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 New Mexico 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. During a basic vehicle controls skills test exercise, your vehicle's final position should be:
Explanation
You should finish each exercise with your vehicle in the exact position described by the examiner. You can be penalized for failing to complete an exercise exactly in the manner described by the examiner, potentially resulting in failure of the basic control skills test.
9. An encroachment is when:
Explanation
An encroachment during the basic vehicle control skills test is when an exercise boundary line is touched or crossed by any portion of the applicant's vehicle. Every encroachment will be counted as an error.
10. When performing a pre-trip inspection and looking into the fifth wheel gap, you should:
Explanation
When inspecting a tractor/trailer coupling, look into the fifth wheel gap and make sure the locking jaws are fully closed around the kingpin.
11. When making a stop to pick up students, a driver should ensure all surrounding traffic has stopped before:
Explanation
When stopping to pick up students, a school bus driver should ensure that all surrounding traffic has stopped before opening the door and signaling for the students to approach the bus.
12. Loading and unloading a 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.
13. During the vehicle inspection test, you must be able to adequately check all of the following, except:
Explanation
During the pre-trip vehicle inspection test, you will be asked to check the power steering, water pump, alternator, and air compressor belts, if the vehicle is equipped.
14. During the vehicle inspection test, you must be able to do all of the following, except:
Explanation
During the pre-trip vehicle inspection test, you will be asked to indicate where the dipstick is located. You will need to show that the oil level is within a safe operating range and above the refill mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Bus endorsement in New Mexico, you must follow these steps:
1. Obtain a New Mexico CDL learner's permit by passing a written knowledge test and a vision screening test. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL learner's permit.
2. Obtain a New Mexico CDL by passing a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL.
3. Once you have obtained your New Mexico CDL, you can apply for the Bus endorsement by passing another written knowledge test and paying the required fees.
4. You will need to provide documentation that shows you have completed the necessary training to operate a bus, such as completion of a training course or proof of experience driving buses.
5. You will also need to pass a background check and provide proof of your identity and residency in New Mexico.
6. After passing the written knowledge test and meeting all the requirements, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement may have additional requirements depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger capacity or hazardous materials transportation. Make sure to research and comply with all relevant rules and regulations before applying for the endorsement.
1. Obtain a New Mexico CDL learner's permit by passing a written knowledge test and a vision screening test. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL learner's permit.
2. Obtain a New Mexico CDL by passing a skills test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL.
3. Once you have obtained your New Mexico CDL, you can apply for the Bus endorsement by passing another written knowledge test and paying the required fees.
4. You will need to provide documentation that shows you have completed the necessary training to operate a bus, such as completion of a training course or proof of experience driving buses.
5. You will also need to pass a background check and provide proof of your identity and residency in New Mexico.
6. After passing the written knowledge test and meeting all the requirements, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement.
It is important to note that obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement may have additional requirements depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger capacity or hazardous materials transportation. Make sure to research and comply with all relevant rules and regulations before applying for the endorsement.
To get a CDL Bus license in New Mexico, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a bus within the state's borders, or 21 years old if you plan to drive a bus across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Driving Record: You must have a valid New Mexico driver's license and a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations or convictions for the past two years.
3. Medical Certification: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certification from an approved healthcare provider to show that you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. CDL Learner's Permit: You must obtain a CDL Learner's Permit by passing a written knowledge test and a vision screening test.
5. CDL Skills Test: You must pass the three-part CDL Skills Test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
6. Bus Endorsement: To drive a bus, you must also obtain the Bus Endorsement by passing an additional written knowledge test and meeting specific training requirements.
7. Background Check: You must pass a background check and provide proof of your identity and residency in New Mexico.
Make sure to study the New Mexico Commercial Driver's License Manual thoroughly, complete any necessary training courses, and comply with all relevant rules and regulations before applying for your CDL Bus license.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a bus within the state's borders, or 21 years old if you plan to drive a bus across state lines or transport hazardous materials.
