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 South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering School Buses, Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Test, Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test and On-Road Driving. The School Bus endorsement can be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.
Number of Question
Passing Score
1. The overhead inside rearview mirror should be positioned to show:
Explanation
The top portion of the overhead inside rearview mirror should be positioned to display the top of the bus's rear window. This mirror positioning should allow the driver to see all of the students on the bus, including the heads of the students sitting immediately behind the driver.
2. Properly adjusted outside convex mirrors should allow the driver to see:
Explanation
On a school bus, outside convex mirrors should be adjusted to allow the driver to see at least one traffic lane on either side of the bus; the entire side of the bus up to the mirror mounts; and where the front of each rear tire touches the ground.
3. Before a trip, you should make sure that:
Explanation
When checking your vehicle's pedals during a pre-trip inspection, you should ensure that there is nothing under or around the pedals that will obstruct their use. Make sure the pedals are in proper working condition and that the surfaces of the pedals are grooved, if applicable.
4. If you must drive during periods of high winds, you should:
Explanation
A school bus's long sides are vulnerable to being pushed by winds. If you must drive in windy conditions, you should maintain a strong grip on the steering wheel, try to anticipate wind gusts, and slow down. If necessary, contact your dispatcher for instructions on how to proceed.
5. During exercises that are not the straight line backing exercise, you may exit your vehicle to check its position no more than:
Explanation
A driver is allowed to exit their vehicle to check its position during any basic control skills test exercise. This action is called a "look." During the straight line backing exercise, a driver may not exceed one look. During any other exercise, a driver may not exceed two looks.
6. During a basic vehicle control skills test, what is considered an encroachment?
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.
7. Properly adjusted mirrors on a school bus allow the driver to see ____ behind the bus.
Explanation
Proper mirror adjustment is vital to the safe operation of a school bus. A bus's flat mirrors should be adjusted so the driver is able to see 200 feet, or four bus lengths, behind the bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a South Dakota commercial driver's license (CDL) by passing the CDL written and skills tests.
2. Have a valid medical certificate on file with the Department of Public Safety.
3. Complete the Commercial Driver License Application and check the box indicating that you are applying for a passenger endorsement.
4. Pass the Passenger endorsement written test.
5. Schedule and pass a CDL skills test in a passenger vehicle, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Pay the appropriate fees for your CDL and passenger endorsement.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to drive and whether you will be transporting passengers for hire. Be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information.
1. Obtain a South Dakota commercial driver's license (CDL) by passing the CDL written and skills tests.
2. Have a valid medical certificate on file with the Department of Public Safety.
3. Complete the Commercial Driver License Application and check the box indicating that you are applying for a passenger endorsement.
4. Pass the Passenger endorsement written test.
5. Schedule and pass a CDL skills test in a passenger vehicle, which includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
6. Pay the appropriate fees for your CDL and passenger endorsement.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to drive and whether you will be transporting passengers for hire. Be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information.
To get a CDL Bus license in South Dakota, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 years old for interstate driving.
2. Have a valid South Dakota driver's license.
3. Have a current medical examiner's certificate, which certifies that you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Pass a vision test.
5. Pass the CDL written test(s) for the specific class of commercial vehicle you want to operate, including the Passenger endorsement test if you plan to operate a bus with passengers.
6. Obtain a learner's permit and practice driving with a commercial driver's license holder and in compliance with the restrictions of your permit.
7. Pass the CDL skills test, which includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving tests.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to drive and whether you will be transporting passengers for hire. Be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information.
1. Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 years old for interstate driving.
2. Have a valid South Dakota driver's license.
3. Have a current medical examiner's certificate, which certifies that you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
4. Pass a vision test.
5. Pass the CDL written test(s) for the specific class of commercial vehicle you want to operate, including the Passenger endorsement test if you plan to operate a bus with passengers.
6. Obtain a learner's permit and practice driving with a commercial driver's license holder and in compliance with the restrictions of your permit.
7. Pass the CDL skills test, which includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving tests.
It's important to note that additional requirements may apply depending on the type of bus you plan to drive and whether you will be transporting passengers for hire. Be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information.
South Dakota does not require specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement. However, it is highly recommended that you receive training from a reputable driving school or employer to ensure that you are fully prepared for the CDL skills test and for operating a commercial vehicle safely.
Additionally, if you plan to transport passengers for hire, you will need to comply with federal regulations and complete additional training, such as the Passenger Endorsement Training Program. This program covers topics such as safe driving practices, passenger safety, and emergency procedures.
Overall, while specific experience or training is not required by the state of South Dakota, it is recommended that you seek out training opportunities to ensure that you are fully prepared for the responsibilities of operating a commercial vehicle.
Additionally, if you plan to transport passengers for hire, you will need to comply with federal regulations and complete additional training, such as the Passenger Endorsement Training Program. This program covers topics such as safe driving practices, passenger safety, and emergency procedures.
