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 Montana 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
8. 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.
9. Failing to exit your vehicle properly during an exercise in the basic vehicle control skills test will result in:
Explanation
When exiting your vehicle during the basic vehicle control skills test, you must face the vehicle and maintain three points of contact at all times. If your testing vehicle is a bus, you must maintain contact with the handrail. Exiting the vehicle incorrectly may result in automatic failure of the basic control skills test.
10. During a vehicle inspection, ensure that the landing gear is:
Explanation
When inspecting a trailer during a vehicle inspection test, ensure that its landing gear has no missing parts and that it is fully raised. The crank handle should be secure and the support frame should not be damaged.
11. If a driver cannot account for a student after the student has exited the bus, the driver should:
Explanation
During unloading, if a school bus driver cannot account for a student outside of the bus, they should secure the bus and check for the missing student around and underneath the bus.
12. A passive railroad crossing:
Explanation
Railroad crossings that do not display any traffic control devices are known as passive crossings. The decision to proceed across tracks at a passive crossing is entirely up to the driver.
13. Which of the following is not a backing maneuver that you will be asked to perform during the basic control skills test?
Explanation
Backing maneuvers that may be included in the basic vehicle control skills test include straight line backing, offset back/right, offset back/left, driver side parallel parking, conventional parallel parking, and alley docking.
14. During the driving test, the examiner will be scoring you on:
Explanation
During the on-road driving test, the examiner will be score you on specific driving maneuvers as well as on your general driving behavior. You must drive in a safe and responsible manner; obey all traffic signs, signals, and laws; and not cause an accident or commit a moving violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Montana, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Montana Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the required written and skills tests, and meeting the state's eligibility requirements.
2. Complete a Commercial Driver License Application (Form 21-4402) and check the box for "Passenger" endorsement.
3. Provide proof of your identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States.
4. Pass a written knowledge test for the Passenger endorsement. You can prepare for the test by studying the Montana CDL Driver Manual.
5. Pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test in a vehicle that requires a Passenger endorsement.
6. Pay the required fees for your CDL and Passenger endorsement.
Once you have completed these steps, you will be issued a Montana CDL with a Passenger endorsement, allowing you to operate commercial vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
1. Obtain a Montana Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the required written and skills tests, and meeting the state's eligibility requirements.
2. Complete a Commercial Driver License Application (Form 21-4402) and check the box for "Passenger" endorsement.
3. Provide proof of your identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States.
4. Pass a written knowledge test for the Passenger endorsement. You can prepare for the test by studying the Montana CDL Driver Manual.
5. Pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test in a vehicle that requires a Passenger endorsement.
6. Pay the required fees for your CDL and Passenger endorsement.
Once you have completed these steps, you will be issued a Montana CDL with a Passenger endorsement, allowing you to operate commercial vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Montana, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state of Montana, and at least 21 years old to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Residency: You must be a resident of Montana or have proof of legal presence in the United States.
3. Medical Certification: You must pass a medical examination and submit a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.
4. Knowledge Test: You must pass a written knowledge test specific to the type of CDL license and endorsements you are seeking. The test covers general knowledge, air brakes, and any additional endorsements you require (such as Passenger).
5. Skills Test: You must pass a three-part skills test that includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check and disclose any previous driving violations or convictions.
7. Commercial Driver Training: Montana does not require commercial driver training, but completing a training program can be helpful in preparing for the skills test.
8. Fees: You will need to pay the required fees for your CDL license and any endorsements you are seeking.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive within the state of Montana, and at least 21 years old to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Residency: You must be a resident of Montana or have proof of legal presence in the United States.
3. Medical Certification: You must pass a medical examination and submit a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate.
4. Knowledge Test: You must pass a written knowledge test specific to the type of CDL license and endorsements you are seeking. The test covers general knowledge, air brakes, and any additional endorsements you require (such as Passenger).
5. Skills Test: You must pass a three-part skills test that includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check and disclose any previous driving violations or convictions.
7. Commercial Driver Training: Montana does not require commercial driver training, but completing a training program can be helpful in preparing for the skills test.
8. Fees: You will need to pay the required fees for your CDL license and any endorsements you are seeking.
Montana does not require specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. However, it is highly recommended that you receive training from an accredited truck driving school or program. This will help you prepare for the written and skills tests required to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, and also provide you with valuable experience and knowledge about driving a commercial vehicle safely and effectively.
Furthermore, some employers may require specific training or experience before hiring you, especially if you will be driving specialized vehicles such as school buses or motor coaches. Therefore, it is important to research the job market and requirements in your area before pursuing a CDL Bus endorsement.
Furthermore, some employers may require specific training or experience before hiring you, especially if you will be driving specialized vehicles such as school buses or motor coaches. Therefore, it is important to research the job market and requirements in your area before pursuing a CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses, also known as endorsements, in Montana. The three main classes of CDL Bus licenses are:
1. Class A: This license allows you to drive a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Class B: This license allows you to drive a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds.