2. Driving Record: You must have a valid New Mexico driver's license and a clean driving record with no serious traffic violations or convictions for the past two years.
3. Medical Certification: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a medical certification from an approved healthcare provider to show that you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. CDL Learner's Permit: You must obtain a CDL Learner's Permit by passing a written knowledge test and a vision screening test.
5. CDL Skills Test: You must pass the three-part CDL Skills Test, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test.
6. Bus Endorsement: To drive a bus, you must also obtain the Bus Endorsement by passing an additional written knowledge test and meeting specific training requirements.
7. Background Check: You must pass a background check and provide proof of your identity and residency in New Mexico.
Make sure to study the New Mexico Commercial Driver's License Manual thoroughly, complete any necessary training courses, and comply with all relevant rules and regulations before applying for your CDL Bus license.
Yes, specific experience or training is required to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in New Mexico. To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must provide documentation that shows you have completed the necessary training to operate a bus, such as completion of a training course or proof of experience driving buses.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that all bus drivers complete specialized training to ensure they are qualified to operate a bus safely. The training covers topics such as passenger safety, vehicle inspection, and emergency procedures.
In addition to the FMCSA requirements, New Mexico has its own requirements for training and experience. You will need to complete an approved bus driver training program or have at least two years of experience driving buses. You may also need to complete additional training if you plan to transport hazardous materials or passengers with special needs.
Make sure to research and comply with all relevant rules and regulations before applying for the CDL Bus endorsement.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that all bus drivers complete specialized training to ensure they are qualified to operate a bus safely. The training covers topics such as passenger safety, vehicle inspection, and emergency procedures.
In addition to the FMCSA requirements, New Mexico has its own requirements for training and experience. You will need to complete an approved bus driver training program or have at least two years of experience driving buses. You may also need to complete additional training if you plan to transport hazardous materials or passengers with special needs.
Make sure to research and comply with all relevant rules and regulations before applying for the CDL Bus endorsement.
Yes, there are different classes of CDL Bus licenses in New Mexico, which are based on the weight and type of vehicle you plan to drive. The three classes of CDL Bus licenses are:
1. Class B: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more and/or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds.
2. Class C: 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 that transports hazardous materials.
3. Class A: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, including a towed vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
Each class requires passing the corresponding CDL Skills Test, which includes specific knowledge and skills related to driving the type and weight of vehicles for that class.
Additionally, there are different endorsements that can be added to your CDL Bus license based on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to transport. For example, if you plan to drive a bus that transports hazardous materials, you will need to obtain the Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) by passing an additional written knowledge test and meeting specific training requirements.
1. Class B: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more and/or a combination of vehicles with a total weight of less than 26,001 pounds.
2. Class C: 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 that transports hazardous materials.
3. Class A: This license allows you to operate a combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, including a towed vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
Each class requires passing the corresponding CDL Skills Test, which includes specific knowledge and skills related to driving the type and weight of vehicles for that class.
Additionally, there are different endorsements that can be added to your CDL Bus license based on the type of vehicle or cargo you plan to transport. For example, if you plan to drive a bus that transports hazardous materials, you will need to obtain the Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) by passing an additional written knowledge test and meeting specific training requirements.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in New Mexico. The vehicle used for the driving test must meet certain requirements and be provided by a third-party tester or the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).
The vehicle used for the driving test must have a valid registration, insurance, and be equipped with all necessary safety equipment such as working mirrors, turn signals, and brakes. It must also meet the weight and type requirements for the class of CDL Bus license you are applying for.
The MVD or third-party tester will provide a vehicle that meets all the necessary requirements for the CDL Skills Test. You will need to show proof of insurance and provide any other documentation required by the tester or MVD.
It is important to note that you should not attempt to practice or drive a commercial vehicle without proper training or a valid CDL Bus license. Driving without a proper license can result in fines, penalties, and even suspension of your driving privileges.
The vehicle used for the driving test must have a valid registration, insurance, and be equipped with all necessary safety equipment such as working mirrors, turn signals, and brakes. It must also meet the weight and type requirements for the class of CDL Bus license you are applying for.
