Michigan CDL School Bus Test study materials
Michigan CDL School Bus Test study resources

Michigan CDL School Bus Test practice questions

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Question 1Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection of a Michigan school bus, the driver should check the service door by doing which of the following?

  1. Checking only that the handle moves freely without opening the door
  2. Leaving it open while testing the brakes so the air pressure drops faster
  3. Confirming the door glass is clean and skipping the latch check
  4. Opening and closing it fully and confirming the warning buzzer or light activates when it is open Correct answer.

Explanation

The service door is a required inspection item because it is the primary passenger exit control. The driver must operate it through its full range, confirm the latch holds, and verify the door-open warning device alerts the driver.

Question 2Vehicle Inspection

When inspecting the emergency exit windows on a school bus, the driver must confirm which of the following?

  1. That the glass is tinted to the maximum legal level
  2. That the windows are locked shut to prevent vandalism
  3. That the exit handles are painted the same color as the bus
  4. That each exit opens, the buzzer sounds, and the latch releases properly Correct answer.

Explanation

Emergency exits must open freely and trigger the warning buzzer so the driver knows one has been opened. The inspection confirms both the release mechanism and the audible alert.

Question 3Vehicle Inspection

A driver is checking the stop arm on a Michigan school bus. Which observation indicates the stop arm is working correctly?

  1. The arm extends only halfway and the lights stay steady
  2. The arm stays retracted and cannot be moved by hand
  3. The arm extends but the warning buzzer stays silent
  4. The arm extends fully and the red lights flash when the switch is activated Correct answer.

Explanation

The stop arm must extend completely and the red warning lights must flash whenever the arm is deployed. Partial extension or steady lights indicates a defect that must be corrected before operation.

Question 4Vehicle Inspection

While inspecting the tires on a school bus, the driver finds a tire with a deep cut exposing the cord. What is the correct action?

  1. Note it and continue the route if pressure holds
  2. Reduce speed and monitor the tire during the trip
  3. Cover the cut with tape and recheck later
  4. Replace the tire before the bus is used Correct answer.

Explanation

A cut that exposes cord means the tire is structurally damaged and cannot be safely operated. The tire must be replaced before the bus carries passengers.

Question 5Vehicle Inspection

What should the driver check regarding the bus's mirrors during a pre-trip inspection?

  1. That they are folded in to reduce wind resistance
  2. That the mirror glass is tinted dark for glare
  3. That only the interior mirror is present
  4. That they are adjusted so the driver can see the danger zones around the bus Correct answer.

Explanation

Mirrors must be properly mounted, clean, and adjusted so the driver can see the danger zones around the bus. Correct adjustment supports safe loading, unloading, and lane changes.

Question 6Vehicle Inspection

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

  1. Sound it briefly and confirm it produces a clear, audible warning Correct answer.
  2. Test it only if passengers are aboard
  3. Skip it because horns are not inspected on school buses
  4. Press it only while the engine is off

Explanation

The horn is a required safety device and must be tested to confirm it produces a clear audible warning. A weak or silent horn is a defect that must be corrected.

Question 7Vehicle Inspection

When checking the emergency equipment on a school bus, the driver should confirm the presence and condition of which items?

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

Explanation

Required emergency equipment includes a charged fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and warning triangles. The driver confirms each is present, secured, and in usable condition.

Question 8Vehicle Inspection

What is the purpose of the pre-trip inspection on a school bus?

  1. To check passenger seating assignments
  2. To document fuel usage for the district
  3. To record the day's weather conditions
  4. To confirm the bus is safe to carry passengers before the route begins Correct answer.

Explanation

The pre-trip inspection is a systematic check that identifies defects before the bus carries passengers. Finding and correcting problems before departure is the core safety purpose.

Question 9Vehicle Inspection

A driver finds the bus's left rear turn signal does not flash during the pre-trip inspection. What is the appropriate response?

  1. Continue the route and report it at the end of the day
  2. Use hand signals in place of the turn signal
  3. Report the defect and keep the bus out of service until repaired Correct answer.
  4. Operate the bus only on routes without left turns

Explanation

A nonfunctioning turn signal is a safety defect that must be repaired before the bus is used. The driver reports it and does not operate the bus until it is corrected.

