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ME CDL School Bus study materials
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ME CDL School Bus practice questions

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Question 1Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

Before starting a pre-trip inspection of a school bus, what should the driver do first?

  1. Release the parking brake so the bus can roll slightly
  2. Turn on the four-way flashers and leave the engine running
  3. Start the engine and rev it to warm the fluids
  4. Set the parking brake and chock the wheels if needed Correct answer.

Explanation

A pre-trip inspection begins with securing the vehicle so it cannot move unexpectedly. The parking brake is set and, on a slope, wheels are chocked before the driver walks around or gets underneath the bus.

Question 2Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During a pre-trip inspection, the slack adjuster push rod on an air-brake bus should move no more than about how far when the brake is applied?

  1. 3 inches
  2. 6 inches
  3. 2 inches Correct answer.
  4. 1 inch

Explanation

With the brakes released and then applied, a properly adjusted push rod moves about 2 inches or less on a standard chamber. Excessive travel signals the brakes are out of adjustment and need service.

Question 3Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When checking the engine compartment during a pre-trip inspection, which item should the driver verify?

  1. That the oil filter is brand new
  2. That the alternator belt is removed
  3. That the coolant level is within the full range on the reservoir Correct answer.
  4. That the battery terminals are painted

Explanation

Fluid levels, including coolant, oil, and power-steering fluid, are checked against their marks during the engine compartment walk-around. Low coolant can lead to overheating on the route.

Question 4Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A school bus driver notices the low-air warning buzzer does not sound when air pressure drops. What is the correct action?

  1. Continue the route and note it at the end of the day
  2. Ignore it because the gauge still shows pressure
  3. Tag the bus out of service until the warning system is repaired Correct answer.
  4. Pump the brakes to build pressure and proceed

Explanation

The low-air warning is a required safety device that alerts the driver before braking power is lost. If it fails to operate, the bus must be placed out of service until repaired.

Question 5Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

How should a driver test the service brakes during a pre-trip inspection?

  1. Hold the brake pedal down for ten seconds with the engine off
  2. Apply the brakes only while the bus is parked
  3. Press the pedal once while the bus is at highway speed
  4. Build normal pressure, then apply steady pressure while moving slowly forward Correct answer.

Explanation

The service brake check is done at low speed in a safe area: build normal air pressure, move forward slowly, and apply steady braking to confirm the bus stops smoothly without pulling.

Question 6Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When performing the air-brake leak test, the driver should watch the gauge with the engine off and the brakes released for how long?

  1. Five minutes
  2. One minute Correct answer.
  3. Thirty seconds
  4. Ten minutes

Explanation

For the static leak test, the driver charges the system, shuts off the engine, releases the brakes, and observes the gauge for one minute. Air loss beyond the allowed limit means the bus should not be driven.

Question 7Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the purpose of the pre-trip inspection of the bus's mirrors?

  1. To confirm each mirror is clean, secure, and adjusted for the driver's view Correct answer.
  2. To verify the mirrors are folded in for travel
  3. To make sure the mirrors are removed before loading students
  4. To check that the mirror glass is tinted

Explanation

Mirrors must be clean, firmly mounted, and adjusted so the driver can see the sides and rear of the bus, including the danger zones around the wheels. Poor adjustment hides students near the bus.

Question 8Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver finds a cracked lens on a red school bus warning light. What is the appropriate response?

  1. Use the light only during daylight hours
  2. Replace or repair the light before operating the bus Correct answer.
  3. Cover the light with tape and finish the route
  4. Record it and continue if the bulb still lights

Explanation

Warning lights are critical for student safety during loading and unloading. A cracked lens or inoperative warning light means the bus should not be used until it is repaired.

Question 9Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

How much air pressure should a bus's air-brake system build to before the driver begins the brake tests?

  1. About 50 psi
  2. About 75 psi
  3. At least 150 psi
  4. At least 100 psi Correct answer.

Explanation

The system should be charged to its normal operating range, typically around 100 psi or more, before testing. Tests run at low pressure give misleading results.