Overall, while specific experience or training is not required by the state of South Dakota, it is recommended that you seek out training opportunities to ensure that you are fully prepared for the responsibilities of operating a commercial vehicle.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in South Dakota, depending on the size and weight of the vehicle you plan to drive and whether you will be transporting passengers for hire.
The following are the three classes of CDLs in South Dakota that allow for operation of a bus:
1. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or heavier or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or heavier, including buses that transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
2. Class C CDL: 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), but does not meet the criteria for a Class B CDL.
3. Passenger Endorsement: This endorsement is required for drivers who operate a bus designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) for hire.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of bus you plan to drive, such as the School Bus Endorsement if you plan to drive a school bus. Be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information.
The following are the three classes of CDLs in South Dakota that allow for operation of a bus:
1. Class B CDL: This license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or heavier or a combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or heavier, including buses that transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver).
2. Class C CDL: 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), but does not meet the criteria for a Class B CDL.
3. Passenger Endorsement: This endorsement is required for drivers who operate a bus designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) for hire.
It's important to note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of bus you plan to drive, such as the School Bus Endorsement if you plan to drive a school bus. Be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in South Dakota. You must bring a vehicle that is representative of the type of bus you plan to drive and that meets the requirements for the CDL skills test.
The vehicle must be in safe operating condition and meet South Dakota's requirements for commercial vehicles, including proper registration, insurance, and inspection.
Additionally, if you plan to obtain a Passenger Endorsement, you must bring a vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) and has a GVWR of at least 26,001 pounds.
It's important to note that before taking the CDL skills test, you must first pass the written knowledge exam and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). You can then schedule your CDL skills test with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.
The vehicle must be in safe operating condition and meet South Dakota's requirements for commercial vehicles, including proper registration, insurance, and inspection.
Additionally, if you plan to obtain a Passenger Endorsement, you must bring a vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) and has a GVWR of at least 26,001 pounds.
It's important to note that before taking the CDL skills test, you must first pass the written knowledge exam and obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). You can then schedule your CDL skills test with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.
Yes, there are specific skills and maneuvers that you will need to demonstrate during the CDL Bus driving test in South Dakota. The skills test will consist of three parts: the pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
During the basic vehicle control portion of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to perform various maneuvers in a closed course setting. These maneuvers may include:
1. Straight line backing
2. Offset backing
3. Parallel parking
4. Alley dock backing
During the on-road driving portion of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle on public roads. The examiner will evaluate your ability to perform various driving tasks, including:
1. Vehicle control and positioning
2. Shifting gears (if applicable)
3. Interacting with traffic
4. Turning
5. Lane changes and merges
6. Intersections and railroad crossings
7. Controlling speed and managing space
It's important to note that specific skills and maneuvers may vary depending on the type of bus you plan to drive, so be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information on the CDL Bus driving test requirements.
During the basic vehicle control portion of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to perform various maneuvers in a closed course setting. These maneuvers may include:
1. Straight line backing
2. Offset backing
3. Parallel parking
4. Alley dock backing
During the on-road driving portion of the test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle on public roads. The examiner will evaluate your ability to perform various driving tasks, including:
1. Vehicle control and positioning
2. Shifting gears (if applicable)
3. Interacting with traffic
4. Turning
5. Lane changes and merges
6. Intersections and railroad crossings
7. Controlling speed and managing space
It's important to note that specific skills and maneuvers may vary depending on the type of bus you plan to drive, so be sure to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for more information on the CDL Bus driving test requirements.
Yes, there are additional medical and physical requirements for a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must first hold a valid South Dakota commercial driver's license and pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination. This exam must be performed by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
The DOT physical exam evaluates your overall health and ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle, including your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other health conditions that may affect your ability to drive.
In addition to the DOT physical exam, you may also be required to meet specific medical and physical requirements set by your employer or the specific type of bus you plan to operate. For example, if you plan to operate a school bus, you may be required to pass a more comprehensive medical examination that includes hearing and vision tests, as well as additional screening for medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive.
It's important to note that if you have a medical condition that could affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle, you may be required to obtain a waiver or exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement, you must first hold a valid South Dakota commercial driver's license and pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination. This exam must be performed by a licensed medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.
The DOT physical exam evaluates your overall health and ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle, including your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other health conditions that may affect your ability to drive.
In addition to the DOT physical exam, you may also be required to meet specific medical and physical requirements set by your employer or the specific type of bus you plan to operate. For example, if you plan to operate a school bus, you may be required to pass a more comprehensive medical examination that includes hearing and vision tests, as well as additional screening for medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive.
It's important to note that if you have a medical condition that could affect your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle, you may be required to obtain a waiver or exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers without a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota if the vehicle meets the definition of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) as defined by federal regulations.