Question 10Vehicle Inspection

While inspecting the air brake system on a school bus, the driver should perform which check?

  1. Static leak test to confirm pressure does not drop excessively Correct answer.
  2. A visual check of the brake pedal color
  3. A check that the air tank is empty
  4. A check that the parking brake is disengaged

Explanation

Air brake inspection includes a static leak test to confirm the system holds pressure without excessive loss. A steady or rapid pressure drop signals a leak that must be repaired.

Question 11Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's steering. Which observation indicates a problem?

  1. The steering wheel turns smoothly with normal play
  2. The power steering pump operates quietly
  3. The steering wheel has excessive free play before the wheels respond Correct answer.
  4. The steering returns to center after a turn

Explanation

Excessive free play in the steering wheel means the steering linkage may be worn or loose. This reduces control and is a defect requiring repair before operation.

Question 12Vehicle Inspection

A driver is inspecting the bus's exhaust system. What should the driver look for?

  1. Loose or damaged hangers and signs of leaks Correct answer.
  2. A bright chrome finish on the tailpipe
  3. A tailpipe that extends past the rear bumper
  4. A muffler that is louder than normal

Explanation

Exhaust inspection focuses on secure mounting and leaks, since a loose or leaking exhaust can allow carbon monoxide into the passenger area. Cosmetic features are not the concern.

Question 13Vehicle Inspection

When checking the bus's battery and electrical system during the pre-trip inspection, the driver should confirm which of the following?

  1. That the battery is clean and the hold-down is secure Correct answer.
  2. That the battery is removed before each trip
  3. That the terminals are loose for easy removal
  4. That the battery is fully discharged

Explanation

The battery must be clean, securely mounted, and free of corrosion so it does not shift or fail. Loose hold-downs or corroded terminals can cause electrical failures.

Question 14Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's emergency exit door at the rear. What should the driver confirm?

  1. That it opens easily from the inside and the buzzer sounds Correct answer.
  2. That it is painted the same color as the bus interior
  3. That it opens only with a key
  4. That it is chained shut to prevent use

Explanation

The rear emergency door must open easily from the inside and trigger the warning buzzer. This confirms passengers can escape in an emergency and the driver is alerted if it is opened.

Question 15Vehicle Inspection

A driver notices the bus's windshield washer does not spray fluid. How should this be handled before the route?

  1. Ignore it because washers are optional on school buses
  2. Operate only on clear days
  3. Refill the reservoir and confirm the spray works Correct answer.
  4. Use a water bottle to clean the windshield during the trip

Explanation

A working windshield washer is part of required visibility equipment, especially in Michigan weather. The driver should refill and verify the spray before operating the bus.

Question 16Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver should check the bus's seat belts and passenger seats for which condition?

  1. That seats are covered with loose blankets
  2. That belts are tied back to prevent use
  3. That seats are securely mounted and belts are functional Correct answer.
  4. That seats are removed to increase capacity

Explanation

Seats must be securely fastened to the floor and belts must be present and functional so passengers are protected. Loose seats or missing belts are defects.

Question 17Vehicle Inspection

A driver is checking the bus's stop lights and tail lights. Which result indicates a defect?

  1. The tail lights come on with the headlights
  2. The stop lights stay on continuously Correct answer.
  3. The stop lights illuminate when the brake pedal is pressed
  4. The turn signals flash when activated

Explanation

Stop lights that stay on continuously indicate a faulty switch or wiring and can confuse following drivers. They should illuminate only when the brake pedal is applied.

Question 18Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's coolant and oil levels. Why is this important?

  1. To set the passenger capacity
  2. To determine the route's fuel cost
  3. To confirm the engine will not overheat or run low on lubrication during the route Correct answer.
  4. To adjust the bus's top speed

Explanation

Correct fluid levels prevent overheating and engine damage that could strand the bus with passengers aboard. Checking them before departure is a basic preventive step.

Question 19Vehicle Inspection

A driver inspecting a school bus finds the emergency exit warning buzzer does not sound when the rear door is opened. What does this indicate?

