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Maryland CDL Passenger Test study materials
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Maryland CDL Passenger Test practice questions

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Question 1Vehicle Inspection

During a pre-trip inspection of a passenger-carrying vehicle, you must check the emergency exits. Which condition makes an emergency exit unacceptable for service?

  1. The exit release handle is missing its cover and will not release the door Correct answer.
  2. The exit has a visible red EXIT marking and instruction decal
  3. The exit window is clean and unobstructed from the interior
  4. The exit door opens freely from the inside with normal hand pressure

Explanation

Emergency exits must open reliably with a simple, obvious motion, so a handle that will not release the door means the vehicle cannot be dispatched until it is repaired. Markings and decals must be legible, and exit windows must be clear so passengers can find and use them. Any exit that fails to operate freely is an out-of-service defect.

Question 2Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the service door of a transit-style bus before departure. Which observation indicates the door control needs attention?

  1. The door glass is free of cracks and the weather seal is intact
  2. The door hesitates and stalls partway when the control is held Correct answer.
  3. The door closes flush and the warning light extinguishes
  4. The door opens and closes fully with no binding through its travel

Explanation

A service door should travel smoothly from fully open to fully closed without stalling. Hesitation or binding suggests a linkage, air, or control problem that could trap or injure a passenger. Full, smooth travel with an extinguished warning light is the normal standard.

Question 3Vehicle Inspection

While checking the passenger compartment, you find a seat whose frame is loose and rocks when pushed. What is the correct action?

  1. Move the seat cushion to another row and keep operating
  2. Leave it in place but tell passengers to avoid that seat
  3. Tighten nothing and note it for the next scheduled inspection
  4. Tag it out of service or repair it before carrying passengers Correct answer.

Explanation

A loose seat frame can fail under load and injure a passenger, so the defect must be corrected or the seat removed from service before passengers board. Verbal warnings to passengers do not correct a structural defect. Deferring repair to a later inspection leaves an unsafe seat available for use.

Question 4Vehicle Inspection

Before driving a bus with passengers, you check the passenger seat belts or restraint devices. What is the inspection standard?

  1. Only the driver's belt must be checked before departure
  2. Belts are checked once a month during maintenance
  3. Belts are checked for wear and proper latching at each equipped position Correct answer.
  4. Belts are inspected only when a passenger complains

Explanation

Where passenger restraints are installed, each position should be checked for fraying, cuts, and proper latch function during the pre-trip inspection. A belt that will not latch offers no protection in a crash. Restraints are part of the vehicle's safety equipment and are inspected before each trip.

Question 5Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus interior lights and passenger signaling devices. Which finding is a defect you must correct?

  1. The stepwell light illuminates when the door opens
  2. The stop-request cord sounds a chime when pulled
  3. The stop-request signal fails to sound when the cord is pulled Correct answer.
  4. The reading lights come on when switched

Explanation

Passenger signaling devices must work so riders can request a stop safely. A cord that does not sound the chime or bell is a defect that must be repaired before the bus carries passengers. Working chimes, lights, and stepwell illumination are all normal conditions.

Question 6Vehicle Inspection

You are checking the tires on a passenger bus during the pre-trip inspection. Which condition requires the vehicle to be placed out of service?

  1. Correct cold inflation pressure at all positions
  2. A cut deep enough to expose the cord in the tread Correct answer.
  3. Tread depth above the minimum with even wear
  4. Valve caps installed on every stem

Explanation

A cut or damage that reaches the cord compromises the tire's structure and can lead to a blowout under the load of a loaded bus. Such a tire must be replaced before the trip. Adequate tread, correct pressure, and installed valve caps are all acceptable conditions.

Question 7Vehicle Inspection

During the walk-around inspection, you check the wheels and rims. Which observation is a defect that must be corrected before dispatch?

