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MO CDL School Bus study materials
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MO CDL School Bus practice questions

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Question 1Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

In the CDL school bus framework, the danger zone refers to which area around the bus?

  1. The area within about 10 feet on all sides where children are hardest to see Correct answer.
  2. The space between the bus and the curb at a bus stop
  3. The seating area behind the driver's seat where passengers board
  4. The area only directly behind the bus, from the rear bumper to 50 feet back

Explanation

The danger zone is the area around the bus, roughly 10 feet in every direction, where children are most likely to be hidden from the driver. It is not limited to the rear or to the curb side, and it applies whenever students are near the bus.

Question 2Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

Which school bus mirror system is designed specifically to let the driver see the area directly in front of the bus, including the front bumper?

  1. The interior rearview mirror
  2. The crossover (cross-view) mirrors Correct answer.
  3. The left and right convex mirrors
  4. The left and right flat mirrors

Explanation

Crossover mirrors, also called cross-view mirrors, are mounted at the front corners and show the bumper and the area directly ahead. Flat and convex side mirrors cover the sides and rear, and the interior mirror is for passengers.

Question 3Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A school bus driver notices that a child seen in the convex mirror looks smaller and farther away than the child actually is. What should the driver understand from this?

  1. The child is actually farther away than the mirror suggests
  2. The convex mirror is misadjusted and should be replaced before the trip
  3. The convex mirror widens the view but makes objects look farther away Correct answer.
  4. The flat mirror should be used instead because convex mirrors are only for the rear

Explanation

Convex mirrors use a curved surface to widen the field of view, but they make objects appear smaller and farther away. A driver must mentally correct for this distortion and should not assume a child is at the apparent distance.

Question 4Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

How should the outside flat mirrors on a school bus be adjusted before a trip?

  1. So the driver can see only the rear bumper and the area right behind the bus
  2. To see 200 feet behind, the bus sides, and the rear tires on the ground Correct answer.
  3. So the driver can see the front bumper and the crosswalk area ahead
  4. So the driver can see the passengers seated in the rows behind the driver's seat

Explanation

The flat mirrors should show 200 feet or four bus lengths behind the bus, the sides of the bus, and the rear tires touching the ground. This true-view adjustment lets the driver track traffic and the bus's position in the lane.

Question 5Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A student must cross the road in front of the school bus after unloading. Where should the student walk before crossing?

  1. Along the side of the bus, between the bus and the curb
  2. Behind the bus, out of the driver's mirror view
  3. At least 10 feet ahead of the bus, then wait for the driver's signal Correct answer.
  4. Directly in front of the front bumper, so the driver can see the student's feet

Explanation

Students who must cross in front should walk at least 10 feet ahead of the bus so they are visible, then cross only after the driver signals. Walking close to the bumper or behind the bus puts them in the danger zone.

Question 6Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

After unloading students at a stop, what should the school bus driver do before putting the bus back in motion?

  1. Rely on the stop arm and flashing red lights to keep students safe
  2. Check only the left flat mirror, since students exit on the right side
  3. Count the students and confirm that all are clear of the danger zone Correct answer.
  4. Sound the horn and proceed slowly out of the loading area

Explanation

Before moving, the driver must account for every student and confirm that no one remains in the danger zone. The stop arm and lights warn traffic, but they do not prove that students are clear.

Question 7Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

Why is the area directly behind a school bus especially dangerous during loading and unloading?

  1. The danger zone behind the bus is only about two feet deep
  2. The rear tires block the driver's view of the stop arm and the flashing red lights
  3. The crossover mirrors do not cover the rear, so children there are hidden Correct answer.
  4. The rear convex mirrors automatically switch off whenever the bus is stopped

Explanation

The crossover mirrors are aimed at the front, not the rear, and the driver's direct view behind the bus is limited. That makes the rear area a blind spot where a child can be hidden, so backing must be avoided or done with extreme care.

Question 8Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A school bus driver is preparing to back the bus in a loading area. What is the safest use of mirrors?