  1. A condition that only matters on field trips
  2. A normal condition because buzzers are optional
  3. A defect that must be repaired before operation Correct answer.
  4. A condition corrected by turning up the radio

Explanation

The buzzer must sound whenever an emergency exit is opened so the driver is alerted. A silent buzzer is a defect that must be corrected before the bus carries passengers.

Question 20Vehicle Inspection

A driver is completing a pre-trip inspection and must document a defect. What is the correct practice?

  1. Repair the defect without documentation
  2. Record the defect and report it so it is repaired before use Correct answer.
  3. Report defects only if a supervisor asks
  4. Ignore minor defects to save time

Explanation

Defects must be recorded and reported so the bus is repaired before it carries passengers. Documentation creates accountability and ensures the defect is not overlooked.

Question 21Vehicle Inspection

While inspecting the bus's air brake system, the driver notices the low-air warning does not activate as pressure falls. What is the significance?

  1. It is normal because the warning is only for parking
  2. It is corrected by pumping the brake pedal rapidly
  3. It is a safety defect because the driver may not be warned of low pressure Correct answer.
  4. It is a minor issue that can wait until the next service

Explanation

The low-air warning alerts the driver before brake pressure drops to an unsafe level. If it fails to activate, the driver could lose braking without warning, so it must be repaired.

Question 22Vehicle Inspection

A driver finds the bus's stop arm extends but the red warning lights do not flash. How should this be interpreted?

  1. The lights are optional when the arm is extended
  2. The lights will begin flashing once the bus is moving
  3. The stop arm system has a defect and the bus should not be used until repaired Correct answer.
  4. The bus may operate if the driver uses hand signals

Explanation

The stop arm and flashing red lights work together to warn traffic during loading and unloading. If the lights do not flash when the arm extends, the system is defective and must be repaired.

Question 23Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's brake pedal and finds it feels spongy and travels close to the floor. What is the correct conclusion?

  1. There may be a hydraulic or air problem requiring repair before use Correct answer.
  2. The condition only matters on steep grades
  3. The brakes are normal and the pedal is designed to travel that far
  4. The pedal is fine if the bus stops eventually

Explanation

A spongy pedal or excessive travel suggests air in the hydraulic system or a pressure problem in air brakes. Either condition reduces braking effectiveness and requires repair before operation.

Question 24Vehicle Inspection

A driver is inspecting the bus's tires and finds one tire with tread depth below the legal minimum. What is the correct action?

  1. Inflate the tire to the maximum and continue
  2. Reduce speed and monitor the tire
  3. Replace the tire before the bus is used Correct answer.
  4. Rotate the tire to the rear and continue

Explanation

Tires below the legal tread depth cannot provide adequate traction, especially in wet or snowy conditions. The tire must be replaced before the bus carries passengers.

Question 25Vehicle Inspection

A driver inspecting a school bus finds the emergency exit door opens only with a key from the inside. What is the correct assessment?

  1. This is a defect because emergency exits must open without a key from the inside Correct answer.
  2. This is acceptable only on buses without passengers
  3. This is acceptable because it prevents unauthorized exit
  4. This is acceptable if the driver keeps a key on a lanyard

Explanation

Emergency exits must be operable from the inside without a key so passengers can escape quickly. A keyed exit defeats that purpose and is a defect that must be corrected.

Question 26Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection of a school bus, how should the driver check the operation of the red flashing warning lights and stop arm?

  1. Turn on the four-way hazard flashers and confirm the stop arm extends
  2. Ask a student to stand at the rear and report whether the lights flash
  3. Rely on the in-cab indicator lamp alone without stepping outside
  4. Activate the warning light switch and watch the lights flash and the stop arm extend from outside the bus Correct answer.

Explanation

The red warning lights and stop arm are operated by the warning light switch, not the hazard flashers, and the driver must physically verify the lights flash and the arm extends. Because the driver cannot see the rear lights and arm from the seat, the check requires stepping outside the bus and observing from front and rear. The in-cab indicator does not confirm the exterior lamps are working.

Question 27Vehicle Inspection

When inspecting the bus's mirrors before a route, the driver should confirm which condition?

