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 Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from chapters covering: Safety, Passengers, School Buses, Cargo, 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. Over-length loads require:
Explanation
Over-length, over-width, and/or overweight loads may require special permits from the Department of Transportation.
16. How far in advance of a school bus stop should a bus's lights be activated?
Explanation
If a school bus is equipped with alternating flashing amber warning lights, they should be activated at least 200 feet (approximately 5 to 10 seconds) before a stop, unless state law requires otherwise.
17. After a bus trip is completed, the vehicle:
Explanation
Buses should be inspected at the end of every trip. Key safety items could have been damaged by passengers, so an inspection allows these damages to be repaired before another trip is made.
18. Move over laws require:
Explanation
If an emergency vehicle with its lights on is stopped on the side of the road, move over laws require drivers to vacate the lane directly next to the vehicle, if possible. If a driver cannot move over safely, they must slow down and proceed with caution.
19. You should cover cargo:
Explanation
You should cover your cargo to protect people from the cargo if it spills, as well as to protect the cargo from the weather.
20. Alcohol begins to affect the body:
Explanation
Alcohol consumption impairs muscle coordination, reaction time, depth perception, vision, judgement, and inhibition. For some people, signs of impairment may begin with the first drink of alcohol. It is safest to not operate any motor vehicle after consuming alcohol in any amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Tennessee, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a Tennessee CDL: You must first obtain a Tennessee Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the written and driving tests.
2. Meet the requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, pass a physical exam, and have a clean driving record.
3. Study for the CDL Bus endorsement test: Obtain a copy of the Tennessee Commercial Driver License Manual and study the section on bus endorsements.
4. Schedule an appointment: Schedule an appointment with your local Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center. You can make an appointment online or by phone.
5. Take the test: Take and pass the CDL Bus endorsement test, which includes both a written and skills test.
6. Pay any fees: Pay any fees associated with obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement.
7. Receive your endorsement: Once you have passed the tests and met all requirements, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement on your commercial driver's license.
Note: It is important to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement by keeping up with any required training or continuing education courses.
1. Obtain a Tennessee CDL: You must first obtain a Tennessee Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the written and driving tests.
2. Meet the requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, pass a physical exam, and have a clean driving record.
3. Study for the CDL Bus endorsement test: Obtain a copy of the Tennessee Commercial Driver License Manual and study the section on bus endorsements.
4. Schedule an appointment: Schedule an appointment with your local Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center. You can make an appointment online or by phone.
5. Take the test: Take and pass the CDL Bus endorsement test, which includes both a written and skills test.
6. Pay any fees: Pay any fees associated with obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement.
7. Receive your endorsement: Once you have passed the tests and met all requirements, you will receive your CDL Bus endorsement on your commercial driver's license.
Note: It is important to maintain your CDL Bus endorsement by keeping up with any required training or continuing education courses.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Tennessee, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus license. However, you can only drive within the state of Tennessee if you are 18-20 years old. If you want to drive outside of Tennessee or transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Valid driver's license: You must have a valid driver's license to apply for a CDL.
3. Medical examination: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to ensure you are physically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle.
4. Commercial learner's permit (CLP): You must obtain a CLP by passing the written tests for the specific type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate. You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
5. Skills test: You must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test in the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
6. Background check: You must pass a background check, including a driving record check and criminal history check.
7. Fees: You will need to pay all required fees associated with obtaining your CDL Bus license.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school bus endorsements.
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL Bus license. However, you can only drive within the state of Tennessee if you are 18-20 years old. If you want to drive outside of Tennessee or transport hazardous materials, you must be at least 21 years old.
2. Valid driver's license: You must have a valid driver's license to apply for a CDL.
3. Medical examination: You must pass a medical examination and obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate to ensure you are physically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle.
4. Commercial learner's permit (CLP): You must obtain a CLP by passing the written tests for the specific type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate. You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
5. Skills test: You must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and an on-road driving test in the type of commercial vehicle you plan to operate.
6. Background check: You must pass a background check, including a driving record check and criminal history check.
7. Fees: You will need to pay all required fees associated with obtaining your CDL Bus license.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as passenger or school bus endorsements.
Yes, you will need specific experience or training to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Tennessee. The exact requirements depend on the type of bus you plan to operate and the endorsement you need. Here are some of the general requirements:
1. Passenger endorsement: If you plan to transport passengers, you must have a Passenger Endorsement (P) on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and demonstrate your ability to operate a passenger vehicle safely. You must also complete a training program that meets the requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
2. School bus endorsement: If you plan to operate a school bus, you must have a School Bus Endorsement (S) on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and demonstrate your ability to operate a school bus safely. You must also complete a training program that meets the requirements of the FMCSA and the Tennessee Department of Education.
3. Experience: You may be required to have specific experience before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. For example, to obtain a school bus endorsement, you may need to have experience working as a school bus driver or attending a training program.
It is important to note that the FMCSA has specific regulations regarding training requirements for commercial drivers, including those with CDL Bus endorsements. You should check with your local Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center for specific requirements regarding experience and training for CDL Bus endorsements.
