I85PREP
⌘ K
MN CDL Passenger study materials
MN CDL Passenger study resources

MN CDL Passenger practice questions

One question at a time. Build your MN CDL Passenger understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Vehicle Inspection

Before starting a trip in a Minnesota-registered passenger bus, the driver must complete a pre-trip inspection. What is the primary purpose of this inspection?

  1. To confirm that the bus has been washed and cleaned inside
  2. To verify that safety-critical systems and equipment are in proper working order before the vehicle carries passengers Correct answer.
  3. To estimate the fuel cost of the planned route
  4. To record the number of passengers expected on each trip

Explanation

A pre-trip inspection is a systematic check that brakes, steering, lights, tires, emergency exits, and other safety-critical items function properly before the vehicle moves with passengers aboard. Catching defects on the ground prevents breakdowns and crashes on the road. Cleaning and cost estimates may be useful but are not the safety purpose of the inspection.

Question 2Vehicle Inspection

During the exterior walk-around of a pre-trip inspection, how should the driver check the tires?

  1. Check only the front tires, since rear tires carry less weight
  2. Look for tread depth, cuts, bulges, and proper inflation, and check dual tires for debris between them Correct answer.
  3. Kick each tire once and listen for a dull sound
  4. Wait until the first stop to check tire condition

Explanation

Tires must be inspected visually for adequate tread, sidewall damage, and correct inflation, and stones or objects wedged between dual tires must be removed. Kicking a tire does not reliably reveal low pressure or internal damage. All tires, including duals, are safety-critical.

Question 3Vehicle Inspection

A passenger bus driver finds that the low-air warning buzzer does not sound when air pressure drops during the pre-trip check. What is the correct action?

  1. Continue the trip and report it at the end of the day
  2. Proceed but avoid using the brakes on hills
  3. Increase engine idle speed to build pressure faster
  4. Place the bus out of service until the warning system is repaired Correct answer.

Explanation

The low-air warning is a required safety device that alerts the driver before brake performance is lost. A bus with an inoperative warning system must not be placed in service until it is repaired. Deferring the repair to the end of the day leaves passengers exposed to a serious brake hazard.

Question 4Vehicle Inspection

When checking the service brakes during a pre-trip inspection, what should the driver do?

  1. Rely on the parking brake alone as proof the service brakes work
  2. Test them only after loading passengers
  3. Pump the pedal rapidly and release it without holding pressure
  4. Build normal pressure, then apply the brakes and check for firm pedal or normal air-loss response and no pulling Correct answer.

Explanation

Service brakes are checked by building normal pressure, applying the brakes, and observing proper pedal feel or acceptable air loss along with no pulling or unusual noise. Brakes must be verified before passengers board, not after. The parking brake is a separate system and does not prove service brake function.

Question 5Vehicle Inspection

What must the driver confirm about the emergency exits during a pre-trip inspection of a passenger bus?

  1. That they are locked to prevent unauthorized use
  2. That they are painted the same color as the interior
  3. That they open freely, are properly marked, and their warning devices function Correct answer.
  4. That only the rear exit is checked, since it is the primary one

Explanation

Emergency exits must open freely from inside, be clearly marked and unobstructed, and have functioning warning buzzers or devices where required. Locking exits or blocking them would trap passengers in an emergency. Every exit, not just one, must be verified.

Question 6Vehicle Inspection

A driver is inspecting a bus and notices the stop-arm (school-bus style crossing arm) does not extend when tested. If this bus is a type required to have a functioning stop arm, what should the driver do?

  1. Operate the route and manually wave students across
  2. Ignore it because the arm is only decorative
  3. Fold the arm away permanently and continue
  4. Tag the bus out of service until the stop arm is repaired Correct answer.

Explanation

A required stop arm is safety equipment that signals traffic to stop while passengers cross. If it fails to extend, the bus should be removed from service until repaired. Manually waving passengers across does not control surrounding traffic and is unsafe.

Question 7Vehicle Inspection

While checking lights on the bus, the driver finds a burned-out brake light. What is the appropriate response before carrying passengers?

