
2. Meet the requirements: You must be at least 21 years old, have a clean driving record, and pass a medical examination.
3. Pass the CDL Bus Knowledge Test: You will need to pass a written test on driving a bus, including topics such as passenger safety, emergency procedures, and handling a bus in various road and weather conditions. You can study for this test by reviewing the Massachusetts CDL Manual.
4. Pass the CDL Bus Road Skills Test: This test will assess your ability to operate a bus safely on the road. You will need to demonstrate your skills in various driving scenarios, including turns, stops, merging, and backing up.
5. Apply for the endorsement: Once you have passed both tests, you can apply for the bus endorsement at your local RMV branch office. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency and citizenship (if applicable), and pay the appropriate fees.
6. Maintain your CDL and endorsement: To keep your CDL Bus endorsement valid, you must maintain your Massachusetts CDL by keeping it up-to-date with regular renewals and meet any other requirements set by the state.
1. Hold a valid Massachusetts CDL: To be eligible for the bus endorsement, you must already have a valid Massachusetts CDL.
2. Meet the requirements: You must be at least 21 years old, have a clean driving record, and pass a medical examination.
3. Pass the CDL Bus Knowledge Test: You will need to pass a written test on driving a bus, including topics such as passenger safety, emergency procedures, and handling a bus in various road and weather conditions. You can study for this test by reviewing the Massachusetts CDL Manual.
4. Pass the CDL Bus Road Skills Test: This test will assess your ability to operate a bus safely on the road. You will need to demonstrate your skills in various driving scenarios, including turns, stops, merging, and backing up.
5. Apply for the endorsement: Once you have passed both tests, you can apply for the bus endorsement at your local RMV branch office. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency and citizenship (if applicable), and pay the appropriate fees.
6. Maintain your CDL and endorsement: To keep your CDL Bus endorsement valid, you must maintain your Massachusetts CDL by keeping it up-to-date with regular renewals and meet any other requirements set by the state.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Massachusetts, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 21 years old: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a CDL Bus license in Massachusetts.
2. Hold a valid driver's license: You must already have a valid driver's license to apply for a CDL Bus license.
3. Pass the CDL general knowledge test: This test covers general truck and bus driving knowledge, such as driving laws and regulations, vehicle inspection, and basic control skills.
4. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement test: This test specifically covers bus driving knowledge, such as passenger safety, emergency procedures, and handling a bus in various road and weather conditions.
5. Pass a driving skills test: You must demonstrate your ability to operate a bus safely on the road during a practical driving skills test.
6. Meet medical requirements: You must pass a medical examination to ensure that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
7. Meet other state-specific requirements: Massachusetts has additional requirements, such as passing a criminal background check and obtaining certain endorsements, depending on the type of bus you will be driving.
Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for your CDL Bus license at your local RMV branch office.
1. Be at least 21 years old: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a CDL Bus license in Massachusetts.
2. Hold a valid driver's license: You must already have a valid driver's license to apply for a CDL Bus license.
3. Pass the CDL general knowledge test: This test covers general truck and bus driving knowledge, such as driving laws and regulations, vehicle inspection, and basic control skills.
4. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement test: This test specifically covers bus driving knowledge, such as passenger safety, emergency procedures, and handling a bus in various road and weather conditions.
5. Pass a driving skills test: You must demonstrate your ability to operate a bus safely on the road during a practical driving skills test.
6. Meet medical requirements: You must pass a medical examination to ensure that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
7. Meet other state-specific requirements: Massachusetts has additional requirements, such as passing a criminal background check and obtaining certain endorsements, depending on the type of bus you will be driving.
Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for your CDL Bus license at your local RMV branch office.
Yes, you may need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Massachusetts.
1. Complete a commercial driver training program: Massachusetts requires new commercial drivers to complete a state-approved commercial driver training program. This program includes classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and observation time. This training is mandatory for those applying for a CDL for the first time.