1. Passenger endorsement: If you plan to transport passengers, you must have a Passenger Endorsement (P) on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and demonstrate your ability to operate a passenger vehicle safely. You must also complete a training program that meets the requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
2. School bus endorsement: If you plan to operate a school bus, you must have a School Bus Endorsement (S) on your CDL. To obtain this endorsement, you must pass a written test and demonstrate your ability to operate a school bus safely. You must also complete a training program that meets the requirements of the FMCSA and the Tennessee Department of Education.
3. Experience: You may be required to have specific experience before obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement. For example, to obtain a school bus endorsement, you may need to have experience working as a school bus driver or attending a training program.
It is important to note that the FMCSA has specific regulations regarding training requirements for commercial drivers, including those with CDL Bus endorsements. You should check with your local Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center for specific requirements regarding experience and training for CDL Bus endorsements.
Yes, there are different classes or types of CDL Bus licenses in Tennessee. The classes are determined by the weight of the vehicle and the number of passengers it can carry. Here are the three classes of CDL Bus licenses:
1. Class B: A Class B CDL Bus license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more when towing a vehicle with a weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds. You can also operate a bus with a seating capacity of more than 15 passengers.
2. Class C: A Class C CDL Bus license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds and designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials. You can also operate a combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of Class A or Class B.
3. Passenger endorsement: If you plan to transport passengers, you must have a Passenger Endorsement (P) on your CDL. This endorsement is required for all CDL holders who transport passengers for hire.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as school bus or hazardous materials endorsements.
It's important to remember that each class and endorsement requires specific knowledge and skills tests, so it's important to study and prepare accordingly.
1. Class B: A Class B CDL Bus license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, or a combination of vehicles with a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more when towing a vehicle with a weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds. You can also operate a bus with a seating capacity of more than 15 passengers.
2. Class C: A Class C CDL Bus license allows you to operate a single vehicle with a weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds and designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or hazardous materials. You can also operate a combination of vehicles that do not meet the definition of Class A or Class B.
3. Passenger endorsement: If you plan to transport passengers, you must have a Passenger Endorsement (P) on your CDL. This endorsement is required for all CDL holders who transport passengers for hire.
Note that additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of bus you plan to operate, such as school bus or hazardous materials endorsements.
It's important to remember that each class and endorsement requires specific knowledge and skills tests, so it's important to study and prepare accordingly.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Tennessee. To obtain a CDL Bus license, you must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and a road test. The skills test must be conducted in the type of vehicle for which you are seeking a CDL endorsement.
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security provides the vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test. This vehicle will be representative of the type of bus you will be operating and will have all necessary safety features and equipment.
Before taking the skills test, you must also pass a knowledge test that covers topics such as vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and safe driving practices. You will need to provide your own vehicle for the knowledge test.
It's important to note that you must hold a valid Tennessee driver's license and have a clean driving record to obtain a CDL Bus license. You must also meet all other requirements for obtaining a CDL, including passing a medical examination and meeting age requirements.
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security provides the vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test. This vehicle will be representative of the type of bus you will be operating and will have all necessary safety features and equipment.
Before taking the skills test, you must also pass a knowledge test that covers topics such as vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and safe driving practices. You will need to provide your own vehicle for the knowledge test.
It's important to note that you must hold a valid Tennessee driver's license and have a clean driving record to obtain a CDL Bus license. You must also meet all other requirements for obtaining a CDL, including passing a medical examination and meeting age requirements.
Yes, during the CDL Bus driving test in Tennessee, you will need to demonstrate specific skills and maneuvers. The test consists of three parts: a pre-trip inspection, a basic vehicle control skills test, and a road test. Here are some of the skills and maneuvers you will need to demonstrate:
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to inspect your vehicle and identify any safety issues or defects. You will be tested on your ability to identify and explain the various parts of the bus, including the engine compartment, brake system, steering system, suspension system, and more.
2. Basic vehicle control skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control your vehicle in a variety of situations. This includes backing up, turning around in a confined space, and maneuvering through an S-curve.
3. Road test: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate your vehicle on the road. This includes obeying traffic laws, making turns, changing lanes, merging onto highways, and more.
During the test, you will also be evaluated on your ability to communicate effectively with other drivers and follow all safety procedures. It's important to practice your driving skills and study the CDL Bus manual before taking the test.
1. Pre-trip inspection: You will need to inspect your vehicle and identify any safety issues or defects. You will be tested on your ability to identify and explain the various parts of the bus, including the engine compartment, brake system, steering system, suspension system, and more.
2. Basic vehicle control skills: You will need to demonstrate your ability to control your vehicle in a variety of situations. This includes backing up, turning around in a confined space, and maneuvering through an S-curve.
3. Road test: You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate your vehicle on the road. This includes obeying traffic laws, making turns, changing lanes, merging onto highways, and more.
During the test, you will also be evaluated on your ability to communicate effectively with other drivers and follow all safety procedures. It's important to practice your driving skills and study the CDL Bus manual before taking the test.
Yes, there are medical and physical requirements that must be met in order to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Tennessee. You must pass a medical examination and meet certain physical requirements to ensure that you are capable of safely operating a bus.