  1. Replace or repair the light so all required lamps work Correct answer.
  2. Use hand signals instead of repairing the light
  3. Continue, since one brake light is optional
  4. Cover the opposite brake light so both sides match

Explanation

All required exterior lamps, including brake lights, must be functioning before the bus is operated. A burned-out brake light reduces the vehicle's visibility to following traffic and is a defect that must be corrected. Hand signals are not an acceptable substitute for required lighting on a bus.

Question 8Vehicle Inspection

What is the correct way to check the engine oil and coolant levels during a pre-trip inspection?

  1. With the engine off and the bus level, verify fluid levels are within the marked range Correct answer.
  2. Check only the coolant, since oil is changed by maintenance
  3. Check them only after the engine has run for an hour
  4. Estimate levels by the sound of the engine

Explanation

Fluid levels are checked with the engine off and the vehicle on level ground so the readings are accurate. Oil and coolant both protect the engine from damage and must be within the proper range before departure. Guessing by sound is not a valid check.

Question 9Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver should check the steering system. Which observation indicates a problem requiring attention?

  1. Excessive steering wheel free play or unusual looseness Correct answer.
  2. Power steering assist engages normally
  3. The wheel returns smoothly after a turn
  4. Slight normal play within manufacturer specification

Explanation

Excessive free play or looseness in the steering indicates worn components and must be corrected before operating the bus. Normal slight play within specification, smooth return, and working power assist are signs of a healthy system. Steering defects are especially dangerous in a large passenger vehicle.

Question 10Vehicle Inspection

A bus driver is about to leave the terminal and realizes the pre-trip inspection was skipped because of a tight schedule. What is the correct course of action?

  1. Depart and perform the inspection at the first passenger stop
  2. Perform the pre-trip inspection before moving the bus, even if it delays departure Correct answer.
  3. Have a passenger watch the mirrors during the trip instead
  4. Skip the inspection since the bus ran fine the day before

Explanation

The pre-trip inspection must be completed before the bus moves with passengers, regardless of schedule pressure. Yesterday's good performance does not guarantee today's condition, and defects can develop overnight. Safety requirements take priority over a tight schedule.

Question 11Vehicle Inspection

When inspecting the parking (emergency) brake on an air-brake equipped bus, what should the driver verify?

  1. That it works only on the front axle
  2. That it is disconnected to prevent drag
  3. That the brake holds the bus when applied and releases properly Correct answer.
  4. That it can be applied only while moving

Explanation

The parking brake must be able to hold the stationary bus securely and release fully so the wheels turn freely. It is a backup stopping system and must function independently of the service brakes. A brake that drags or fails to hold indicates a defect requiring repair.

Question 12Vehicle Inspection

What should the driver check regarding the bus's mirrors before departure?

  1. That only the interior mirror is present
  2. That they are removed for city routes
  3. That they are folded in to reduce wind resistance
  4. That they are clean, properly adjusted, and provide the required fields of view Correct answer.

Explanation

Mirrors must be clean, securely mounted, and adjusted so the driver can see the required areas around the bus, including the sides and front crossing zone. Proper mirror adjustment is essential for monitoring passengers and traffic. Folding or removing mirrors eliminates critical visibility.

Question 13Vehicle Inspection

During the interior inspection, the driver should verify the passenger seats and handrails. Which condition requires correction before departure?

  1. Stanchions that are firmly bolted in place
  2. Loose seat mounts or broken handrails that could injure passengers Correct answer.
  3. Aisle lighting that operates normally
  4. Seats that are securely fastened with intact cushions

Explanation

Loose seats and broken handrails can cause passenger injuries during normal operation or sudden stops, so they must be repaired before the bus carries passengers. Securely fastened seats, working lighting, and firmly bolted stanchions are signs of a sound interior.

Question 14Vehicle Inspection

How should a driver check the bus's horn during a pre-trip inspection?