  1. Use the crossover mirrors only, since they show the area in front
  2. Check behind the bus directly or use a spotter, and keep checking mirrors Correct answer.
  3. Open the door and listen for children instead of checking the mirrors
  4. Check the side mirrors once, then back quickly to limit time in the danger zone

Explanation

Mirrors leave blind spots, so before backing the driver should check the area behind the bus directly or use a spotter. The driver should continue scanning the mirrors while the bus moves slowly.

Question 9Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

What is the main purpose of the interior rearview mirror on a school bus?

  1. To check the front bumper area
  2. To observe passenger behavior in the bus Correct answer.
  3. To replace the outside convex mirrors
  4. To see the road directly behind the bus while driving

Explanation

The interior rearview mirror is for monitoring passengers, not for viewing traffic behind the bus. The outside flat and convex mirrors are the tools for checking the road and danger zone.

Question 10Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

When should a school bus driver adjust the mirrors?

  1. After pulling out of the loading zone and entering the street
  2. Before driving, with the seat adjusted and the bus ready to move Correct answer.
  3. While the bus is moving, using the crossover mirrors to guide the adjustment
  4. Only when a substitute driver uses the bus for the first time

Explanation

Seat and mirror adjustments belong to the pre-trip routine, before the bus moves. Adjusting mirrors while driving distracts the driver and can leave a blind spot unchecked during a critical moment.

Question 11Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

In the Missouri school bus program, the danger zone around a stopped school bus extends outward how far from the bus?

  1. 20 feet in all directions
  2. 10 feet in all directions Correct answer.
  3. 5 feet in all directions
  4. 15 feet in all directions

Explanation

The danger zone is the area within 10 feet of the bus, including the front, rear, and both sides. A student inside that area can be hidden from the driver's view, so the driver must account for every student before moving.

Question 12Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

What is the main purpose of the outside flat mirrors on a school bus?

  1. To show the area directly in front of the front bumper
  2. To provide a wide-angle view of the sides
  3. To monitor traffic and the bus sides left and right Correct answer.
  4. To watch students seated inside the passenger compartment

Explanation

Flat mirrors are aimed to show the sides of the bus and traffic approaching from behind or alongside. They give a truer size and distance view than convex mirrors, which is why drivers use them with the other mirror systems.

Question 13Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

Before opening the service door to load students at a stop, the driver should first do which of the following?

  1. Sound the horn to tell students to approach the bus
  2. Open the door quickly so students can board without waiting
  3. Check mirrors and confirm students are outside the danger zone Correct answer.
  4. Turn on the red warning lights and step out of the bus

Explanation

The driver should scan the mirrors and make sure students are waiting outside the danger zone before opening the door. Opening the door is a signal for students to approach, so it should not happen until the area is clear.

Question 14Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

While driving a school bus, how often should the driver check the mirrors?

  1. Every 5 to 8 seconds Correct answer.
  2. Only when preparing to stop
  3. Every 15 to 20 seconds
  4. Every 1 to 2 seconds

Explanation

School bus drivers should scan the mirrors about every 5 to 8 seconds so they keep track of traffic and students around the bus. More frequent checks are needed in heavy traffic, at stops, and whenever students are nearby.

Question 15Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A student is standing 8 feet from the right side of a stopped school bus. What does this position mean for the driver?

  1. The student is safe if the red lights are flashing
  2. The student is inside the danger zone; keep the bus stopped Correct answer.
  3. The student is visible only in the interior mirror
  4. The student is outside the danger zone and may be ignored

Explanation

Eight feet is inside the 10-foot danger zone, where a student can be hidden from the driver's mirrors. The driver must keep the bus stopped and watch until the student is clear.

Question 16Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

Where should students wait until the driver signals them to board the school bus?

  1. Directly in front of the front bumper
  2. At the rear emergency door
  3. In the street beside the loading door
  4. On the sidewalk or curb outside the danger zone Correct answer.

Explanation

Students should wait on the sidewalk or curb, outside the 10-foot danger zone, until the driver signals them to board. The driver checks the mirrors first and then gives the signal.

Question 17Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A school bus driver finds that an outside mirror is cracked and cannot be adjusted properly before a route. What is the correct action?