  1. A cracked rim or a missing lug nut Correct answer.
  2. Even wear on the tire sidewall
  3. A clean rim with all nuts present
  4. Rust streaks around the lug nuts

Explanation

A cracked rim or missing lug nut can allow the wheel to separate from the vehicle, which is catastrophic for a loaded passenger bus. Either condition requires repair before the vehicle moves. Rust streaks alone are not a defect, but they warrant pulling the wheel for a closer look.

Question 8Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the entrance stepwell and handrails of a passenger bus. Which condition must be corrected before passengers board?

  1. The handrail is firmly mounted and free of sharp edges
  2. The step tread has a secure, slip-resistant surface
  3. The stepwell floor is soft and flexes under foot Correct answer.
  4. The stepwell light comes on when the door opens

Explanation

A soft or flexing stepwell floor indicates structural deterioration that could give way under a passenger's weight. The floor must be solid and secure before the bus is used. Slip-resistant treads, firm handrails, and working stepwell lights are all required and acceptable.

Question 9Vehicle Inspection

On a bus equipped with air brakes, you perform the pre-trip air pressure check. With the engine off and the system fully charged, the pressure should not drop more than a specified amount in one minute. What is the standard for a static leak test?

  1. No more than 3 psi in one minute with the engine off and brakes released Correct answer.
  2. Any drop is acceptable as long as the low-pressure warning stays off
  3. No more than 20 psi in one minute
  4. No more than 10 psi in one minute

Explanation

For a single-vehicle air brake system, the static leak test allows a loss of no more than 3 psi in one minute with the engine off and the service brakes released. A larger drop signals a leak that must be found and repaired. Excess loss can leave the bus without adequate braking reserve.

Question 10Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, you check the low air pressure warning. What must happen as system pressure falls?

  1. The warning activates before pressure drops below the safe operating range Correct answer.
  2. The warning activates only after the spring brakes have fully applied
  3. The warning activates only when the engine is running
  4. The warning stays silent unless the parking brake is set

Explanation

The low air pressure warning must activate before pressure falls into an unsafe range so the driver has time to stop safely. It is a warning device, so it must come on ahead of the point where braking performance is compromised. Waiting until the spring brakes apply is too late to be useful.

Question 11Vehicle Inspection

You check the parking brake on a passenger bus during the pre-trip inspection. Which test confirms it will hold the vehicle?

  1. Release the brake and confirm the bus stays still
  2. Set the brake and confirm the warning buzzer sounds
  3. Set the brake and try to move forward gently; the bus should not move Correct answer.
  4. Set the brake and confirm the bus rolls freely on a slope

Explanation

With the parking brake set, the vehicle should resist gentle forward movement, showing the brake can hold the loaded bus. Rolling freely means the brake is not holding and must be repaired. The test is about holding force, not about warning sounds.

Question 12Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection of a bus with hydraulic brakes, you check the brake fluid and pedal. Which finding indicates a problem?

  1. The brake warning light goes out after start-up
  2. The pedal feels firm and holds pressure when depressed
  3. The pedal slowly sinks to the floor while held down Correct answer.
  4. The fluid level is at the full mark in the reservoir

Explanation

A pedal that sinks while held indicates a leak or internal bypass in the hydraulic system, meaning braking force is being lost. This must be repaired before the bus carries passengers. A firm pedal, correct fluid level, and warning light that extinguishes are all normal.

Question 13Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the exterior lights on a passenger bus before a night trip. Which condition requires correction?

  1. The left turn signal does not flash at the rear Correct answer.
  2. The brake lights come on when the pedal is pressed
  3. The four-way flashers operate at all corners
  4. All clearance lights illuminate with the headlights on

Explanation

Every required lamp must function, and a rear turn signal that does not flash is a defect that must be repaired. Signals communicate the driver's intentions to other traffic and are required equipment. Working clearance lights, brake lights, and four-way flashers are all normal.

Question 14Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the mirrors on a passenger bus. What is the required condition?

  1. Mirrors are clean and adjusted to give the required fields of view Correct answer.
  2. Mirrors are checked only when the bus is loaded
  3. Only the interior mirror needs to be checked
  4. Mirrors are folded in to reduce the vehicle's width

Explanation

Mirrors must be clean, securely mounted, and adjusted so the driver can see the required areas around the bus, including the sides and the area in front of the vehicle. Folded mirrors eliminate those fields of view and are unsafe. All required mirrors are inspected before each trip.