2. Gain experience: While there is no specific requirement for bus driving experience, it is highly recommended that you have some experience before taking the CDL Bus endorsement test. This can be gained through employment with a bus company or through volunteer work.
3. Pass a medical examination: You will need to pass a medical examination to ensure that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement test: You will need to pass both the general knowledge test and the CDL Bus endorsement test to obtain your CDL with a Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as obtaining passenger and air brake endorsements. Therefore, it is important to check with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) for specific requirements before pursuing your CDL Bus endorsement.
1. Complete a commercial driver training program: Massachusetts requires new commercial drivers to complete a state-approved commercial driver training program. This program includes classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and observation time. This training is mandatory for those applying for a CDL for the first time.
2. Gain experience: While there is no specific requirement for bus driving experience, it is highly recommended that you have some experience before taking the CDL Bus endorsement test. This can be gained through employment with a bus company or through volunteer work.
3. Pass a medical examination: You will need to pass a medical examination to ensure that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Pass the CDL Bus endorsement test: You will need to pass both the general knowledge test and the CDL Bus endorsement test to obtain your CDL with a Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you will be driving, such as obtaining passenger and air brake endorsements. Therefore, it is important to check with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) for specific requirements before pursuing your CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Massachusetts. The classes are based on the weight of the vehicle and the number of passengers it can carry.
1. Class B CDL Bus license: This allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more and/or a vehicle towing another vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds. You can also operate a bus designed to transport more than 15 passengers.
2. Class C CDL Bus license: This allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of Class A or Class B, but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers including you as the driver.
Additionally, there are different endorsements that can be added to a CDL Bus license in Massachusetts. These endorsements allow you to operate certain types of vehicles or carry certain types of cargo:
1. Passenger endorsement (P): This endorsement allows you to transport passengers in a bus. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and a skills test.
2. School bus endorsement (S): This endorsement allows you to operate a school bus. You must pass a written test, skills test, and meet other state-specific requirements.
3. Air brake endorsement (A): This endorsement allows you to drive vehicles equipped with air brakes. You must pass a written test and demonstrate your ability to operate air brakes during the skills test.
It is important to note that each endorsement requires additional testing and may have specific requirements depending on the type of vehicle you will be driving.
1. Class B CDL Bus license: This allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more and/or a vehicle towing another vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds. You can also operate a bus designed to transport more than 15 passengers.
2. Class C CDL Bus license: This allows you to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of Class A or Class B, but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers including you as the driver.
Additionally, there are different endorsements that can be added to a CDL Bus license in Massachusetts. These endorsements allow you to operate certain types of vehicles or carry certain types of cargo:
1. Passenger endorsement (P): This endorsement allows you to transport passengers in a bus. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and a skills test.
2. School bus endorsement (S): This endorsement allows you to operate a school bus. You must pass a written test, skills test, and meet other state-specific requirements.
3. Air brake endorsement (A): This endorsement allows you to drive vehicles equipped with air brakes. You must pass a written test and demonstrate your ability to operate air brakes during the skills test.
It is important to note that each endorsement requires additional testing and may have specific requirements depending on the type of vehicle you will be driving.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires you to use a vehicle that meets certain specifications for the driving test. The vehicle must be representative of the type of bus you will be driving and meet certain safety requirements, such as having functioning brakes, turn signals, and emergency exits.
The RMV provides test vehicles for the CDL Bus driving test, so you do not need to provide your own vehicle. You will be tested on your ability to operate the test vehicle safely and comply with traffic laws and regulations.
It is important to note that you will need to bring a valid driver's license, your learner's permit or commercial driver's license permit, and any applicable endorsements with you to the test. Additionally, you will need to pass a pre-trip inspection and demonstrate your ability to perform basic maneuvers before taking the driving test.
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires you to use a vehicle that meets certain specifications for the driving test. The vehicle must be representative of the type of bus you will be driving and meet certain safety requirements, such as having functioning brakes, turn signals, and emergency exits.