  1. Ask a student to watch the blind side during the trip
  2. Drive the route and use only the interior mirror
  3. Tape the mirror and continue if the route is short
  4. Do not drive the bus until the mirror is repaired or replaced Correct answer.

Explanation

All required mirrors must be intact and properly adjusted because they are essential for watching the danger zone. A cracked or unadjustable mirror makes the bus unsafe, so it should not be driven until the problem is fixed.

Question 18Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

Why is the danger zone around a school bus especially hazardous to students?

  1. Students in that area are always visible in the flat mirrors
  2. The danger zone exists only when the bus is moving backward
  3. Students can enter blind spots and disappear from view Correct answer.
  4. Students are protected there by the bus's warning lights

Explanation

Mirrors leave gaps close to the bus, and a small student can move into an area the driver cannot see. That is why the driver must scan mirrors carefully and account for students before moving.

Question 19Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

During unloading, a student drops a book under the right side of the bus and starts to reach for it. What should the driver do?

  1. Move the bus forward slowly so the student can pick it up
  2. Sound the horn continuously until the student stands up
  3. Open the door and let the student retrieve the item while the bus idles
  4. Keep the bus stopped and tell the student to leave the item Correct answer.

Explanation

A student reaching under the bus is in extreme danger, so the driver must keep the bus completely stopped and get the student away from the item. The driver can retrieve the item later after all students are safe and accounted for.

Question 20Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A driver's crossview mirror is adjusted so high that it shows only the sky and the top of the hood. What risk does this create at a loading stop?

  1. The driver may not see the right rear wheels during a turn
  2. The driver may not see students seated behind the driver
  3. The driver may not see traffic approaching from the rear
  4. The driver may not see a student directly in front of the bumper Correct answer.

Explanation

The crossview mirror must show the front bumper and the road area immediately ahead so the driver can detect a student in front of the bus. If it is aimed too high, that critical front danger zone becomes a blind spot.

Question 21Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

On a Missouri school bus, the outside left and right convex mirrors are curved to provide which benefit?

  1. A direct view of the hood, bumper, and area immediately ahead
  2. Precise distance readings for vehicles following directly behind the bus
  3. A wider side and rear view, with objects appearing smaller Correct answer.
  4. A clear view of the passenger seats and aisle behind the driver

Explanation

Convex mirrors are curved outward, so they collect a wider field of view along both sides and the rear of the bus. The tradeoff is that people and vehicles appear smaller and farther away than they really are. Drivers must use that wide view for awareness, not for precise distance judgment.

Question 22Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

At a loading stop, what should the school bus driver do before moving the bus after the last student boards?

  1. Count and account for each student and scan the mirrors Correct answer.
  2. Close the door and assume every student is aboard
  3. Ask a passenger to watch through the rear window
  4. Move slowly so any student outside can step aside

Explanation

Before moving after loading, the driver must know where every student is. Closing the door does not prove that no child is still outside in the danger zone. The driver should count students and scan all mirrors for anyone near the bus.

Question 23Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

During unloading, a driver sees a student in the right convex mirror walking toward the rear of the bus. The student then disappears from that mirror. What should the driver do?

  1. Sound the horn and watch only the left flat mirror
  2. Assume the student has cleared the bus and proceed slowly
  3. Keep the bus stopped and regain sight of the student Correct answer.
  4. Open the service door and call the student to the front

Explanation

Losing sight of a student near the bus means the driver cannot confirm the danger zone is clear. The safe response is to keep the bus stationary and regain visual contact before any movement. Proceeding on an assumption risks running over a child who has moved into a blind area.

Question 24Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A school bus driver finds that a student in the danger zone is visible only after leaning far to the right in the seat. What does this most likely mean?

  1. The student is outside the danger zone
  2. The mirror is not adjusted for normal seated position Correct answer.
  3. The convex mirror is working as designed
  4. The mirror is set correctly for backing

Explanation

School bus mirrors are adjusted for the driver's normal seated driving position. If a student is visible only after leaning far to one side, the mirror is out of adjustment for that position. The driver should correct the mirror before relying on it.

Question 25Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors

A stopped school bus driver checks the flat, convex, and crossview mirrors and sees no student, but a child is standing near the right rear corner. What is the most accurate conclusion?