  1. The mirrors are folded in to reduce wind resistance while driving
  2. The mirrors are set to show only the traffic directly behind the bus
  3. The mirrors are tinted to reduce glare from the sun
  4. The mirrors are clean, unbroken, and adjusted so the driver can see the required zones around the bus Correct answer.

Explanation

School bus mirrors must be clean and free of cracks and must be adjusted to give the driver a view of the required areas, including the front, sides, and the danger zone around the bus. Folding, tinting, or aiming them only rearward defeats their purpose and can hide children near the bus.

Question 28Vehicle Inspection

A driver is inspecting the bus's tires and finds a front tire with a deep cut that exposes the cord. What is the correct action?

  1. Move the tire to a rear position and continue the route
  2. Note the cut on the inspection report and drive the route as scheduled
  3. Tag the bus out of service and report the defect so the tire is replaced before the bus is used Correct answer.
  4. Inflate the tire to the maximum pressure and continue the route

Explanation

A cut deep enough to expose cord means the tire is structurally damaged and must be removed from service; it cannot be driven, even on a rear axle. The driver should document the defect and report it so the tire is repaired or replaced before the bus carries passengers.

Question 29Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's brake lights. Which result indicates the brake lights are working correctly?

  1. The brake lights illuminate only when the headlights are switched on
  2. The brake lights flash rapidly whenever the engine idles
  3. The brake lights illuminate when the brake pedal is pressed and go out when it is released Correct answer.
  4. The brake lights stay on continuously once the engine is started

Explanation

Brake lights must respond directly to the brake pedal, lighting when it is applied and extinguishing when it is released. Lights that stay on, flash randomly, or depend on the headlight switch indicate a wiring or switch defect that must be corrected before the route.

Question 30Vehicle Inspection

While checking the bus's air brake system, the driver performs a static leak test. What does this test verify?

  1. That the low-air warning buzzer sounds at the correct pressure
  2. That the compressor fills the tanks within a specified number of minutes
  3. That air pressure does not drop beyond the allowed rate when the brakes are applied and held Correct answer.
  4. That the parking brake releases automatically when the engine starts

Explanation

A static leak test checks whether the air brake system holds pressure when the brakes are applied and held, revealing leaks in lines, chambers, or valves. Compressor build-up time and low-air warning activation are separate checks in the air brake inspection sequence.

Question 31Vehicle Inspection

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

  1. Confirm it opens only with a key from the outside
  2. Verify it can be opened only by the driver from the seat
  3. Check that it stays propped open while the bus is moving
  4. Open and close it fully to confirm it operates smoothly, latches securely, and the warning buzzer or light activates when open Correct answer.

Explanation

The service door must open and close freely, latch securely, and trigger the door-open warning when it is not fully closed. A door that requires a key, stays propped open, or cannot be operated properly is a defect that affects passenger safety.

Question 32Vehicle Inspection

A driver is checking the bus's emergency exits and finds the side emergency window can be opened but the red exit sign is missing. What is the correct action?

  1. Cover the area with tape and continue the route
  2. Report the missing sign as a defect and have it replaced before the bus is used Correct answer.
  3. Continue the route because the window still opens
  4. Rely on the rear emergency door sign instead

Explanation

Emergency exit signs identify the exits for passengers and must be present and legible; a missing sign is a defect that must be corrected before operation. The fact that the window opens does not make up for the missing identification, and another exit's sign does not substitute.

Question 33Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's steering wheel free play. What is the purpose of this check?

  1. To detect excessive looseness in the steering system before it affects control of the bus Correct answer.
  2. To verify the power steering fluid is at the correct level
  3. To confirm the steering wheel is centered when the wheels are straight
  4. To ensure the horn button operates from the steering wheel

Explanation

Free play is the amount the steering wheel moves before the front wheels respond; excessive free play signals worn steering components and a loss of control risk. Centering, fluid level, and horn operation are separate checks and are not what free play measures.

Question 34Vehicle Inspection

A driver inspecting the bus's suspension should look for which condition?