Question 15Vehicle Inspection

You inspect the windshield and wipers of a passenger bus on a rainy morning. Which condition must be corrected before departure?

  1. The washer reservoir is filled to the proper level
  2. The wiper blades streak and leave large unwiped areas Correct answer.
  3. The windshield has a small stone chip outside the driver's view
  4. The defroster warms the windshield when switched on

Explanation

Wipers must clear the windshield well enough to maintain visibility in rain, so streaking blades that leave large unwiped areas are a defect. The driver needs a clear view of the roadway and mirrors at all times. Washer fluid, a chip outside the view, and a working defroster are acceptable.

Question 16Vehicle Inspection

While inspecting the engine compartment of a passenger bus, you check the belts and hoses. Which finding should be corrected?

  1. A belt with no cracks or fraying
  2. A hose that is soft, swollen, or leaking Correct answer.
  3. A hose clamp that is tight and secure
  4. A belt with proper tension and no glazing

Explanation

A soft, swollen, or leaking hose can burst and cause loss of coolant or other fluids, which can disable the bus or create a hazard. It must be replaced before the trip. Proper belt tension, tight clamps, and belts free of cracks are all acceptable.

Question 17Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting a bus that will carry passengers, and you check the exhaust system. Which condition is a defect?

  1. Exhaust is routed away from the passenger compartment
  2. There is a visible leak or a loose, hanging exhaust component Correct answer.
  3. The muffler is intact with no holes
  4. The exhaust pipe is securely mounted along its length

Explanation

Exhaust leaks or loose, hanging components can allow carbon monoxide to enter the passenger compartment and can cause parts to drag or fall. The system must be intact and securely mounted before carrying passengers. Proper routing, secure mounting, and an intact muffler are all acceptable.

Question 18Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the steering system of a passenger bus. Which finding requires the vehicle to be taken out of service?

  1. Steering wheel play within the manufacturer's limit
  2. Excessive steering wheel free play beyond the limit Correct answer.
  3. Tie rod ends that are tight with no looseness
  4. Power steering fluid at the proper level

Explanation

Excessive free play means the driver's input is not being transferred promptly to the wheels, which is a serious steering defect. The bus cannot be dispatched until it is repaired. Normal play, correct fluid level, and tight tie rod ends are all acceptable.

Question 19Vehicle Inspection

You are checking the suspension of a passenger bus during the pre-trip inspection. Which condition is a defect?

  1. Spring hangers that are tight and secure
  2. Air bags that inflate to the proper ride height
  3. A broken leaf spring or a leaking shock absorber Correct answer.
  4. Shock absorbers that are dry and firmly mounted

Explanation

A broken leaf spring can shift or fail under load, and a leaking shock absorber indicates loss of damping control, both of which affect stability and handling of a heavy passenger bus. Either defect must be repaired before service. Properly inflated air bags, secure hangers, and dry, mounted shocks are acceptable.

Question 20Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's emergency equipment. Which set of items must be on board and in working order?

  1. A flashlight and a clipboard
  2. A spare tire and a lug wrench only
  3. A fire extinguisher only
  4. A fire extinguisher, emergency triangles, and a first aid kit where required Correct answer.

Explanation

Passenger-carrying vehicles must carry required emergency equipment, including a charged fire extinguisher, warning triangles or reflective devices, and a first aid kit where the regulations require one. Each item must be present and serviceable before departure. A single item does not satisfy the full requirement.

Question 21Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting a bus after a driver reported that the ABS light stayed on during the previous trip. What is the correct pre-trip action?

  1. Dispatch the bus because ABS is only an aid and service brakes still work
  2. Note the light and continue if the service brakes feel normal
  3. Correct the ABS fault before the bus is placed in passenger service Correct answer.
  4. Ignore the light unless the bus will operate on wet roads

Explanation

An ABS warning light that stays on indicates a fault in the antilock system, which must be diagnosed and repaired before the vehicle is dispatched. ABS supports stability during hard braking, and a known fault cannot be carried into passenger service. A normal pedal feel does not clear the fault.