  1. The danger zone can include areas not visible in the mirror set Correct answer.
  2. The mirrors are defective whenever a student is unseen
  3. The interior mirror is the primary check for the right rear corner
  4. A student at the right rear corner is outside the danger zone

Explanation

No set of school bus mirrors eliminates every blind area around the bus. A student can be in the danger zone at the right rear corner while the flat, convex, and crossview mirrors show no clear image. The driver must therefore account for each student and not treat a mirror scan as proof that the area is clear.

Question 26Loading and Unloading

For a school bus stopped to load or unload students, the danger zone that must be kept clear extends at least how far around the bus?

  1. 10 feet Correct answer.
  2. 15 feet
  3. 20 feet
  4. 25 feet

Explanation

The area within 10 feet of a stopped school bus is commonly defined as the danger zone. Students inside that area are difficult for the driver to see and are close enough to be struck if the bus moves or passing traffic encroaches. Drivers should keep students outside the zone and watch it until every student is clear.

Question 27Loading and Unloading

A school bus stops where students must cross the roadway to reach their homes. Before the students leave the bus, the driver must:

  1. Flash the headlights and sound the horn before releasing students
  2. Activate only the amber warning lights and wave students across
  3. Activate the flashing red lights and extend the stop arm Correct answer.
  4. Turn on the four-way hazard flashers and open the service door

Explanation

When students must cross the roadway, the driver activates the flashing red lights and extends the stop arm so approaching traffic is required to stop. The amber lights are a warning that the bus is preparing to stop, and hazard flashers do not command traffic to halt. The driver then signals the students when it is safe to cross.

Question 28Loading and Unloading

Which condition concerning students must a school bus driver confirm before moving the bus after a loading stop?

  1. The service door has been closed
  2. The stop arm has been fully retracted into its housing
  3. The students have signaled that they are ready
  4. Every student is seated and accounted for Correct answer.

Explanation

The bus must remain stopped until each student is seated and accounted for, and the driver must also confirm the aisle is clear and the door is closed. Moving while students are still standing risks a fall and leaves the driver unsure whether everyone is aboard. Closing the door or retracting the stop arm does not by itself make it safe to move.

Question 29Loading and Unloading

A student must cross the roadway to board or leave the school bus. Where and when should the student cross?

  1. Behind the bus, where the rearview mirror shows them
  2. Beside the service door, within the driver's side mirror view
  3. At least 10 feet ahead, after the driver signals Correct answer.
  4. At the front bumper as soon as the service door opens

Explanation

Students should cross in front of the bus, at least 10 feet ahead of the front bumper, and only after the driver signals them to cross. This keeps them out of the danger zone and inside the driver's field of view. Crossing behind or beside the bus places them where the driver cannot reliably see them.

Question 30Loading and Unloading

A route requires serving students who live along a divided highway with three lanes in each direction. What is the safest way to handle students on the opposite side?

  1. Let students cross after the driver signals from the center line
  2. Arrange the stop so students never cross the highway Correct answer.
  3. Use the red lights and stop arm and expect all six lanes to stop
  4. Stop in the median so students cross only one direction of traffic

Explanation

On a divided highway, opposing traffic is not required to stop for a school bus, so a student crossing multiple lanes faces a serious risk. The safest plan is to route the stop so students load and unload on the same side without crossing the roadway. Stopping in a median or relying on all lanes to stop is unsafe because the driver cannot control traffic.

Question 31Loading and Unloading

A driver loads students in a school parking lot where no one crosses a public roadway. Which lighting should the driver use?

  1. Amber warning lights only, then red lights
  2. Four-way hazard flashers Correct answer.
  3. Headlights on high beam and the stop arm
  4. Flashing red lights and the stop arm

Explanation

When students load or unload on school property or another off-road site and no one crosses a public roadway, the driver uses the four-way hazard flashers to warn nearby traffic. The red lights and stop arm are reserved for stops where traffic must be halted for students. Using them in a parking lot can confuse other drivers about what action is required.