  1. A small amount of road grime on the axle housing
  2. Broken or missing leaf springs, loose U-bolts, and leaking shock absorbers Correct answer.
  3. A slight film of dust on the spring leaves
  4. Even tire wear across the tread

Explanation

Suspension inspection focuses on structural defects such as cracked or missing leaves, loose U-bolts, and leaking shocks, all of which affect stability and load handling. Dust, grime, and normal tire wear are not defects.

Question 35Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's fuel system. Which observation indicates a defect that must be corrected?

  1. A strong diesel smell and visible wet spots around the fuel tank or lines Correct answer.
  2. A small amount of condensation on the outside of the tank
  3. A fuel cap that fits snugly and seals
  4. A fuel gauge reading slightly below full

Explanation

Visible fuel wetness and a strong fuel odor indicate a leak in the tank, lines, or fittings, which is a fire hazard and must be repaired before operation. A gauge below full, exterior condensation, and a properly sealing cap are normal.

Question 36Vehicle Inspection

While inspecting the bus's lighting, the driver finds the left rear turn signal does not flash but the right side works. What is the most appropriate first step?

  1. Turn on the hazard flashers to compensate for the failed signal
  2. Continue the route and note the issue in the log
  3. Replace the turn signal flasher unit immediately
  4. Check the bulb and socket on the affected side for a burned-out bulb or poor connection Correct answer.

Explanation

When one side fails while the other works, the flasher is generally functioning, so the fault is most likely at the affected bulb, socket, or wiring. The driver should inspect and correct that local fault and, if it cannot be fixed, tag the bus out of service; driving with a failed signal is not acceptable.

Question 37Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's heater and defroster. What should the driver confirm?

  1. That the heater is turned off during warm weather
  2. That the defroster blows only cold air to save energy
  3. That the defroster clears the windshield and the heater delivers warm air to the passenger compartment Correct answer.
  4. That the heater runs only when the bus is moving

Explanation

The defroster must be able to clear the windshield for visibility, and the heater must warm the passenger compartment for student comfort and safety in cold weather. A defroster that only blows cold air or a heater that works only while moving indicates a defect.

Question 38Vehicle Inspection

A driver is inspecting the bus's stop arm and finds it extends but does not retract fully when the switch is turned off. What is the correct interpretation?

  1. The stop arm is operating normally because it extends
  2. The stop arm only needs to retract when students are aboard
  3. The stop arm can be tied in the extended position for the route
  4. The stop arm mechanism is defective and must be repaired before the bus is used Correct answer.

Explanation

A stop arm must both extend and retract fully with the warning light switch; a failure to retract is a defect that could leave the arm extended while driving. The arm must be repaired before use, and tying it open or ignoring the fault is unsafe.

Question 39Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's backup alarm. What should the driver confirm?

  1. That the alarm sounds clearly when the transmission is placed in reverse Correct answer.
  2. That the alarm is audible only inside the bus
  3. That the alarm sounds when the service door opens
  4. That the alarm sounds continuously whenever the engine runs

Explanation

The backup alarm must activate when reverse is selected so people behind the bus are warned. An alarm that sounds continuously, is audible only inside, or is tied to the door is defective and must be corrected.

Question 40Vehicle Inspection

A driver completes the pre-trip inspection and finds several minor defects that do not affect safety, plus one safety-related defect. What is the correct practice?

  1. Operate the bus and report all defects at the end of the week
  2. Document only the safety-related defect and ignore the minor ones
  3. Correct the safety defect verbally and skip the written report
  4. Document all defects on the inspection report and ensure the safety-related defect is corrected before operating the bus Correct answer.

Explanation

All defects found during the inspection should be recorded, and any safety-related defect must be corrected before the bus is operated. Verbal notification or delayed reporting does not meet the requirement to document defects and ensure the bus is safe.

Question 41Loading and Unloading Students

Before a school bus driver departs a school loading zone with students aboard, what must be confirmed about each passenger?

  1. Each student has stored a backpack
  2. Each student is wearing a face covering
  3. Each student is seated and facing forward Correct answer.
  4. Each student has shown a bus pass

Explanation

The driver may not move the bus until every passenger is seated and facing forward, because a standing or turned student can be thrown on a sudden stop. A head count and a check of the aisle should be completed before releasing the parking brake.