Under federal law, a CMV is defined as a vehicle that:
- Weighs 10,001 pounds or more
- Is designed or used to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver)
- Is used to transport hazardous materials in certain quantities
If you are operating a vehicle that meets this definition, you must hold a valid CDL Bus endorsement in order to legally transport passengers.
It's important to note that there are some exceptions to this requirement. For example, if you are operating a vehicle owned and operated by a private school or church, you may not be required to hold a CDL Bus endorsement. However, it's always best to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety to determine if any exceptions apply to your specific situation.
Operating a CMV without the proper endorsements can result in fines and other penalties, so it's important to ensure that you have the necessary credentials before transporting passengers.
Under federal law, a CMV is defined as a vehicle that:
- Weighs 10,001 pounds or more
- Is designed or used to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver)
- Is used to transport hazardous materials in certain quantities
If you are operating a vehicle that meets this definition, you must hold a valid CDL Bus endorsement in order to legally transport passengers.
It's important to note that there are some exceptions to this requirement. For example, if you are operating a vehicle owned and operated by a private school or church, you may not be required to hold a CDL Bus endorsement. However, it's always best to check with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety to determine if any exceptions apply to your specific situation.
Operating a CMV without the proper endorsements can result in fines and other penalties, so it's important to ensure that you have the necessary credentials before transporting passengers.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in South Dakota. To do so, you will need to take and pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test and any applicable skills tests.
Here are the steps to add a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in South Dakota:
1. Study the CDL Bus endorsement section of the South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual.
2. Take and pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test at a South Dakota Driver Licensing location.
3. Schedule and pass any applicable skills tests for the type of bus you plan to operate (e.g., passenger, school bus).
4. Pay the appropriate fee to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license.
It's important to note that if you are adding the CDL Bus endorsement to your license for the first time, you will need to complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination and provide a current Medical Examiner's Certificate.
Once you have successfully added the CDL Bus endorsement to your license, it will be valid for as long as your CDL is valid, typically up to five years.
Here are the steps to add a CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in South Dakota:
1. Study the CDL Bus endorsement section of the South Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual.
2. Take and pass the CDL Bus endorsement knowledge test at a South Dakota Driver Licensing location.
3. Schedule and pass any applicable skills tests for the type of bus you plan to operate (e.g., passenger, school bus).
4. Pay the appropriate fee to add the CDL Bus endorsement to your license.
It's important to note that if you are adding the CDL Bus endorsement to your license for the first time, you will need to complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination and provide a current Medical Examiner's Certificate.
Once you have successfully added the CDL Bus endorsement to your license, it will be valid for as long as your CDL is valid, typically up to five years.
Yes, there are certain restrictions and limitations that apply to drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota.
Here are some of the key restrictions and limitations that apply:
1. Passenger limits: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you are limited to carrying the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry. You may not exceed the manufacturer's rated capacity or the seating capacity indicated on the vehicle.
2. School bus restrictions: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement and plan to operate a school bus, there are additional requirements and restrictions that apply. For example, you may be required to pass a criminal background check, submit to random drug and alcohol testing, and meet specific medical and training requirements.
3. Hazardous materials: If you plan to transport hazardous materials as part of your bus operations, you will need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL and comply with all applicable regulations.
4. Speed limits: In South Dakota, buses with a seating capacity of 16 or more passengers are subject to lower maximum speed limits on highways than other vehicles. In addition, buses must obey posted speed limits in all areas.
5. Hours of service: As a commercial driver with a CDL Bus endorsement, you are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations that limit the amount of time you can drive each day and each week.
It's important to be aware of these restrictions and limitations if you plan to operate a bus with a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines, suspension or revocation of your CDL, or other penalties.
Here are some of the key restrictions and limitations that apply:
1. Passenger limits: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement, you are limited to carrying the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry. You may not exceed the manufacturer's rated capacity or the seating capacity indicated on the vehicle.
2. School bus restrictions: If you have a CDL Bus endorsement and plan to operate a school bus, there are additional requirements and restrictions that apply. For example, you may be required to pass a criminal background check, submit to random drug and alcohol testing, and meet specific medical and training requirements.
3. Hazardous materials: If you plan to transport hazardous materials as part of your bus operations, you will need to obtain additional endorsements on your CDL and comply with all applicable regulations.
4. Speed limits: In South Dakota, buses with a seating capacity of 16 or more passengers are subject to lower maximum speed limits on highways than other vehicles. In addition, buses must obey posted speed limits in all areas.
5. Hours of service: As a commercial driver with a CDL Bus endorsement, you are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations that limit the amount of time you can drive each day and each week.
It's important to be aware of these restrictions and limitations if you plan to operate a bus with a CDL Bus endorsement in South Dakota. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines, suspension or revocation of your CDL, or other penalties.