Question 10Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When checking tires during a pre-trip inspection, which condition requires the bus to be taken out of service?

  1. A valve cap that is snug
  2. A cut deep enough to expose cord Correct answer.
  3. A small stone in the tread groove
  4. A tread depth of 6/32 inch on a drive tire

Explanation

Any cut or damage that exposes the cord means the tire is structurally compromised and unsafe. Tires must be removed from service when cord or body fabric is visible.

Question 11Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What should the driver check about the wheels and rims during the walk-around inspection?

  1. That lug nuts are present, tight, and show no rust streaks Correct answer.
  2. That the lug nuts are loose enough to remove by hand
  3. That the wheels are chocked on level ground
  4. That the rims are painted the same color

Explanation

Lug nuts must be present and tight, and rust streaks around nuts or studs can indicate looseness. Missing or loose fasteners can lead to wheel loss.

Question 12Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When checking the steering system during a pre-trip inspection, the driver should look for which condition?

  1. Power-steering fluid that is slightly below the hot mark when cold
  2. A steering wheel that turns freely with the engine off
  3. Loose or missing cotter keys and excessive play Correct answer.
  4. Steering wheel free play of more than 10 degrees

Explanation

The steering linkage should be secure with cotter keys in place and free play within limits. Loose components or excessive play indicate the steering needs repair before driving.

Question 13Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What does a pre-trip inspection of the suspension include checking?

  1. That the axle is bent slightly for alignment
  2. That the air bags are fully deflated
  3. That the shock absorbers are removed
  4. That springs, shackles, and U-bolts are intact and secure Correct answer.

Explanation

Springs, shackles, U-bolts, and air bags must be intact and secure with no cracks or missing parts. A broken suspension component can cause loss of control.

Question 14Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the emergency exits. What must be confirmed?

  1. That the exit handles are removed
  2. That the exits open freely and the warning buzzer sounds Correct answer.
  3. That the exits are painted red on the inside only
  4. That the exits are locked from the outside

Explanation

Emergency exits must open freely from the inside and trigger the warning device when opened. This ensures students can escape and the driver is alerted if an exit is opened.

Question 15Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What should the driver verify about the fire extinguisher during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. That it has been used at least once
  2. That it is mounted securely, charged, and within its inspection date Correct answer.
  3. That it is kept in the engine compartment
  4. That it is stored loose in a storage compartment

Explanation

A fire extinguisher must be securely mounted, fully charged, and current on its inspection tag. A loose or discharged extinguisher may not be usable in an emergency.

Question 16Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

Before moving a school bus, the driver should confirm the seat belt is fastened and the driver's seat is adjusted so that the driver can do what?

  1. Sit as low as possible
  2. Reach all controls comfortably and see all mirrors Correct answer.
  3. Rest both arms on the window sill
  4. Reach the passenger seats behind the driver

Explanation

The seat must be positioned so the driver can reach the pedals and controls and use the mirrors without strain. Proper positioning supports full control of the bus.

Question 17Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A driver is preparing to pull away from a curb in a school bus. What is the correct sequence?

  1. Check mirrors, release the brake, then signal
  2. Signal, accelerate quickly, then check mirrors
  3. Honk, release the brake, then check mirrors
  4. Check mirrors and blind spots, signal, then move out slowly Correct answer.

Explanation

The driver checks mirrors and blind spots for traffic and students, signals intent, and then moves out gradually. This order prevents pulling into an unseen vehicle or pedestrian.

Question 18Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When backing a school bus, what is the safest practice?

  1. Back slowly using mirrors and a spotter when available Correct answer.
  2. Rely on the backup camera alone
  3. Back with the door open to see the rear tire
  4. Back quickly to reduce time in the blind spot

Explanation

Backing should be done only when necessary, slowly, using mirrors and a spotter if one is available. The driver must be sure the path is clear before moving.