  1. Test it only while driving at highway speed
  2. Skip it because horns are optional on buses
  3. Sound it briefly to confirm it works and is audible Correct answer.
  4. Assume it works if the battery is charged

Explanation

The horn is a required safety device used to warn others of danger, so the driver should sound it briefly to confirm it operates and is audible. A charged battery does not guarantee the horn circuit works. Horns are required equipment, not optional.

Question 15Vehicle Inspection

A driver inspecting an air-brake bus notices the air pressure builds very slowly and will not reach the normal operating range. What does this indicate and what should the driver do?

  1. Normal behavior for cold weather; depart as scheduled
  2. That the gauge is decorative and can be ignored
  3. That the bus needs more passengers to build pressure
  4. A possible compressor or air-system defect; keep the bus out of service until repaired Correct answer.

Explanation

Slow pressure buildup or failure to reach normal operating range points to a compressor or air-system fault that could leave the bus without adequate braking. The bus must remain out of service until the system is repaired. Air pressure gauges are functional instruments, not decoration.

Question 16Vehicle Inspection

What is the purpose of checking the bus's emergency equipment, such as the fire extinguisher and emergency triangles, during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. To count them for inventory records only
  2. To move them to the luggage compartment
  3. To confirm they are present, charged or intact, and accessible for use Correct answer.
  4. To verify they match the bus's paint color

Explanation

Emergency equipment must be present, in working condition, and readily accessible so it can be used if a fire or breakdown occurs. A discharged extinguisher or missing triangles leaves the driver unprepared. Inventory counts and color matching are not the safety purpose.

Question 17Vehicle Inspection

While checking the wheelchair lift on an accessible bus, the driver finds the lift operates but the safety interlock does not prevent the bus from moving when the lift is deployed. What should the driver do?

  1. Remove the bus from service until the interlock is repaired Correct answer.
  2. Use the lift only on level ground and continue
  3. Operate the lift only when passengers are seated
  4. Have an assistant hold the door closed during lift use

Explanation

The safety interlock prevents the bus from moving while the lift is deployed, protecting passengers on the platform. If it fails, the bus must be taken out of service until repaired. Level ground or an assistant does not replace the interlock's protection against movement.

Question 18Vehicle Inspection

How should the driver verify the bus's turn signals and four-way flashers during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. Test them after the first passenger boards
  2. Check only the front signals from the driver's seat
  3. Assume they work if the headlights come on
  4. Activate each and walk around to confirm all lamps flash correctly Correct answer.

Explanation

Turn signals and four-way flashers must be activated and checked from outside the bus so the driver can confirm every lamp flashes correctly. Headlights working does not prove the signal circuit functions. All signals, front and rear, must be verified before passengers board.

Question 19Vehicle Inspection

A driver completes the pre-trip inspection and finds a defect that does not affect safety but should be noted, such as a torn seat cover. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Refuse to operate the bus until the cover is replaced
  2. Repair it personally during the trip
  3. Record the defect on the inspection report and continue, since it is not safety-related Correct answer.
  4. Ignore it and mention nothing

Explanation

Non-safety defects should still be documented on the inspection report so maintenance can address them, but they do not require removing the bus from service. Safety-related defects, by contrast, must be corrected before operation. Recording defects supports a reliable maintenance program.

Question 20Vehicle Inspection

What should the driver check about the bus's exhaust system during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. That it is intact with no leaks that could allow exhaust into the passenger compartment Correct answer.
  2. That it terminates under the passenger floor
  3. That it is painted a bright color
  4. That it is loud enough to be heard

Explanation

The exhaust system must be intact and free of leaks so carbon monoxide cannot enter the passenger compartment, where it could sicken or kill occupants. Loudness is not a desirable trait, and the exhaust must discharge outside the vehicle, away from the passenger area.

Question 21Vehicle Inspection

Before moving a bus, the driver should ensure the passenger door operates properly. Which condition is acceptable?

  1. The door opens unexpectedly while the bus is moving
  2. The door opens and closes smoothly and the warning device functions Correct answer.
  3. The door closes only when held by a passenger
  4. The door remains slightly open to improve ventilation

Explanation

The passenger door must open and close properly and any door warning device must function so the driver knows the door is secure. A door that needs to be held shut or opens while moving is a serious hazard. Ventilation is not a reason to leave a door ajar.