Question 22Vehicle Inspection

You are checking the passenger compartment of a charter bus before departure. You find that the aisle is blocked by a folded wheelchair and luggage. Why must this be corrected?

  1. The aisle only needs to be clear when passengers are seated
  2. Luggage in the aisle reduces fuel economy
  3. Folded equipment must be stored in the luggage bay by law
  4. Blocked aisles slow evacuation and violate the required clear path Correct answer.

Explanation

The aisle must remain clear so passengers can move to exits quickly in an emergency. Blocking it with luggage or equipment can trap riders and delay evacuation. Storage must be secured in designated areas, not in the aisle.

Question 23Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you notice the bus's rear emergency door opens only after the driver releases a separate latch in the front. What is the concern?

  1. Passengers must be able to open the emergency exit themselves without driver action Correct answer.
  2. This is normal because the driver controls all exits
  3. The rear door is not required to be an emergency exit
  4. The latch is acceptable if a decal explains its use

Explanation

Emergency exits must be operable by passengers from inside without relying on the driver, because the driver may be incapacitated in a crash. A latch that only the driver can release defeats the exit's purpose. A decal does not fix an exit that passengers cannot open on their own.

Question 24Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting a bus that was just washed. The stepwell and aisle floors are still wet. How should this affect your pre-trip decision?

  1. Treat wet floors as acceptable if handrails are present
  2. Dry the floors or verify slip resistance before passengers board Correct answer.
  3. Require passengers to remove their shoes before boarding
  4. Dispatch immediately because wet floors dry quickly in service

Explanation

Wet, slippery floors in the stepwell and aisle increase the risk of falls, especially for boarding passengers. The floors should be dried or confirmed slip-resistant before riders board. Handrails help but do not eliminate the slip hazard.

Question 25Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you find the bus's fire extinguisher gauge in the red but the extinguisher is still mounted and full by weight. What is the correct decision?

  1. Accept it because the extinguisher is mounted and feels full
  2. Use the extinguisher only if a fire starts, so no action is needed
  3. Replace or service the extinguisher before carrying passengers Correct answer.
  4. Accept it if the bus route is short

Explanation

A gauge in the red means the extinguisher may not discharge properly, so it cannot be relied on in an emergency. The unit must be replaced or serviced before the bus carries passengers. Mounting and apparent weight do not prove the extinguisher will work.

Question 26Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection of a passenger bus, you check the passenger seats and their mounting. Which condition requires the bus to be placed out of service before carrying passengers?

  1. A seat cushion shows light surface wear but the frame is solid
  2. A seat frame is cracked and the seat rocks freely on its pedestal Correct answer.
  3. A seat reclines normally through its full range of travel
  4. A seat fabric has a small clean stain near the armrest

Explanation

Seats must be securely fastened to the floor so they stay in place during a crash or sudden stop. A cracked frame or a seat that rocks on its pedestal means the mounting is compromised, and the defect must be repaired before the bus carries passengers. Cosmetic wear and stains do not affect occupant protection.

Question 27Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the stop arm and crossing gate on a school-style passenger bus. Which finding means the device must be repaired before the trip?

  1. The stop arm shows a small scratch on its painted surface
  2. The stop arm extends fully and the red lights flash
  3. The crossing gate swings out but the stop arm does not extend Correct answer.
  4. The crossing gate pivots smoothly on its hinge

Explanation

The stop arm and crossing gate must both deploy when activated, because they protect children crossing near the bus. If the arm fails to extend, the warning system is incomplete and the defect must be corrected. A scratch or a smoothly working gate is not a defect.

Question 28Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's horn. What is the required condition before departure?

  1. The horn works only from the passenger compartment
  2. The horn sounds only when the engine is running above idle
  3. The horn produces a weak, intermittent sound
  4. The horn sounds clearly and is audible to other drivers Correct answer.