Question 19Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A school bus must make a right turn at an intersection. What control technique helps prevent the rear wheels from striking the curb?

  1. Turn sharply from the right lane without checking mirrors
  2. Accelerate through the turn to shorten the turn radius
  3. Turn from the left lane across traffic
  4. Swing wide to the left before turning and watch the right mirror Correct answer.

Explanation

A bus has a large off-tracking area, so the driver swings slightly left before the turn and watches the right mirror to keep the rear wheels off the curb. The turn is completed slowly.

Question 20Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the proper way to stop a school bus at a railroad crossing?

  1. Stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail Correct answer.
  2. Stop only if a train is visible
  3. Stop directly on the tracks to check for trains
  4. Slow to 10 mph without stopping

Explanation

School buses must stop at railroad crossings between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail, open the door, and listen and look before proceeding. This distance keeps the bus clear of the tracks while allowing a view.

Question 21Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When driving a school bus on a curve, the driver should do what?

  1. Maintain highway speed to keep momentum
  2. Slow before the curve and accelerate gently through it Correct answer.
  3. Accelerate before the curve to push through
  4. Brake hard in the middle of the curve

Explanation

Speed should be reduced before entering the curve, then gentle acceleration is applied through it. Braking hard in a curve can cause loss of control or a skid.

Question 22Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the correct use of the school bus's eight-way warning lights?

  1. Use them as hazard lights during rain
  2. Turn them on only after students are seated
  3. Use them while driving at highway speed
  4. Activate them before stopping to load or unload students Correct answer.

Explanation

The eight-way lights warn traffic that the bus is stopping to load or unload students. They are activated in advance of the stop and remain on until the loading or unloading is complete.

Question 23Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When loading students at a bus stop, when should the driver open the door?

  1. After the bus has come to a complete stop and the stop arm is deployed Correct answer.
  2. As soon as the students are visible
  3. Before activating the warning lights
  4. While the bus is still rolling slowly

Explanation

The door is opened only after the bus is fully stopped and the stop arm and warning lights are operating. This protects students crossing or approaching the bus.

Question 24Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A driver must cross a set of railroad tracks after stopping. What should the driver do before moving forward?

  1. Shift to a higher gear and accelerate hard
  2. Sound the horn continuously while crossing
  3. Close all windows and turn up the radio
  4. Open the door, turn off noisy devices, and listen and look both ways Correct answer.

Explanation

At a crossing the driver opens the door or window, silences distractions, and looks and listens both ways before proceeding. This helps detect an approaching train that may not be visible.

Question 25Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the proper hand position and technique for holding the steering wheel of a school bus?

  1. One hand at the top of the wheel at all times
  2. Hands off the wheel while using the mirror
  3. Palming the wheel with one hand for quick turns
  4. Both hands on the wheel, using a push-pull method for turns Correct answer.

Explanation

Both hands should remain on the wheel, using a push-pull technique that keeps control during turns. This method avoids crossing the arms and allows recovery from a skid.

Question 26Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During the pre-trip inspection, how should the driver test the service brakes on a school bus?

  1. Hold the brake pedal down for ten seconds with the engine running and watch the tachometer
  2. Pump the brake pedal several times while parked and listen for a hissing sound
  3. Apply the parking brake only and check that the bus stays still on a level surface
  4. Release the parking brake, move forward slowly, and apply the brakes firmly to check for pulling or delay Correct answer.

Explanation

The service-brake check is a moving test: with the parking brake released and the bus rolling slowly forward, a firm application should stop the bus squarely without pulling to one side or lagging. This confirms the foundation brakes actually work before the bus carries passengers.

Question 27Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

What is the correct way to check the engine oil level during the pre-trip inspection of a school bus?