Question 22Vehicle Inspection

A driver is inspecting the bus's tires and finds a large bulge in the sidewall of one tire. What does this indicate and what should be done?

  1. That the tire is new; no action needed
  2. That the tire is overinflated; release some air and continue
  3. Internal tire damage that could cause a blowout; replace the tire before operating Correct answer.
  4. Normal wear; continue the trip

Explanation

A sidewall bulge signals internal structural damage that can lead to a sudden blowout, especially under the load of a passenger bus. The tire must be replaced before the bus is operated. Releasing air does not repair internal damage, and a bulge is never normal.

Question 23Vehicle Inspection

How should the driver verify the bus's windshield and wipers during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. Confirm the glass is clean and uncracked in the driver's view and the wipers clear the glass Correct answer.
  2. Confirm the windshield is tinted darkly
  3. Assume wipers work if it is not raining
  4. Check only the passenger-side wiper

Explanation

The windshield must be clean and free of cracks or obstructions in the driver's field of view, and the wipers must clear the glass effectively. Both wipers are needed for visibility in rain or snow. Clear visibility is essential regardless of current weather.

Question 24Vehicle Inspection

During a pre-trip inspection, the driver notices the bus pulls to one side when the brakes are applied during a low-speed test. What is the most likely cause and appropriate action?

  1. Normal brake behavior; continue the trip
  2. That the steering wheel is too small
  3. A brake defect such as uneven braking; keep the bus out of service until checked Correct answer.
  4. Low tire pressure on the front only; ignore it

Explanation

Pulling to one side under braking suggests uneven brake force, a stuck caliper, or a contaminated lining, any of which can cause loss of control during a stop. The bus must not carry passengers until the brake system is inspected and repaired. Brake pull is never normal.

Question 25Vehicle Inspection

The driver is completing the pre-trip inspection report. What information should the report contain?

  1. The names of the passengers on board
  2. A general statement that the bus was checked
  3. All defects found, identified by item and description, signed by the driver Correct answer.
  4. Only defects that require immediate repair

Explanation

The inspection report should list every defect found, identify the item and describe the problem, and be signed by the driver so maintenance has a clear record. Reporting only some defects or writing a vague statement defeats the purpose. Passenger names are unrelated to vehicle condition.

Question 26Vehicle Inspection

During a pre-trip inspection of a passenger-carrying bus, what should the driver confirm about the passenger entry door before moving the vehicle?

  1. That it closes only when the engine is running
  2. That it can be opened from the outside only
  3. That it stays slightly ajar so passengers can board more quickly
  4. That it opens and closes smoothly and latches securely, with no gaps or damage to the seal Correct answer.

Explanation

The passenger door must open and close smoothly, latch firmly, and seal against the frame so it does not open while the bus is moving. A worn seal or weak latch can let exhaust fumes or weather into the cabin and may allow the door to swing open in transit.

Question 27Vehicle Inspection

A driver checks the bus's speedometer and finds the needle stays at zero even while the bus rolls forward slowly during the inspection. What is the correct interpretation?

  1. This is normal because speedometers only register above 25 mph
  2. The speedometer is defective and the defect must be recorded and corrected before dispatch Correct answer.
  3. The driver should tap the glass and continue the trip if it starts moving
  4. The cable simply needs warming up and will work once the bus is on the highway

Explanation

A speedometer that does not register motion is a defective instrument and must be noted and repaired before the bus is placed in service. A driver cannot monitor speed limits without a working speedometer, which is a required inspection item.

Question 28Vehicle Inspection

While inspecting the bus's baggage compartment doors, the driver notices the latch holds but the door can be pushed inward about an inch. What should the driver do?

  1. Tie the door shut with rope and depart
  2. Record the defect and have the door and latch repaired before carrying passengers Correct answer.
  3. Ask a passenger to hold the door during the trip
  4. Ignore it because the latch still holds the door shut

Explanation

A compartment door that latches but still moves inward indicates a worn latch, hinge, or seal that can fail completely while the bus is moving. The defect must be documented and repaired before the bus is dispatched with passengers.