Explanation

The horn is a required safety device and must operate reliably so you can warn others of danger. It should sound clearly and be loud enough to be heard by nearby traffic. A horn that only works in certain conditions or sounds weak is defective.

Question 29Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the bus's battery and battery compartment during the pre-trip. Which condition requires correction?

  1. The battery hold-down bracket is missing and the battery slides Correct answer.
  2. The battery cables are routed away from hot exhaust parts
  3. The battery terminals show a light coating of protective grease
  4. The battery is held firmly and the terminals are clean and tight

Explanation

Batteries must be secured so they cannot shift, tip, or contact metal that could cause a short or fire. A missing hold-down bracket with a sliding battery is a defect that must be fixed. Clean, tight terminals and properly routed cables are correct conditions.

Question 30Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's coolant level and the condition of the cooling system. Which finding must be corrected before departure?

  1. The radiator cap is tight and the overflow bottle is clean
  2. The coolant is at the full mark on the reservoir
  3. The coolant is below the minimum mark and a hose shows a bulge Correct answer.
  4. The coolant appears clean and free of rust

Explanation

Low coolant plus a bulging hose points to a cooling system that can fail and overheat the engine during the trip. A bulging hose is weakened and may burst under pressure, so it must be replaced and the coolant brought to the proper level. Normal level, clean coolant, and a tight cap are correct conditions.

Question 31Vehicle Inspection

You are checking the bus's oil pressure gauge during the pre-trip engine check. What should you confirm?

  1. The gauge rises only when the bus is moving
  2. The gauge stays at zero while the engine runs
  3. The gauge shows pressure within the normal range shortly after the engine starts Correct answer.
  4. The gauge needle rests below the low mark at all times

Explanation

Oil pressure must build to the normal range soon after the engine starts, showing that the lubrication system is working. A gauge that stays at zero or below the low mark warns of an oil system problem that can destroy the engine. The reading should not depend on vehicle movement.

Question 32Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's speedometer and odometer. Which condition must be corrected before departure?

  1. The instrument panel lights illuminate with the key on
  2. The speedometer does not move when the bus is driven Correct answer.
  3. The speedometer needle rests at zero before the trip
  4. The odometer records distance as the bus moves

Explanation

A working speedometer is required so you can monitor your speed and comply with posted limits. If the needle does not move when the bus is driven, the instrument is faulty and must be repaired. A needle at zero before moving and a functioning odometer are normal.

Question 33Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the bus's defroster and heater during the pre-trip on a cold morning. What must you confirm?

  1. The defroster blows warm air and clears the windshield Correct answer.
  2. The defroster blows only unheated outside air
  3. The heater works only on the highest fan setting
  4. The heater produces warm air only when the bus is moving

Explanation

The defroster must deliver warm air that clears the windshield so you can see the road in cold or damp weather. A system that only blows unheated air or works only at one fan setting or only while moving is not reliable. Confirm warm airflow and windshield clearing before departure.

Question 34Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's entry door and its safety features. Which finding requires correction?

  1. The door warning light works when the door is open
  2. The door opens and closes smoothly with the control
  3. The door control is stiff and the door does not fully close Correct answer.
  4. The door seal shows a small tear at the bottom corner

Explanation

The entry door must open and close fully and reliably so passengers can board and exit safely. A stiff control that prevents full closing is a defect that must be fixed. A minor seal tear and a working warning light are not reasons to hold the bus.

Question 35Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the bus's tires and find one dual tire that is flat and touching the ground. How should you handle this during the pre-trip?

  1. Drive the bus and check the tire again after a few miles
  2. Add air to the tire and continue the trip
  3. Remove the bus from service until the tire is repaired or replaced Correct answer.
  4. Reduce speed and complete the trip as planned

Explanation

A flat tire cannot support the load and can overheat, fail, or damage the wheel and nearby components. The bus must be taken out of service until the tire is repaired or replaced. Driving on it, even briefly or at reduced speed, risks a blowout with passengers aboard.