The RMV provides test vehicles for the CDL Bus driving test, so you do not need to provide your own vehicle. You will be tested on your ability to operate the test vehicle safely and comply with traffic laws and regulations.
It is important to note that you will need to bring a valid driver's license, your learner's permit or commercial driver's license permit, and any applicable endorsements with you to the test. Additionally, you will need to pass a pre-trip inspection and demonstrate your ability to perform basic maneuvers before taking the driving test.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in Massachusetts, you will need to demonstrate your ability to perform specific skills and maneuvers. The test consists of three parts: a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control skills test, and an on-road driving test.
During the basic vehicle control skills test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to perform the following maneuvers:
1. Straight line backing: You will be required to back the vehicle in a straight line for a distance of about 100 feet.
2. Offset backing: You will need to back the vehicle into a space that is offset from your starting position.
3. Parallel parking: You will be required to parallel park the vehicle between two cones or other markers.
4. Alley dock: You will need to back the vehicle into an alley dock, which is a simulated loading dock with limited space.
During the on-road driving test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to operate the bus safely and comply with traffic laws and regulations. The test will include city driving, rural driving, and highway driving. You may also be asked to perform emergency maneuvers such as stopping quickly or swerving to avoid an obstacle.
It is important to note that you must pass all three parts of the CDL Bus driving test in order to obtain your commercial driver's license with a bus endorsement. Additionally, you must meet all other state-specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus license in Massachusetts.
During the basic vehicle control skills test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to perform the following maneuvers:
1. Straight line backing: You will be required to back the vehicle in a straight line for a distance of about 100 feet.
2. Offset backing: You will need to back the vehicle into a space that is offset from your starting position.
3. Parallel parking: You will be required to parallel park the vehicle between two cones or other markers.
4. Alley dock: You will need to back the vehicle into an alley dock, which is a simulated loading dock with limited space.
During the on-road driving test, you will need to demonstrate your ability to operate the bus safely and comply with traffic laws and regulations. The test will include city driving, rural driving, and highway driving. You may also be asked to perform emergency maneuvers such as stopping quickly or swerving to avoid an obstacle.
It is important to note that you must pass all three parts of the CDL Bus driving test in order to obtain your commercial driver's license with a bus endorsement. Additionally, you must meet all other state-specific requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus license in Massachusetts.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in Massachusetts. These requirements are in place to ensure that commercial drivers are physically capable of operating a large commercial vehicle safely.
Firstly, you must have a valid medical certificate that meets the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This certificate must be obtained from a qualified medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
Secondly, you must meet certain vision and hearing requirements. Your vision must be at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses, and your field of vision must be at least 70 degrees in each eye. You must also be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of five feet or more, or pass a hearing test.
Thirdly, you must not have any physical impairments that would interfere with your ability to safely operate a bus. This includes conditions such as epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes, and certain heart conditions.
Lastly, you may also be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing as part of the CDL Bus endorsement process. This may include pre-employment testing, random testing, post-accident testing, and reasonable suspicion testing.
It is important to note that these medical and physical requirements may vary by state and can change over time. It is recommended to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency for the most up-to-date information on CDL Bus endorsement requirements.
Firstly, you must have a valid medical certificate that meets the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This certificate must be obtained from a qualified medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
Secondly, you must meet certain vision and hearing requirements. Your vision must be at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses, and your field of vision must be at least 70 degrees in each eye. You must also be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of five feet or more, or pass a hearing test.
Thirdly, you must not have any physical impairments that would interfere with your ability to safely operate a bus. This includes conditions such as epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes, and certain heart conditions.
Lastly, you may also be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing as part of the CDL Bus endorsement process. This may include pre-employment testing, random testing, post-accident testing, and reasonable suspicion testing.
