Michigan CDL School Bus Test flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Pre-trip inspection

A systematic check of the bus before driving, covering engine compartment, exterior, and passenger area to ensure safety and identify defects.

Brake check procedure

With engine running and air pressure built up, apply service brake and hold; listen for leaks and check warning light and buzzer.

Tire tread depth minimum

Front tires require at least 4/32 inch tread depth; rear tires require at least 2/32 inch. Inspect for cuts, bulges, and proper inflation.

Emergency exit check

Verify each exit opens freely from inside and outside, signs are illuminated, and buzzers sound when opened (if equipped).

Stop arm inspection

Check that the stop arm extends and retracts fully, and red flashing lights operate correctly.

Steering free play

Excessive play (more than 10 degrees) is a defect; check power steering fluid and belt.

Amber warning lights

Activate at least 100 feet (or as required by state law) before a stop to warn traffic of an impending stop.

Stop distance from curb

Stop parallel to and within 12 inches of the curb or edge of roadway to minimize the gap students must cross.

Red lights and stop arm

Activate red flashing lights and extend stop arm before opening the door for loading or unloading.

Student crossing rule

Students must cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus so the driver can see them; never allow crossing behind the bus.

Student count procedure

Count students as they exit and enter; ensure no student remains on the bus after the route is complete.

Before moving after unloading

Check mirrors, ensure all students are seated and accounted for, deactivate red lights, retract stop arm, and close door.

Loading waiting area

Have students wait in a safe location away from the roadway until the bus stops and the driver signals them to board.

Dropped item procedure

Never allow students to retrieve items from under the bus; driver must secure the area and use proper procedure.

Establish bus rules

At the beginning of the school year, clearly state and post rules visibly in the bus.

Nonverbal management

Use eye contact, proximity, and positive reinforcement to manage minor misbehavior before it escalates.

Address unsafe behavior

Immediately pull over safely and secure the bus when students engage in unsafe behaviors like standing or throwing objects.

Documenting discipline

Record repeated or serious disciplinary problems and report them to school administration per district policy.

Never leave student unattended

Do not put a student off the bus except at school or a designated safe location; never leave a student alone.

Special needs students

Follow the IEP or behavioral plan and consult with special education staff for individualized management strategies.

Emergency stop procedure

Stop in a safe location away from traffic, set parking brake, activate hazard lights, and assess the situation.

Evacuation decision

Evacuate only when necessary (fire, hazardous material, unsafe position); otherwise keep students on bus and call for help.

Evacuation meeting point

Designate a meeting point at least 100 feet from the bus and account for all students after evacuation.

Emergency equipment

Carry a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and emergency reflectors; know their locations and how to use them.

Crash response

Secure the scene, check for injuries, call 911, and notify school authorities; do not move injured persons unless necessary.

Emergency communication

Use radio or phone to report location, nature of emergency, number of students, and injuries to authorities.

Railroad crossing stop

Michigan law requires school buses to stop at all railroad crossings, even if no train is visible, unless exempted.

Stop distance from rails

Stop between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail; do not stop on the tracks or within the crossing area.

Before crossing tracks

Open service door and driver's window, turn off radios and fans, and listen for approaching trains.

Check for second train

Look both ways and ensure tracks are clear in both directions before proceeding across.

Crossing without shifting gears

Cross tracks without shifting gears; do not stop or change gears while on the tracks.

Stalled on tracks

Immediately evacuate students to at least 100 feet away and call 911 or the railroad emergency number.