Question 36Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's emergency exit windows. Which condition must be corrected before departure?

  1. Each exit window opens freely and its release handle works
  2. One exit window release handle is broken and the window will not open Correct answer.
  3. Each exit window shows a small scratch on the glass
  4. Each exit window is labeled with an exit sign

Explanation

Emergency exit windows must open freely so passengers can escape in an emergency. A broken release handle that prevents the window from opening is a serious defect and must be repaired. Scratches on the glass and proper labeling do not affect the exit's function.

Question 37Vehicle Inspection

You are checking the bus's fuel system during the pre-trip. Which observation requires the bus to be placed out of service?

  1. The fuel lines are routed away from hot exhaust parts
  2. The fuel filler cap is present and seals properly
  3. A strong fuel odor is present and fuel drips under the tank Correct answer.
  4. The fuel gauge reads full and the cap is tight

Explanation

A strong fuel odor with visible dripping indicates an active leak, which is a serious fire hazard on a passenger bus. The vehicle must be taken out of service until the leak is repaired. A tight cap, sealed filler, and properly routed lines are correct conditions.

Question 38Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's mirrors and find the crossover mirror on the right side is cracked so the view is distorted. What is the correct action?

  1. Use the left mirror only for the trip
  2. Clean the mirror and continue
  3. Adjust the mirror angle and continue the trip
  4. Replace or repair the mirror before departure Correct answer.

Explanation

Crossover mirrors let you see areas around the front and side of the bus where students or pedestrians may be hidden. A cracked mirror with a distorted view defeats that purpose, so it must be replaced or repaired before departure. Adjusting, cleaning, or relying on one mirror does not restore the required view.

Question 39Vehicle Inspection

You are inspecting the bus's exhaust system and notice the tailpipe is cracked and a bracket is broken so the pipe hangs low. Why must this be corrected before carrying passengers?

  1. It reduces fuel economy slightly
  2. It can allow exhaust to enter the bus and can drag on the road Correct answer.
  3. It changes the color of the exhaust smoke
  4. It only affects the sound level of the engine

Explanation

A cracked, low-hanging exhaust can leak carbon monoxide into the passenger compartment and can strike the road or debris. Both create a hazard for passengers, so the system must be repaired before departure. Sound, fuel economy, and smoke color are not the safety concerns here.

Question 40Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's windshield washer and wipers. Which condition requires correction?

  1. The washer sprays fluid and the blades clear the glass
  2. The washer sprays fluid but the blades streak the glass Correct answer.
  3. The wiper arms move smoothly across the windshield
  4. The washer reservoir is full and the blades are intact

Explanation

Wipers must clear the glass so you can see during rain or road spray. Blades that streak leave the windshield obscured and must be replaced before departure. A full reservoir, intact blades, and smoothly moving arms are correct conditions.

Question 41Loading and Unloading Passengers

Before allowing passengers to board your bus at a terminal, which action should the driver take first?

  1. Signal passengers to board from the traffic side of the bus
  2. Open the door and let passengers board while you finish paperwork
  3. Wave passengers forward while the bus is still rolling to a stop
  4. Stand at the door and check that the bus is stopped with the parking brake set Correct answer.

Explanation

Passengers should board only after the bus is fully stopped, secured with the parking brake, and the driver is positioned to observe them entering. Boarding while the bus is still moving or while the driver is distracted creates a fall and run-over hazard.

Question 42Loading and Unloading Passengers

When passengers must cross a highway to reach your stopped bus, what is the recommended procedure?

  1. Sound the horn once and let them cross on their own
  2. Cross with them or hold traffic until they are safely across Correct answer.
  3. Instruct them to run across quickly between vehicles
  4. Flash the headlights so oncoming traffic stops

Explanation

When boarding or alighting passengers must cross a roadway, the driver should accompany them or control traffic so they cross safely. Simply honking or flashing lights does not guarantee other motorists will stop.

Question 43Loading and Unloading Passengers

You are standing at the front door counting passengers as they board. Why is an accurate count important?