Question 29Vehicle Inspection

During a pre-trip inspection, the driver presses the brake pedal and it slowly sinks toward the floor while held. Which conclusion is correct?

  1. This is normal for hydraulic brakes and can be ignored
  2. The condition only matters on steep downgrades
  3. The brake system may have a fluid leak or internal bypass and must be repaired before driving Correct answer.
  4. The driver should pump the pedal once and then depart

Explanation

A brake pedal that continues to sink while held indicates a loss of hydraulic pressure, such as a fluid leak or a failing master cylinder. The bus must not be driven until the brake system is inspected and repaired.

Question 30Vehicle Inspection

What should the driver verify about the bus's emergency exit windows during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. That the release handles work and the exits open freely from inside Correct answer.
  2. That they are locked with a padlock from the outside
  3. That they open only with a special tool kept in the office
  4. That they are painted shut to prevent tampering

Explanation

Emergency exit windows must open freely from inside using their release handles so passengers can escape in a crash or fire. Handles must be unobstructed and the exit must not be sealed or locked against use.

Question 31Vehicle Inspection

A driver finds the bus's heater blows only cold air during the pre-trip inspection on a winter morning. How should the driver treat this finding?

  1. As normal until the engine fully warms up over the first hour
  2. As a comfort issue only, so the trip can proceed
  3. As something to fix only if passengers complain
  4. As a defect to record and repair, because a working defroster and heater are needed for visibility and passenger safety Correct answer.

Explanation

The heating and defrosting system keeps the windshield clear and the cabin safe in cold weather, so a failure is a reportable defect. A driver cannot maintain visibility if the defroster does not work.

Question 32Vehicle Inspection

During the inspection, the driver checks the bus's seat belts at the driver position and finds the belt webbing is frayed and cut partway through. What is the proper action?

  1. Tie a knot in the frayed section
  2. Cover the fray with tape and continue
  3. Replace the belt before operating the bus Correct answer.
  4. Use the belt anyway since the buckle still clicks

Explanation

Frayed or cut seat belt webbing can tear completely in a crash and will not restrain the driver. The belt must be replaced before the bus is operated.

Question 33Vehicle Inspection

While inspecting the bus, the driver notices the fuel gauge reads empty although the bus was refueled the previous day. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Refuel and verify the gauge reading, and record the gauge defect if it persists Correct answer.
  2. Assume the gauge is broken and depart with a full-tank assumption
  3. Ignore the gauge because buses have a reserve tank
  4. Disconnect the gauge so it does not distract the driver

Explanation

A gauge that does not reflect the actual fuel level is unreliable, so the driver should verify fuel quantity directly and report the instrument if it remains faulty. Running out of fuel with passengers aboard creates a serious roadside hazard.

Question 34Vehicle Inspection

What should the driver check about the bus's suspension air bags during a walk-around inspection?

  1. That they are removed in warm weather
  2. That they are inflated properly, free of cuts or leaks, and hold the bus at ride height Correct answer.
  3. That they are wrapped in plastic for protection
  4. That they are fully deflated to soften the ride

Explanation

Air suspension bags must be properly inflated and free of cuts, abrasions, or leaks so the bus sits at the correct ride height and handles predictably. A leaking or damaged bag can cause the bus to sag and affect steering and braking.

Question 35Vehicle Inspection

A driver inspecting the bus notices the steering wheel has excessive free play before the front wheels begin to respond. What does this most likely indicate?

  1. A normal condition on large buses that requires no action
  2. That the power steering fluid is too cold
  3. Worn steering components such as tie rods or a loose steering box that need repair Correct answer.
  4. That the tires are overinflated

Explanation

Excessive free play means the steering linkage or gearbox has worn parts, which reduces steering precision and can lead to loss of control. The bus must be inspected and repaired before it carries passengers.