  1. After a short drive, read the dipstick immediately while the oil is still circulating
  2. With the engine off and the bus level, pull the dipstick, wipe it, reinsert it fully, and read the level Correct answer.
  3. With the engine off, read the dipstick while it is only partly inserted
  4. With the engine idling and the bus on a slope, read the dipstick without wiping it

Explanation

Oil level must be read on a level surface with the engine off so oil has drained back to the pan. Wiping and fully reinserting the dipstick gives a clean, accurate reading between the marks.

Question 28Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During the pre-trip inspection, what should the driver confirm about the bus's coolant?

  1. That the coolant is completely cold before the engine is started at all
  2. That the radiator cap is removed so pressure cannot build up
  3. That the overflow bottle is empty so expansion has room
  4. That the coolant level is at the proper mark and there are no visible leaks under the engine Correct answer.

Explanation

The coolant should be at the specified level in the reservoir or radiator, and the driver should look for drips or puddles that indicate a leak. Low coolant or a visible leak can lead to overheating on the route.

Question 29Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During the pre-trip inspection, how should the driver check the bus's horn?

  1. Sound the horn with the key on to confirm it works and is loud enough to be heard Correct answer.
  2. Tap the horn button lightly and rely on the click of the relay
  3. Ask a passenger to listen for the horn while the driver stays inside
  4. Test the horn only while the bus is moving in traffic

Explanation

The horn is a required safety device and must be tested with electrical power on to confirm it produces a clear, audible warning. A weak or silent horn must be reported and corrected before the trip.

Question 30Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A driver is checking the bus's lighting during the walk-around and cannot see the rear lights from the driver's seat. What is the best procedure?

  1. Skip the rear lights and check them at the first stop
  2. Assume the rear lights work because the front lights come on
  3. Have a student stand behind the bus and describe the lights
  4. Turn on each light group and walk to the rear to observe the lights directly Correct answer.

Explanation

Each light circuit must be observed from a position where the lamps are visible, so the driver walks to the rear and confirms brake, tail, and turn signals. Assuming or deferring the check leaves a required safety system unverified.

Question 31Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver finds the bus's windshield wipers leave large streaks and one blade is torn. What is the correct action?

  1. Run the wipers faster to clear the streaks
  2. Report the defect and have the blade replaced before the bus is used Correct answer.
  3. Note the defect and change the blade at the end of the week
  4. Use the defroster only and proceed on the route

Explanation

Torn or streaking wiper blades impair visibility in rain and are a defect that must be corrected before the bus is placed in service. The driver reports it and does not operate the bus until it is fixed.

Question 32Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During the pre-trip inspection, what should the driver check about the bus's exhaust system?

  1. That the exhaust makes a loud rumble at idle
  2. That the exhaust pipe is painted and free of rust
  3. That the exhaust outlet points toward the door
  4. That the exhaust is secure, not leaking, and not routed where fumes can enter the cabin Correct answer.

Explanation

The exhaust must be intact and properly supported, with no leaks or openings that let carbon monoxide into the passenger area. Fumes entering the bus are a serious hazard, so the system is checked for security and leakage.

Question 33Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A driver is about to move a school bus that has been parked facing downhill on a paved lot. What is the proper procedure before releasing the parking brake?

  1. Leave the engine off and coast to the bottom of the lot
  2. Start the engine, build air pressure, check the gauges, and keep the brake applied until ready to move Correct answer.
  3. Release the parking brake first, then start the engine and build pressure
  4. Roll forward slightly to test the brakes before starting the engine

Explanation

The engine must be running with air pressure built to normal before the bus is moved, and the brakes stay applied until the driver is ready. Coasting or releasing the brake first removes control on a slope.

Question 34Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When starting from a stop in a school bus with an automatic transmission, what technique gives the smoothest, safest start?

  1. Hold the brake and throttle at the same time, then release the brake
  2. Apply full throttle immediately to get up to speed quickly
  3. Shift to neutral, roll a short distance, then shift to drive
  4. Release the brake, apply light steady throttle, and check mirrors and the left blind area before moving Correct answer.