  1. It confirms no passenger remains on the bus at the end of the run Correct answer.
  2. It is required only when chartering the bus to a private group
  3. It allows the driver to skip the post-trip walk-through
  4. It determines the fare the company charges the school district

Explanation

Counting passengers as they board and leave helps the driver verify that everyone has exited the bus, especially children and elderly riders who may fall asleep or be left behind. The count is a safety check, not a fare or charter requirement.

Question 44Loading and Unloading Passengers

While unloading passengers at a designated stop, where should you position yourself?

  1. In the driver's seat with the door open
  2. At the rear exit to help passengers down
  3. Near the door where you can see passengers as they leave Correct answer.
  4. Outside the bus inspecting the tires

Explanation

The driver should stand near the door so every passenger can be observed as they exit and move away from the bus. Remaining seated or leaving the doorway prevents you from spotting a passenger who stumbles or lingers near the wheels.

Question 45Loading and Unloading Passengers

A passenger using a wheelchair needs to board your bus, which is not equipped with a lift. What should you do?

  1. Ask other passengers to carry the wheelchair aboard
  2. Refuse the passenger and depart on schedule
  3. Lift the passenger and wheelchair into the bus yourself
  4. Advise that the bus cannot accommodate the passenger and arrange an accessible alternative Correct answer.

Explanation

A driver should not manually lift a passenger and wheelchair, as this risks injury to both parties. When the vehicle lacks a lift or ramp, the correct action is to explain the limitation and help arrange an accessible vehicle.

Question 46Loading and Unloading Passengers

What is the proper way to secure a wheelchair inside a bus equipped with tie-downs?

  1. Lock only the wheelchair brakes and leave it unrestrained
  2. Use the four-point tie-down system and a separate occupant restraint Correct answer.
  3. Secure the wheelchair with one strap across the seat
  4. Have the passenger hold the handrail during the trip

Explanation

Wheelchairs must be secured with a four-point tie-down system, and the occupant must use a separate seat belt or shoulder restraint. Brakes alone or a single strap will not keep the wheelchair from tipping or shifting during normal driving.

Question 47Loading and Unloading Passengers

Standing passengers are permitted to ride only when:

  1. All seats are occupied by adults
  2. The driver is running behind schedule
  3. The route is shorter than five miles
  4. The bus is designed for standees and capacity limits are observed Correct answer.

Explanation

Standees are allowed only on vehicles designed and approved to carry them, and only within the posted standing capacity. Route length, schedule pressure, or who occupies the seats does not create authority to exceed that design limit.

Question 48Loading and Unloading Passengers

You are approaching a stop where passengers are waiting on the sidewalk. When should you begin slowing down?

  1. Early enough to stop smoothly and squarely at the curb Correct answer.
  2. Abruptly once you reach the group
  3. After opening the door to signal arrival
  4. Only after passing the waiting group

Explanation

A professional driver slows early so the bus stops smoothly and close to the curb, reducing the gap passengers must bridge. Late or abrupt braking can throw standing passengers off balance and startles those waiting.

Question 49Loading and Unloading Passengers

How close to the curb should you stop the bus for passenger loading and unloading?

  1. Anywhere within the crosswalk
  2. In the traffic lane beside the curb
  3. About three feet from the curb
  4. As close as practical, generally within about 12 inches Correct answer.

Explanation

Stopping close to the curb, generally within about a foot, shortens the distance passengers must travel and keeps them out of the traffic lane. Stopping well away from the curb forces riders into the roadway.

Question 50Loading and Unloading Passengers

At the end of a trip, what should the driver do before leaving the bus?

  1. Turn off the lights and exit immediately
  2. Assume adult passengers always exit on their own
  3. Walk through the bus to check for sleeping or left-behind passengers Correct answer.
  4. Rely on the passenger count taken at the start of the trip

Explanation

A complete walk-through of the bus at the end of every trip is required to find passengers who may have fallen asleep or been left behind. The boarding count alone cannot confirm that everyone exited.