Question 32Loading and Unloading

Students waiting for the school bus at a rural roadside stop should be taught to:

  1. Wait in the roadway where oncoming traffic can see them
  2. Board as soon as the bus's amber warning lights come on
  3. Stand at the edge of the pavement so they can board quickly
  4. Wait well off the roadway and board only on the driver's signal Correct answer.

Explanation

Students should wait well off the roadway and away from traffic, then board only after the driver signals that it is safe. Waiting at the pavement edge or in the roadway places them in the danger zone before the bus has fully stopped. Boarding when the amber lights come on is premature because the bus may still be moving.

Question 33Loading and Unloading

A driver realizes the bus has stopped past the students' driveway and would need to back up to shorten their walk. What should the driver do?

  1. Pull forward and reposition without students aboard Correct answer.
  2. Back up using the rearview mirror and hazard flashers
  3. Back up only after the stop arm is retracted
  4. Back up slowly while a student spotter watches the rear

Explanation

A school bus must not be backed while students are loading or unloading, because visibility behind the bus is too limited and students may move into its path. If the stop is positioned poorly, the driver should pull forward and reposition the bus without students aboard, or have students wait in a safe place while the bus is moved. A student spotter never makes backing acceptable.

Question 34Loading and Unloading

During unloading, a student drops a book under the side of the bus. What should happen?

  1. The student should crouch beside the tire and reach for it quickly
  2. The driver should wave the student to get it while the red lights are on
  3. The student should ask a classmate to hold traffic and then get it
  4. The student stays clear and tells the driver; the driver retrieves it Correct answer.

Explanation

A student must never go under or beside the bus to retrieve an item, because bending down puts the child out of the driver's view and in the path of the wheels. The student should stay clear and tell the driver. The driver secures the bus, keeps track of the student, and retrieves the item or arranges for its return after students are clear.

Question 35Loading and Unloading

The last student has crossed the roadway and is clear. Before moving the bus, the driver should:

  1. Check mirrors, recount students, then cancel the red lights and stop arm Correct answer.
  2. Retract the stop arm first, then check the mirrors
  3. Release the parking brake and close the door while the red lights are cancelled
  4. Sound the horn and pull away while the lights are still flashing

Explanation

Before moving, the driver scans all mirrors, recounts the students, and confirms no one remains in the danger zone. Only then are the stop arm retracted and the red lights cancelled, so the warning to traffic stays in place until the crossing is complete. Releasing the brake or pulling away first removes the protection students may still need.

Question 36Loading and Unloading

A school bus is stopped on a public roadway to load students who are waiting on the shoulder. When must the driver extend the stop signal arm?

  1. Only when a student must cross the roadway
  2. Whenever students are being loaded or unloaded on the roadway Correct answer.
  3. Only when traffic is approaching from behind
  4. Only during hours of darkness

Explanation

Missouri requires the stop signal arm and red flashing lights when a school bus is receiving or discharging students on a roadway. The requirement is not limited to students who cross the road. The arm warns traffic in both directions and should stay extended until loading or unloading is complete.

Question 37Loading and Unloading

A driver has students seated on the bus at a stop and wants to step outside to speak with a waiting parent. What is the correct action?

  1. Ask an older student to watch the group
  2. Step out briefly while the engine idles
  3. Stay aboard with the students Correct answer.
  4. Leave the door open for ventilation

Explanation

A school bus driver may not leave the bus unattended while passengers are aboard because supervision of students is the driver's responsibility. The conversation should wait until unloading is complete or another approved staff member is present. Leaving students unsupervised creates serious safety and liability risks.

Question 38Loading and Unloading

At a routine unloading stop, which exit should students use to leave the school bus?

  1. The front service door Correct answer.
  2. The side emergency window
  3. Whichever exit is closest to their home
  4. The rear emergency door

Explanation

Routine unloading is done through the front service door, where the driver can directly observe students as they leave. Emergency exits are reserved for emergencies and supervised drills. Using an emergency exit at a normal stop can put students into traffic or unexpected hazards.

Question 39Loading and Unloading

A driver arrives at a curbside stop and intends to open the door for boarding students. Before opening the door, the driver should:

  1. Sound the horn to warn nearby traffic
  2. Release the parking brake and keep the engine at high idle
  3. Flash the headlights and open the door while still rolling
  4. Stop fully and secure the bus before opening Correct answer.