The MVD or third-party tester will provide a vehicle that meets all the necessary requirements for the CDL Skills Test. You will need to show proof of insurance and provide any other documentation required by the tester or MVD.
It is important to note that you should not attempt to practice or drive a commercial vehicle without proper training or a valid CDL Bus license. Driving without a proper license can result in fines, penalties, and even suspension of your driving privileges.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in New Mexico, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to perform certain skills and maneuvers based on the class of CDL Bus license you are applying for. The skills and maneuvers you will be tested on include:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, including checking all safety equipment, adjusting mirrors, and ensuring that the vehicle is in proper working condition.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a closed course setting by performing maneuvers such as straight-line backing, shifting gears, and turning within a confined space.
3. On-road driving: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to drive the vehicle on public roads while following all traffic laws and safety procedures. The examiner will evaluate your ability to handle the vehicle in various traffic situations such as intersections, curves, and hills.
4. Emergency procedures: You may also be tested on your ability to respond to emergency situations such as brake failure or a sudden stop.
It is important to note that each class of CDL Bus license has specific requirements for the Skills Test. You should review the New Mexico CDL Manual for the specific requirements for the class of CDL Bus license you are applying for and practice these skills with a licensed instructor before attempting the Skills Test.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will be asked to perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, including checking all safety equipment, adjusting mirrors, and ensuring that the vehicle is in proper working condition.
2. Basic vehicle control: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle in a closed course setting by performing maneuvers such as straight-line backing, shifting gears, and turning within a confined space.
3. On-road driving: You will be required to demonstrate your ability to drive the vehicle on public roads while following all traffic laws and safety procedures. The examiner will evaluate your ability to handle the vehicle in various traffic situations such as intersections, curves, and hills.
4. Emergency procedures: You may also be tested on your ability to respond to emergency situations such as brake failure or a sudden stop.
It is important to note that each class of CDL Bus license has specific requirements for the Skills Test. You should review the New Mexico CDL Manual for the specific requirements for the class of CDL Bus license you are applying for and practice these skills with a licensed instructor before attempting the Skills Test.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement in New Mexico. These requirements are in place to ensure that commercial drivers are physically capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the medical and physical requirements for CDL holders. In order to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in New Mexico, you must:
1. Meet the general physical qualifications: You must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver's license, and be able to read and speak English.
2. Pass a medical examination: You must pass a medical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). The examination will evaluate your overall health and ability to perform essential job functions.
3. Meet vision requirements: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses, and have a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
4. Meet hearing requirements: You must be able to hear a forced whisper from at least five feet away or pass an audiometric test.
5. Control diabetes: If you have insulin-treated diabetes, you may be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement if you meet certain requirements outlined by the FMCSA.
It is important to note that if you have certain medical conditions or disabilities, you may not be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement. You should review the New Mexico CDL Manual and consult with a certified medical examiner if you have any questions about your eligibility.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the medical and physical requirements for CDL holders. In order to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in New Mexico, you must:
1. Meet the general physical qualifications: You must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver's license, and be able to read and speak English.
2. Pass a medical examination: You must pass a medical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). The examination will evaluate your overall health and ability to perform essential job functions.
3. Meet vision requirements: You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses, and have a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye.
4. Meet hearing requirements: You must be able to hear a forced whisper from at least five feet away or pass an audiometric test.
5. Control diabetes: If you have insulin-treated diabetes, you may be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement if you meet certain requirements outlined by the FMCSA.
It is important to note that if you have certain medical conditions or disabilities, you may not be eligible for a CDL Bus endorsement. You should review the New Mexico CDL Manual and consult with a certified medical examiner if you have any questions about your eligibility.
No, you cannot transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in New Mexico. A CDL Bus endorsement is required for anyone who operates a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or a vehicle that weighs more than 26,001 pounds.
Operating a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsement is illegal and can result in fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges. Additionally, it is important to note that passengers' safety is at risk if the driver is not properly trained and licensed.