Question 36Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver checks the bus's stop, tail, and clearance lights using the help of a second person. What is the key requirement?

  1. Only the rear lights need checking
  2. Only the headlights need to be checked
  3. All required lamps must illuminate and be the correct color, with none burned out Correct answer.
  4. Lights may be skipped if the trip is during daylight

Explanation

Every required lamp must work and display the correct color so the bus is visible and its intentions are clear to other drivers. A second person or reflective surface helps confirm lamps that the driver cannot see from the cab.

Question 37Vehicle Inspection

A driver is inspecting a bus equipped with an air-brake system and hears a steady hiss near a wheel after the brakes are released. What should the driver conclude?

  1. The driver should increase engine speed to drown out the noise
  2. There is likely an air leak in the brake chamber or line that must be repaired before dispatch Correct answer.
  3. The hiss means the brakes are working better than usual
  4. The hiss is normal and can be ignored

Explanation

A continuous hiss after releasing the brakes points to a leaking brake chamber, hose, or fitting that can cause pressure loss and brake failure. The leak must be found and repaired before the bus is driven.

Question 38Vehicle Inspection

While checking the bus's tires, the driver finds a tire with tread depth below the minimum and a matching tire on the same axle that is properly worn. What is the correct action?

  1. Inflate the worn tire above the recommended pressure to compensate
  2. Reduce speed and continue with the worn tire
  3. Move the worn tire to a less critical position and depart
  4. Remove the worn tire from service and replace it before the trip Correct answer.

Explanation

A tire below the minimum tread depth cannot be kept in service because it loses traction and is prone to failure, especially in wet conditions. The tire must be replaced before the bus carries passengers.

Question 39Vehicle Inspection

During the pre-trip inspection, the driver notices the bus's rear license plate lamp is out while all other lamps work. How should this be handled?

  1. Replace the fuse for the entire lighting circuit
  2. Continue the trip and report it at the next annual inspection
  3. Record the defect and have the lamp replaced before operating the bus Correct answer.
  4. Ignore it because the plate is still visible in daylight

Explanation

A required lamp that does not work is a defect that must be documented and corrected before the bus is placed in service. The plate lamp is a required lighting item even if the plate can be read in daylight.

Question 40Vehicle Inspection

A driver is completing the pre-trip inspection on a bus with a hydraulic braking system and wants to confirm the brakes are not dragging. Which check best reveals a dragging brake?

  1. Checking the brake fluid color only
  2. Revving the engine and listening for a change in pitch
  3. Looking at the brake pedal height
  4. Feeling each wheel hub for unusual heat after a short roll and noting any pull when braking Correct answer.

Explanation

A dragging brake generates extra heat at the affected wheel and can cause the bus to pull when the brakes are applied. Feeling hub temperatures and noting pull during a low-speed brake test reveals the problem.

Question 41Loading and Unloading Passengers

Under Minnesota rules for passenger-carrying vehicles, who is responsible for making sure passengers are seated and secure before the vehicle starts moving?

  1. The terminal supervisor
  2. The dispatcher
  3. The front-seat passenger
  4. The driver Correct answer.

Explanation

The driver holds legal responsibility for the safety of the load, which includes passengers, and must confirm everyone is properly seated and secured before putting the vehicle in motion. This duty cannot be delegated to a passenger or a dispatcher who is not in the vehicle.

Question 42Loading and Unloading Passengers

When a passenger bus stops along a Minnesota roadway to load or unload passengers, the driver should activate which lighting to warn approaching traffic?

  1. Fog lights
  2. Hazard warning flashers Correct answer.
  3. Interior dome lights only
  4. High-beam headlights

Explanation

Hazard warning flashers signal other motorists that the vehicle is stopped and passengers may be entering or exiting the roadway. This warning is especially important at night or in reduced visibility so approaching drivers can slow and give clearance.

Question 43Loading and Unloading Passengers

A passenger with a disability boards using a mobility device. What must the driver ensure before the bus departs the stop?