Explanation

A smooth start uses light, steady acceleration after the brake is released, with a final check of mirrors and the blind area before the bus moves. Sudden full throttle is rough and unsafe with passengers aboard.

Question 35Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

While driving a school bus, the driver needs to slow for a stop. What is the correct braking technique?

  1. Shift to neutral and let the bus coast down
  2. Apply steady, progressive pressure early and ease off as the bus comes to a stop Correct answer.
  3. Pump the brake pedal rapidly the whole way
  4. Wait until close to the stop, then brake hard

Explanation

Smooth progressive braking begun early gives following traffic time to react and keeps passengers from being thrown forward. Hard late braking or coasting in neutral reduces control and comfort.

Question 36Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A school bus is traveling on a road when the driver sees a low-hanging tree branch over the lane ahead. What is the safest action?

  1. Steer around the branch without checking the mirrors
  2. Sound the horn and continue at the same speed
  3. Slow down and stop if needed, checking mirrors and clearance before proceeding Correct answer.
  4. Speed up to pass under the branch before it drops lower

Explanation

The driver must judge overhead clearance and slow or stop rather than risk striking the branch, which could damage the roof or injure passengers. Mirrors and surrounding traffic are checked before any change in path.

Question 37Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

When a school bus must be driven in reverse and no spotter is available, what should the driver do?

  1. Rely on the backup alarm to warn anyone behind
  2. Back quickly to spend less time in reverse
  3. Back slowly while watching only the left mirror
  4. Stop and get out to check behind the bus, or reposition so backing is not required Correct answer.

Explanation

Backing a bus without a spotter is high risk because of large blind areas. The driver should walk back to check the area or find a way to avoid backing; if backing is unavoidable, the driver proceeds only after confirming the area is clear.

Question 38Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A school bus driver approaches a bridge marked with a weight limit lower than the loaded bus weight. What is the correct action?

  1. Cross and stop midway to check for movement
  2. Cross only if no other traffic is on the bridge
  3. Cross slowly to reduce the load on the bridge
  4. Do not cross; find an alternate route that can carry the loaded weight Correct answer.

Explanation

Posted weight limits are maximums for the structure, and a bus at or above the limit must not cross. The driver takes an alternate route rather than testing the bridge.

Question 39Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

A driver is inspecting the bus and finds the parking brake will not hold the bus on a slight incline. What is the correct response?

  1. Use wheel chocks instead of the parking brake and run the route
  2. Set the brake harder and continue if it holds on level ground
  3. Tag the bus out of service and report the defect before any route is run Correct answer.
  4. Have a passenger hold the brake while the driver checks the outside

Explanation

A parking brake that cannot hold the bus is a critical defect, because the bus may roll when parked or during loading. The bus is placed out of service until the brake is repaired.

Question 40Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control

During a pre-trip inspection, the driver notices the bus pulls to the right when the service brakes are applied during the moving test. What does this most likely indicate?

  1. That the steering wheel needs to be turned slightly left while braking
  2. A brake defect such as a stuck or weak brake on one side that must be repaired before use Correct answer.
  3. Normal operation that requires no attention
  4. That the tires are simply overinflated

Explanation

Pulling to one side under braking points to unequal braking force, such as a stuck caliper or contaminated lining on one side. This is a defect that must be corrected before the bus carries students.

Question 41Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

A school bus is approaching a railroad crossing with no gates or flashing lights. What must the driver do before crossing the tracks?

  1. Stop, open the service door, and listen for an approaching train Correct answer.
  2. Slow to 25 mph and proceed if no train is visible
  3. Sound the horn continuously while crossing
  4. Continue at normal speed if the crossing has a crossbuck sign

Explanation

At a passive crossing without gates or lights, the driver must stop, open the door to improve hearing, and look and listen for trains before proceeding. This lets the driver detect an approaching train that might be masked by noise or terrain.