If you are interested in transporting passengers as part of your job, you must obtain the proper CDL Bus endorsement and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
Operating a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsement is illegal and can result in fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges. Additionally, it is important to note that passengers' safety is at risk if the driver is not properly trained and licensed.
If you are interested in transporting passengers as part of your job, you must obtain the proper CDL Bus endorsement and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in New Mexico. However, you will need to pass the required knowledge and skills tests for the CDL Bus endorsement and pay a fee to add the endorsement to your license.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Study the CDL manual: Review the New Mexico CDL manual and study the sections that cover passenger transport and safety.
2. Take and pass the knowledge test: Schedule an appointment at a New Mexico MVD office and take the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. You will need to answer at least 80% of the questions correctly to pass.
3. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP): After passing the knowledge test, you can obtain a CLP with a passenger endorsement. This will allow you to practice driving a commercial vehicle with a licensed CDL holder in the passenger seat.
4. Practice driving: Practice driving a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers until you are confident in your ability to pass the skills test.
5. Take and pass the skills test: Schedule an appointment with a third-party skills testing organization (STO) approved by New Mexico MVD and take the CDL Bus endorsement skills test. You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed for passenger transport.
6. Pay for the endorsement: Once you have passed both tests, pay the fee required by New Mexico MVD to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license.
It is important to note that if your current CDL license is not valid or has been expired for more than one year, you will need to apply for a new license instead of adding an endorsement.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Study the CDL manual: Review the New Mexico CDL manual and study the sections that cover passenger transport and safety.
2. Take and pass the knowledge test: Schedule an appointment at a New Mexico MVD office and take the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test. You will need to answer at least 80% of the questions correctly to pass.
3. Obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP): After passing the knowledge test, you can obtain a CLP with a passenger endorsement. This will allow you to practice driving a commercial vehicle with a licensed CDL holder in the passenger seat.
4. Practice driving: Practice driving a commercial vehicle designed to transport passengers until you are confident in your ability to pass the skills test.
5. Take and pass the skills test: Schedule an appointment with a third-party skills testing organization (STO) approved by New Mexico MVD and take the CDL Bus endorsement skills test. You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle designed for passenger transport.
6. Pay for the endorsement: Once you have passed both tests, pay the fee required by New Mexico MVD to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license.
It is important to note that if your current CDL license is not valid or has been expired for more than one year, you will need to apply for a new license instead of adding an endorsement.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in New Mexico. Some of the common restrictions and limitations include:
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may only transport the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry. Exceeding this limit can result in fines and other penalties.
2. Endorsement specific restrictions: Some endorsements may have specific restrictions that limit drivers to certain types of vehicles or routes.
3. Medical requirements: CDL holders are required to meet certain medical standards in order to maintain their license and endorsement. They must undergo regular medical exams and provide proof of their physical fitness.
4. Alcohol and drug use: CDL holders are subject to strict rules regarding alcohol and drug use while driving. They may not operate a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher, and they can be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
5. Hours of service: Commercial drivers are required to follow strict hours-of-service regulations that limit the amount of time they can drive without taking a break.
It is important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to understand and comply with all relevant restrictions and limitations in order to ensure the safety of their passengers and maintain their license.
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement may only transport the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry. Exceeding this limit can result in fines and other penalties.
2. Endorsement specific restrictions: Some endorsements may have specific restrictions that limit drivers to certain types of vehicles or routes.
3. Medical requirements: CDL holders are required to meet certain medical standards in order to maintain their license and endorsement. They must undergo regular medical exams and provide proof of their physical fitness.
4. Alcohol and drug use: CDL holders are subject to strict rules regarding alcohol and drug use while driving. They may not operate a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher, and they can be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
5. Hours of service: Commercial drivers are required to follow strict hours-of-service regulations that limit the amount of time they can drive without taking a break.
It is important for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement to understand and comply with all relevant restrictions and limitations in order to ensure the safety of their passengers and maintain their license.