  1. The passenger is moved to a standard seat regardless of preference
  2. The passenger signs a waiver releasing the carrier
  3. The mobility device is secured and the passenger is restrained as required Correct answer.
  4. The mobility device is folded and stored in the aisle

Explanation

Federal and state accessibility rules require that a mobility device be secured and the passenger provided appropriate restraint so they are protected during normal vehicle movement and braking. Removing a passenger from their device against their wishes is not permitted.

Question 44Loading and Unloading Passengers

While loading passengers at a curb, the driver notices a passenger's large bag blocking the aisle near the emergency exit. What is the correct action?

  1. Allow it to remain if the passenger holds it steady
  2. Have the bag stowed so the aisle and exit remain clear before moving Correct answer.
  3. Continue the trip and address it at the next terminal
  4. Place the bag on an empty seat instead of the floor

Explanation

Aisles and emergency exits must stay clear so passengers can evacuate quickly and so people do not trip while the bus is moving. Carry-on items must be stowed in a way that does not obstruct these paths.

Question 45Loading and Unloading Passengers

When must a school bus driver in Minnesota activate the red flashing lights and stop arm during a passenger stop?

  1. Only when another vehicle is approaching from behind
  2. When loading or unloading students who must cross the roadway Correct answer.
  3. Whenever the bus is stopped in a loading zone
  4. Only during hours of darkness

Explanation

Red lights and the extended stop arm are used to halt traffic when students must cross the road to or from the bus. When students do not cross the roadway, the driver uses the yellow warning lights and does not extend the stop arm.

Question 46Loading and Unloading Passengers

A driver is dropping off passengers on a two-lane Minnesota road. To reduce the risk of a passenger being struck, where should the bus stop whenever practical?

  1. In the left lane near the centerline
  2. In the lane of travel with flashers on
  3. On the right side of the roadway at the curb or shoulder Correct answer.
  4. In an intersection to keep traffic flowing

Explanation

Stopping at the right curb or shoulder keeps passengers out of the travel lane and away from moving traffic. Stopping in a live lane or an intersection exposes exiting passengers to vehicles and disrupts traffic flow.

Question 47Loading and Unloading Passengers

Before opening the passenger door to unload at a stop, the driver should first do what?

  1. Check mirrors and look for approaching traffic and cyclists Correct answer.
  2. Release the parking brake
  3. Sound the horn to alert pedestrians
  4. Turn off all interior lighting

Explanation

Checking mirrors and scanning for traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians before opening the door prevents striking someone or letting a passenger step into the path of a moving vehicle. The door should not open until the area alongside the bus is clear.

Question 48Loading and Unloading Passengers

What is the maximum number of passengers a Minnesota passenger vehicle may carry?

  1. No more than the manufacturer's rated seating capacity Correct answer.
  2. Two more than the number of seats
  3. As many as can stand in the aisle
  4. The number set by the driver's judgment

Explanation

A passenger vehicle may not carry more passengers than the seating capacity for which it is designed and equipped. Overloading reduces braking and handling performance and leaves passengers without proper restraints.

Question 49Loading and Unloading Passengers

A passenger appears intoxicated and is unsteady as they board. What is the most appropriate driver response?

  1. Refuse boarding or remove the passenger if they pose a safety risk Correct answer.
  2. Ask other passengers to watch them
  3. Board them but skip the fare
  4. Allow boarding and assign them a seat near the door

Explanation

A driver may deny boarding to a passenger whose condition creates a safety risk to themselves or others, and should handle the situation calmly and without confrontation. Allowing an unsteady passenger to ride unrestrained or near an exit increases the chance of a fall or injury.

Question 50Loading and Unloading Passengers

During a passenger stop, the driver should keep the vehicle in which configuration to prevent unintended movement?

  1. Parking brake set and transmission in park or neutral with brake applied Correct answer.
  2. Engine running in gear with foot off the brake
  3. Engine off but transmission in drive
  4. Transmission in drive with parking brake released

Explanation

Setting the parking brake and holding the service brake with the transmission in park or neutral keeps the bus from rolling while passengers board or exit. A vehicle left in gear without braking can creep and injure someone at the door.