Question 42Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

When should a school bus driver activate the amber warning lights before a stop?

  1. Only after students have stepped off the bus
  2. After the bus has come to a complete stop
  3. Just as the red lights are turned on
  4. At least 100 feet before the stop, where allowed by law Correct answer.

Explanation

Amber warning lights alert traffic that the bus is preparing to stop; they are activated well in advance, typically at least 100 feet before the stop where law allows. Red lights and the stop arm then follow once the bus is stopped.

Question 43Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

A driver is backing a school bus in a loading zone. What is the safest practice?

  1. Sound the horn and back quickly to clear the area
  2. Rely on the mirrors and back slowly without assistance
  3. Open the door and watch the left mirror only
  4. Use a spotter and back only when absolutely necessary Correct answer.

Explanation

Backing a bus is high risk because of large blind spots; it should be avoided whenever possible. When backing is unavoidable, a spotter outside the bus should guide the maneuver.

Question 44Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

How far before a student stop should a driver begin decelerating?

  1. About 50 feet out
  2. About 500 feet out Correct answer.
  3. About 10 feet out
  4. About 250 feet out

Explanation

Drivers should begin slowing roughly 500 feet before a stop so the bus is at a safe, controlled speed when it arrives. Gradual deceleration reduces the risk of rear-end collisions and gives following traffic time to react.

Question 45Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

A school bus driver must stop for a student who is crossing the road. When should the driver release the students to cross?

  1. Once the stop arm is fully extended
  2. After signaling the students to cross and confirming traffic has stopped Correct answer.
  3. As soon as the red lights are activated
  4. When the students reach the edge of the bus

Explanation

The driver must first confirm that traffic in both directions has stopped, then give the students a clear hand signal to cross. Students should never be released before the driver verifies it is safe.

Question 46Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

What does a bus driver do when a student drops an item near the bus after exiting?

  1. Wave the student back to pick it up quickly
  2. Get out and pick it up for the student
  3. Signal the student to retrieve it while the bus waits
  4. Tell the student to leave it and never return to the bus Correct answer.

Explanation

A student who returns to the bus is at serious risk because the driver may lose sight of them near the wheels. The safe rule is that dropped items are left behind and the student moves away from the bus.

Question 47Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

What is the primary purpose of the school bus stop arm?

  1. To mark the bus's parking space
  2. To indicate the bus is out of service
  3. To signal that the bus is about to move
  4. To warn traffic that students are boarding or exiting Correct answer.

Explanation

The stop arm extends with the red lights to warn drivers that students are loading or unloading and that traffic must stop. It is a visible cue reinforcing the red flashing lights.

Question 48Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

Before moving a school bus after unloading students, what should the driver confirm?

  1. That the red lights remain on
  2. That all students are clear of the bus and visible Correct answer.
  3. That the door is still open
  4. That the stop arm is extended

Explanation

The driver must account for every student and confirm they are clear of the bus before moving. Red lights and the stop arm are turned off, and the door is closed, once unloading is complete.

Question 49Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

A school bus is driving on a wet road. How should the driver adjust following distance?

  1. Follow more closely to prevent others from cutting in
  2. Reduce speed and increase following distance Correct answer.
  3. Maintain speed but use the horn more often
  4. Keep the same distance as on dry pavement

Explanation

Wet roads reduce traction and lengthen stopping distance, so the driver should slow down and leave more space ahead. Extra following distance gives time to react on a slippery surface.

Question 50Safe Driving and Hazard Awareness

A school bus driver is caught in fog. Which action best improves safety?

  1. Turn on hazard lights and maintain speed
  2. Follow the vehicle ahead closely for guidance
  3. Use high-beam headlights for maximum visibility
  4. Reduce speed and use low-beam headlights Correct answer.

Explanation

Low beams reduce glare from fog and help the driver see and be seen; reducing speed gives more time to react to limited visibility. High beams reflect off fog and worsen visibility.