Passenger Transport: Riders, Stops, and Emergencies
The passenger is the cargo
Passenger drivers carry people, not freight, so the test focuses on boarding, securement of riders and their belongings, aisle and exit access, and behavior management. Riders may stand only behind the standee line; no one stands forward of that line or on stairs while the bus is moving. Keep aisles and emergency exits clear at all times, and never allow baggage to block an exit.
Stops and crossings
Stop close enough to the curb that riders do not step into traffic, but far enough out that the mirrors and doors clear obstacles. At railroad crossings, stop, look, and listen; open the door or window where required so you can hear an approaching train, and do not proceed until you are certain the tracks are clear. Never stop on the tracks.
Safety equipment and procedures
Know where the fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and emergency exits are, and how to operate each exit. Do a ride check for suspicious packages or unusual behavior, and report rather than confront. In an emergency evacuation, get riders far enough from the vehicle and account for everyone.
Traps
Questions test the standee line, exit clearance, and the rule that you never leave the driver's seat with the engine running unattended. Another favorite: loading and unloading procedures - count riders, watch the doorway, and never move until everyone is seated or holding a handrail.
Worked example
At a crossing with a raised gate but flashing lights, the correct action is to stop, look, listen with the door open, and wait until the signals stop - a gate that is up is not proof the tracks are clear.
Rule of thumb
Before every departure, confirm the door is closed, the aisle is clear, and every rider is seated or holding on.