It is important to note that these medical and physical requirements may vary by state and can change over time. It is recommended to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency for the most up-to-date information on CDL Bus endorsement requirements.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement. In Massachusetts and most other states, a commercial driver's license with a passenger (P) endorsement is required to operate a bus or other vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Massachusetts, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a series of knowledge and skills tests. You must also have a valid medical certificate and meet certain vision, hearing, and physical requirements, as I mentioned earlier.
If you are caught operating a bus without the proper CDL Bus endorsement, you may be subject to fines, penalties, and other legal consequences. Additionally, your employer may also face penalties for allowing you to operate the vehicle without the proper endorsement.
It is important to ensure that you have the proper endorsements and qualifications before operating any commercial vehicle.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Massachusetts, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a series of knowledge and skills tests. You must also have a valid medical certificate and meet certain vision, hearing, and physical requirements, as I mentioned earlier.
If you are caught operating a bus without the proper CDL Bus endorsement, you may be subject to fines, penalties, and other legal consequences. Additionally, your employer may also face penalties for allowing you to operate the vehicle without the proper endorsement.
It is important to ensure that you have the proper endorsements and qualifications before operating any commercial vehicle.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license. In Massachusetts, you can add endorsements to your CDL license by passing the required knowledge and skills tests for the specific endorsement you are seeking.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements and pass the appropriate knowledge and skills tests. You will also need to provide a valid medical certificate that meets the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and meet certain vision, hearing, and physical requirements.
You can schedule an appointment at a Massachusetts RMV Service Center to take the required tests and add the endorsement to your CDL license. There may be additional fees associated with adding endorsements to your license.
It is important to note that adding endorsements to your CDL license may require additional training or experience, depending on the specific endorsement. You may also be subject to drug and alcohol testing as part of the endorsement process.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements and pass the appropriate knowledge and skills tests. You will also need to provide a valid medical certificate that meets the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and meet certain vision, hearing, and physical requirements.
You can schedule an appointment at a Massachusetts RMV Service Center to take the required tests and add the endorsement to your CDL license. There may be additional fees associated with adding endorsements to your license.
It is important to note that adding endorsements to your CDL license may require additional training or experience, depending on the specific endorsement. You may also be subject to drug and alcohol testing as part of the endorsement process.
Yes, there are certain restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement. These include:
1. Passenger limit: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to transporting 16 or more passengers, including the driver. If you want to transport fewer than 16 passengers, you may still need a CDL with a passenger endorsement, but it may be the "P" endorsement instead of the "S" (school bus) or "P1" (passenger) endorsement.
2. Endorsement expiration: The CDL Bus endorsement is valid for up to 4 years and must be renewed along with your regular CDL license.
3. Medical certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must maintain a valid medical certificate that meets the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and meet certain vision, hearing, and physical requirements.
4. Drug and alcohol testing: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to drug and alcohol testing as part of their employment or if they are involved in an accident.
5. Special training: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may be required to undergo additional training or certification depending on the type of bus they operate. For example, drivers of school buses must undergo specialized training and certification in addition to their CDL Bus endorsement.
It is important to be aware of these restrictions and limitations as failure to comply with them could result in fines, penalties, or even revocation of your CDL license.
1. Passenger limit: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are limited to transporting 16 or more passengers, including the driver. If you want to transport fewer than 16 passengers, you may still need a CDL with a passenger endorsement, but it may be the "P" endorsement instead of the "S" (school bus) or "P1" (passenger) endorsement.
2. Endorsement expiration: The CDL Bus endorsement is valid for up to 4 years and must be renewed along with your regular CDL license.
3. Medical certification: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must maintain a valid medical certificate that meets the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and meet certain vision, hearing, and physical requirements.
4. Drug and alcohol testing: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to drug and alcohol testing as part of their employment or if they are involved in an accident.
5. Special training: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may be required to undergo additional training or certification depending on the type of bus they operate. For example, drivers of school buses must undergo specialized training and certification in addition to their CDL Bus endorsement.
It is important to be aware of these restrictions and limitations as failure to comply with them could result in fines, penalties, or even revocation of your CDL license.