The medical exam must be conducted by a certified medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The examiner will evaluate your overall health, including your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other factors.
In addition to the medical exam, you must meet certain physical requirements. You must have a 70-degree field of vision in each eye and be able to distinguish colors correctly. You must also have the ability to hear a forced whisper from at least five feet away, with or without a hearing aid.
If you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely, you may be required to provide additional documentation or obtain a waiver from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
It's important to note that these requirements apply not only when obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement, but also throughout your career as a commercial driver. You will need to renew your medical certification every two years in order to maintain your CDL license.
The medical exam must be conducted by a certified medical examiner who is listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The examiner will evaluate your overall health, including your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other factors.
In addition to the medical exam, you must meet certain physical requirements. You must have a 70-degree field of vision in each eye and be able to distinguish colors correctly. You must also have the ability to hear a forced whisper from at least five feet away, with or without a hearing aid.
If you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely, you may be required to provide additional documentation or obtain a waiver from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
It's important to note that these requirements apply not only when obtaining your CDL Bus endorsement, but also throughout your career as a commercial driver. You will need to renew your medical certification every two years in order to maintain your CDL license.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers in a commercial vehicle without a CDL Bus endorsement in Tennessee. A CDL Bus endorsement is required for anyone who operates a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
The only exception is if you are operating a vehicle that is considered a "school bus." In Tennessee, drivers of school buses are required to have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a "P" (passenger) endorsement, but they are not required to have a separate CDL Bus endorsement.
It's important to note that operating a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsements can result in fines and other penalties. Additionally, it can put your passengers and other drivers at risk if you are not properly trained and qualified to operate the vehicle.
If you are interested in obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to pass the appropriate knowledge and skills tests and meet all of the medical and physical requirements.
The only exception is if you are operating a vehicle that is considered a "school bus." In Tennessee, drivers of school buses are required to have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a "P" (passenger) endorsement, but they are not required to have a separate CDL Bus endorsement.
It's important to note that operating a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsements can result in fines and other penalties. Additionally, it can put your passengers and other drivers at risk if you are not properly trained and qualified to operate the vehicle.
If you are interested in obtaining a CDL Bus endorsement, you will need to pass the appropriate knowledge and skills tests and meet all of the medical and physical requirements.
Yes, you can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license in Tennessee. You do not need to apply for a new license.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license, you will need to pass the appropriate knowledge and skills tests for the endorsement. You must also meet all of the medical and physical requirements for operating a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
Once you have passed the tests and meet all requirements, you can go to your local Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center to add the endorsement to your CDL license. You will need to provide proof of passing the knowledge and skills tests, as well as any other required documentation.
It's important to note that adding endorsements to your CDL license may result in additional fees and requirements, such as periodic medical certifications. Be sure to check with your local Driver Services Center for any specific requirements related to adding endorsements to your CDL license.
To add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL license, you will need to pass the appropriate knowledge and skills tests for the endorsement. You must also meet all of the medical and physical requirements for operating a commercial motor vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
Once you have passed the tests and meet all requirements, you can go to your local Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center to add the endorsement to your CDL license. You will need to provide proof of passing the knowledge and skills tests, as well as any other required documentation.
It's important to note that adding endorsements to your CDL license may result in additional fees and requirements, such as periodic medical certifications. Be sure to check with your local Driver Services Center for any specific requirements related to adding endorsements to your CDL license.
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations for drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Tennessee. Some of these restrictions and limitations include:
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are only allowed to transport the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry. If the vehicle is designed to carry 16 or more passengers, the driver must also have a passenger endorsement.
2. Endorsement requirements: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must also have any other endorsements required for the type of vehicle they are operating. For example, if they are driving a vehicle with air brakes, they must have an air brake endorsement.
3. Speed limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to lower speed limits than other commercial drivers in certain situations. For example, they may be required to drive at slower speeds on winding or mountainous roads.
4. Hours of service: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations, which limit the number of hours they can drive in a day and week.
5. Alcohol and drug testing: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to alcohol and drug testing requirements, including pre-employment testing and random testing.
It's important to follow all restrictions and limitations when operating a commercial motor vehicle with a CDL Bus endorsement in order to maintain safety on the roads and avoid penalties or fines for non-compliance.
1. Passenger limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are only allowed to transport the number of passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry. If the vehicle is designed to carry 16 or more passengers, the driver must also have a passenger endorsement.
2. Endorsement requirements: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must also have any other endorsements required for the type of vehicle they are operating. For example, if they are driving a vehicle with air brakes, they must have an air brake endorsement.
3. Speed limits: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to lower speed limits than other commercial drivers in certain situations. For example, they may be required to drive at slower speeds on winding or mountainous roads.
4. Hours of service: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to federal hours-of-service regulations, which limit the number of hours they can drive in a day and week.
5. Alcohol and drug testing: Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement are subject to alcohol and drug testing requirements, including pre-employment testing and random testing.
It's important to follow all restrictions and limitations when operating a commercial motor vehicle with a CDL Bus endorsement in order to maintain safety on the roads and avoid penalties or fines for non-compliance.