3. Class C: This license is for drivers who will be transporting passengers and requires specific endorsements based on the type of vehicle and number of passengers being transported.
In addition to these classes, there are also several endorsements that you can add to your CDL Bus license in Montana. These include:
1. Passenger endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport passengers in vehicles such as buses and vans.
2. School bus endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive a school bus.
3. Hazardous materials endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials.
4. Tanker endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport liquid or gas in tank vehicles.
5. Double/triple trailer endorsement: This endorsement allows you to tow double or triple trailers.
1. Class A: This license allows you to drive a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the vehicle being towed weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
2. Class B: This license allows you to drive a single vehicle with a weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds.
3. Class C: This license is for drivers who will be transporting passengers and requires specific endorsements based on the type of vehicle and number of passengers being transported.
In addition to these classes, there are also several endorsements that you can add to your CDL Bus license in Montana. These include:
1. Passenger endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport passengers in vehicles such as buses and vans.
2. School bus endorsement: This endorsement allows you to drive a school bus.
3. Hazardous materials endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport hazardous materials.
4. Tanker endorsement: This endorsement allows you to transport liquid or gas in tank vehicles.
5. Double/triple trailer endorsement: This endorsement allows you to tow double or triple trailers.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Montana. The driving test for a CDL Bus license requires the use of a commercial vehicle that meets certain requirements, including size and weight specifications.
Montana law requires that you provide a vehicle that meets the requirements for the class of license you are applying for. In addition, the vehicle must be properly registered and insured. You may be able to rent a commercial vehicle from a truck driving school or other commercial driving training program to use for the driving test.
It is important to note that you must also have a valid Montana driver's license and a learner's permit with the appropriate CDL Bus endorsements before taking the driving test. Before scheduling your driving test, make sure that you have completed all necessary training and have obtained the appropriate endorsements and permits.
Montana law requires that you provide a vehicle that meets the requirements for the class of license you are applying for. In addition, the vehicle must be properly registered and insured. You may be able to rent a commercial vehicle from a truck driving school or other commercial driving training program to use for the driving test.
It is important to note that you must also have a valid Montana driver's license and a learner's permit with the appropriate CDL Bus endorsements before taking the driving test. Before scheduling your driving test, make sure that you have completed all necessary training and have obtained the appropriate endorsements and permits.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in Montana. The driving test typically consists of three parts: a pre-trip inspection, basic controls test, and a road test.
During the road test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Some of the skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the road test include:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle before beginning the road test.
2. Straight-line backing: You may be asked to back up your vehicle in a straight line for a certain distance.
3. Parallel parking: You may be asked to parallel park your vehicle in a designated area.
4. Shifting gears: You will need to demonstrate your ability to shift gears smoothly and correctly.
5. Turning: You may be asked to make left and right turns at intersections or other locations.
6. Lane changes: You will need to safely change lanes when necessary.
7. Merging onto highways: You will need to merge onto highways safely and correctly.
8. Braking: You will need to demonstrate your ability to brake smoothly and quickly when necessary.
It is important to practice these skills and maneuvers before taking the driving test, so you feel confident and prepared on test day.
During the road test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Some of the skills and maneuvers you may be asked to perform during the road test include:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be required to perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle before beginning the road test.
2. Straight-line backing: You may be asked to back up your vehicle in a straight line for a certain distance.
3. Parallel parking: You may be asked to parallel park your vehicle in a designated area.
4. Shifting gears: You will need to demonstrate your ability to shift gears smoothly and correctly.
5. Turning: You may be asked to make left and right turns at intersections or other locations.
6. Lane changes: You will need to safely change lanes when necessary.
7. Merging onto highways: You will need to merge onto highways safely and correctly.
8. Braking: You will need to demonstrate your ability to brake smoothly and quickly when necessary.
It is important to practice these skills and maneuvers before taking the driving test, so you feel confident and prepared on test day.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement in Montana. To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must meet the federal medical standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
You will need to pass a medical examination conducted by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical examination will assess your overall health and ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
The medical examination will evaluate your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other health conditions that may affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. If you have any health conditions that may impact your ability to drive safely, you may need to provide additional documentation from your doctor.
In addition to the medical examination, you will need to meet certain physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement. These requirements include having good hearing and vision, as well as being able to perform certain physical tasks such as climbing in and out of the vehicle, reaching overhead, and operating foot pedals.
It is important to note that if you have certain medical conditions or disabilities that may impact your ability to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, there may be accommodations and exemptions available. You should contact the Montana Department of Transportation for more information on these accommodations or exemptions.
You will need to pass a medical examination conducted by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The medical examination will assess your overall health and ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
The medical examination will evaluate your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other health conditions that may affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. If you have any health conditions that may impact your ability to drive safely, you may need to provide additional documentation from your doctor.
In addition to the medical examination, you will need to meet certain physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement. These requirements include having good hearing and vision, as well as being able to perform certain physical tasks such as climbing in and out of the vehicle, reaching overhead, and operating foot pedals.