Question 42Loading and Unloading Students

When students must cross the roadway after exiting the bus, where should the driver position the bus so students cross in front of it?

  1. So students cross at least ten feet ahead of the front bumper Correct answer.
  2. So students cross directly beside the driver's window
  3. So students cross behind the rear bumper
  4. So students cross at the midpoint of the bus

Explanation

Students should cross far enough ahead of the bus, roughly ten feet, that the driver can see them at all times and they remain outside the danger zone near the wheels. Crossing behind the bus or beside it puts them where the driver's view is blocked.

Question 43Loading and Unloading Students

What is the standard danger zone around a stopped school bus that students must clear before the driver moves?

  1. About ten feet in every direction Correct answer.
  2. About twenty-five feet in every direction
  3. About three feet in every direction
  4. About five feet to the rear only

Explanation

The danger zone is generally the area within about ten feet around the bus, where students are closest to the wheels and hardest for the driver to see. The driver must account for every student outside that zone before moving.

Question 44Loading and Unloading Students

A student drops a book under the bus while walking to the door. What should the student be told to do?

  1. Crawl under the bus to retrieve it
  2. Leave the item and tell the driver Correct answer.
  3. Ask another student to reach for it
  4. Wait beside the wheel until the bus leaves

Explanation

Nothing is worth a student going under or beside the bus, so the item should be left and the driver informed. The driver can secure the item safely after students are clear.

Question 45Loading and Unloading Students

When is a school bus driver permitted to leave the driver's seat while students are on board?

  1. Only after all students have left the bus
  2. Whenever the bus is parked at a school
  3. Any time the engine is running
  4. Only when the bus is secured and the driver is attending to a student emergency Correct answer.

Explanation

A driver should stay in the seat whenever students are aboard unless the bus is properly secured and there is a genuine need, such as responding to an emergency or assisting a student. Leaving the seat casually removes the person responsible for control of the bus.

Question 46Loading and Unloading Students

How should the driver signal students to begin crossing the roadway in front of the bus?

  1. By opening the service door and looking away
  2. By flashing the headlights
  3. By sounding the horn twice
  4. With a clear hand signal after making eye contact Correct answer.

Explanation

The driver should establish eye contact and give a clear hand signal so students know it is safe to cross. Horns and lights are not the standard crossing signal and may confuse or startle students.

Question 47Loading and Unloading Students

At a bus stop, when should students be allowed to approach and board the bus?

  1. After the driver signals them to come Correct answer.
  2. As soon as the bus slows down
  3. While the door is still opening
  4. When the bus is still rolling to a stop

Explanation

Students should wait in a safe spot until the bus has stopped and the driver signals them forward. This keeps them from reaching the door while the bus is still moving or before the driver is ready.

Question 48Loading and Unloading Students

A student's parent wants the child dropped at an address that requires the student to cross a busy highway. What is the appropriate driver action?

  1. Let the student cross when traffic looks clear
  2. Drop the student at the median instead
  3. Follow district policy and never let the student cross a multi-lane highway alone Correct answer.
  4. Let the student cross if the parent waves from the far side

Explanation

Districts set rules for hazardous crossings, and a student should not be released to cross a multi-lane highway without proper controls. The driver follows policy and reports the concern rather than improvising.

Question 49Loading and Unloading Students

What should the driver do with the stop arm and red lights when students are loading or unloading?

  1. Use only the hazard flashers
  2. Extend the stop arm and activate the red lights as required by law Correct answer.
  3. Use the left turn signal only
  4. Keep the stop arm retracted to save time

Explanation

The stop arm and red flashing lights warn traffic that students are entering or leaving the bus and are legally required during loading and unloading. Hazard or turn signals do not substitute for them.

Question 50Loading and Unloading Students

How should the driver count students during unloading to confirm no one remains aboard?

  1. Ask the last student off whether anyone remains
  2. Rely on the students to report who is still aboard
  3. Count only the students who normally ride
  4. Count each student as they exit and check the seats and aisle Correct answer.

Explanation

The driver personally counts students off the bus and then walks the aisle checking seats and the floor for anyone who stayed aboard or fell asleep. Relying on students or a single verbal report can leave a child behind.