It is important to note that if you have certain medical conditions or disabilities that may impact your ability to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, there may be accommodations and exemptions available. You should contact the Montana Department of Transportation for more information on these accommodations or exemptions.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers in a commercial vehicle without a CDL Bus endorsement if the vehicle meets certain criteria. In Montana, a commercial vehicle is considered to be a bus if it is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or if it meets certain weight criteria.
According to the Montana Department of Transportation, you must have a CDL Bus endorsement to operate a commercial vehicle that meets these criteria. This endorsement requires passing a written knowledge test and a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle controls, and on-road driving.
If you are caught operating a commercial vehicle without the required CDL Bus endorsement, you could face fines, license suspension or revocation, or other penalties. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while operating a commercial vehicle without the appropriate CDL endorsement, your insurance may not cover damages or injuries.
It is important to follow all licensing and endorsement requirements when operating a commercial vehicle in order to ensure both your safety and the safety of your passengers.
According to the Montana Department of Transportation, you must have a CDL Bus endorsement to operate a commercial vehicle that meets these criteria. This endorsement requires passing a written knowledge test and a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle controls, and on-road driving.
If you are caught operating a commercial vehicle without the required CDL Bus endorsement, you could face fines, license suspension or revocation, or other penalties. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while operating a commercial vehicle without the appropriate CDL endorsement, your insurance may not cover damages or injuries.
It is important to follow all licensing and endorsement requirements when operating a commercial vehicle in order to ensure both your safety and the safety of your passengers.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license by applying for an endorsement upgrade. In Montana, you can apply for an endorsement upgrade in person at a Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) driver license station.
To be eligible for an endorsement upgrade, you must hold a valid Montana CDL license and pass the required knowledge and skills tests for the specific endorsement you are seeking. The CDL Bus endorsement requires passing a written knowledge test and a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle controls, and on-road driving.
You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of legal presence, and proof of Montana residency when applying for an endorsement upgrade. Additionally, you will need to pay the required fees for the endorsement upgrade.
It is important to note that if your CDL license has been expired for more than one year, you will need to apply for a new CDL license and retake all required knowledge and skills tests. If your CDL license has been expired for less than one year, you may be eligible for a renewal instead of a new license.
It is recommended that you contact the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) driver license station or visit their website to obtain the most up-to-date information on the requirements and process for adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license.
To be eligible for an endorsement upgrade, you must hold a valid Montana CDL license and pass the required knowledge and skills tests for the specific endorsement you are seeking. The CDL Bus endorsement requires passing a written knowledge test and a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle controls, and on-road driving.
You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of legal presence, and proof of Montana residency when applying for an endorsement upgrade. Additionally, you will need to pay the required fees for the endorsement upgrade.
It is important to note that if your CDL license has been expired for more than one year, you will need to apply for a new CDL license and retake all required knowledge and skills tests. If your CDL license has been expired for less than one year, you may be eligible for a renewal instead of a new license.
It is recommended that you contact the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) driver license station or visit their website to obtain the most up-to-date information on the requirements and process for adding a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Montana. Some of these restrictions and limitations include:
1. Passenger Capacity: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you can only operate a commercial vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
2. Endorsement Type: Your CDL Bus endorsement will have a specific type designation indicating the specific type of bus you are authorized to operate. For example, a "P" endorsement allows you to operate a bus carrying passengers, while an "S" endorsement allows you to operate a school bus.
3. Medical Certification: As a CDL holder, you must maintain a valid medical certificate that meets the requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
4. Hours of Service: As a commercial driver, you are subject to federal Hours of Service regulations that limit the number of hours you can drive in a day and week.
5. Drug and Alcohol Testing: You are subject to mandatory drug and alcohol testing as required by federal regulations.
6. Speed Limits: In some states, commercial vehicles are subject to lower speed limits than passenger vehicles.
It is important to understand and follow all restrictions and limitations associated with your CDL Bus endorsement in order to maintain compliance with federal and state regulations and ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers.
1. Passenger Capacity: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you can only operate a commercial vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
2. Endorsement Type: Your CDL Bus endorsement will have a specific type designation indicating the specific type of bus you are authorized to operate. For example, a "P" endorsement allows you to operate a bus carrying passengers, while an "S" endorsement allows you to operate a school bus.
3. Medical Certification: As a CDL holder, you must maintain a valid medical certificate that meets the requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
4. Hours of Service: As a commercial driver, you are subject to federal Hours of Service regulations that limit the number of hours you can drive in a day and week.
5. Drug and Alcohol Testing: You are subject to mandatory drug and alcohol testing as required by federal regulations.
6. Speed Limits: In some states, commercial vehicles are subject to lower speed limits than passenger vehicles.
It is important to understand and follow all restrictions and limitations associated with your CDL Bus endorsement in order to maintain compliance with federal and state regulations and ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers.