Explanation

The bus must be completely stopped and secured before students are allowed to board or leave. Applying the parking brake and checking traffic prevents the bus from moving while a student is at the door. Opening the door while the bus is still rolling is dangerous.

Question 40Loading and Unloading

A route stop must be made on a steep downhill grade. What is the safest procedure for loading or unloading?

  1. Hold the bus with the service brake and leave it in neutral
  2. Use the emergency flashers instead of the parking brake
  3. Keep the engine running and open the door quickly
  4. Set the parking brake and curb the front wheels Correct answer.

Explanation

On a grade, the bus must be secured so it cannot roll while students are at the door. Set the parking brake, keep the service brake applied until the bus is secured, and turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill stop. Flashers warn traffic but do not hold the bus.

Question 41Loading and Unloading

A driver's assigned stop is immediately after a railroad crossing, so the bus would have to stop partly on the tracks. What should the driver do?

  1. Have students cross the tracks to reach the bus
  2. Load or unload quickly so the stop takes less time
  3. Stop on the tracks but keep the door closed
  4. Relocate the stop clear of the tracks Correct answer.

Explanation

A school bus must never stop on or near railroad tracks for loading or unloading because students and the bus would be exposed to a train strike. The stop should be moved to a location where the bus is completely clear of the crossing. Convenience does not justify stopping on tracks.

Question 42Loading and Unloading

A student in a wheelchair is being loaded using the bus lift. Before the lift is raised, the driver or aide must confirm that:

  1. The service door is latched fully open
  2. Brakes are locked and restraints secure Correct answer.
  3. The stop signal arm has been retracted
  4. The student has both hands on the handrail

Explanation

The wheelchair must be centered on the lift with its brakes locked and the occupant's restraints secure before the lift moves. The operator should stay at the controls and never leave the lift unattended. These checks prevent the wheelchair from rolling or tipping during the lift.

Question 43Loading and Unloading

A bus becomes disabled in a safe pull-off area. There is no fire, smoke, or traffic hazard, and students are calm. What is the best action?

  1. Send students to the nearest house for help
  2. Keep students aboard and call for assistance Correct answer.
  3. Evacuate all students to the roadside immediately
  4. Have students exit and stand behind the bus

Explanation

Evacuation is reserved for dangers such as fire, smoke, or an unsafe stopping position because an unnecessary evacuation exposes students to traffic. With the bus in a safe place, the driver should keep students seated, secure the bus, and request help by radio or phone. Students should not be sent away unsupervised.

Question 44Loading and Unloading

A driver reaches a stop where loading students would force the bus to block an intersection. What should the driver do?

  1. Stop before the intersection and leave students waiting
  2. Stop in the intersection and load quickly
  3. Wave students across the intersection
  4. Continue to a safe point beyond the intersection Correct answer.

Explanation

Loading or unloading where the bus blocks an intersection creates conflicts with cross traffic and pedestrians. The driver should use a safe location that keeps the bus and students clear of the intersection. Blocking traffic for convenience is not a safe loading practice.

Question 45Loading and Unloading

After completing the last unloading stop, what should the driver do before leaving the bus?

  1. Walk the bus to check for sleeping students Correct answer.
  2. Assume all students exited at their assigned stops
  3. Check only the seats near the front door
  4. Open the emergency windows to air out the bus

Explanation

A post-trip walk-through is required to detect any student left aboard, including a child who fell asleep or hid. Checking only the front area or assuming everyone exited can leave a child trapped on the bus. The driver should walk the entire passenger area before securing the bus.

Question 46Loading and Unloading

A school bus is stopped on a public street to unload students. Before the driver opens the service door, how should the bus be secured?

  1. Turn on the hazard lights and leave the parking brake released.
  2. Place the transmission in park and set the parking brake. Correct answer.
  3. Open the door first so students can begin exiting while the brake is set.
  4. Keep the transmission in drive and hold the brake pedal.

Explanation

At any loading or unloading stop, the bus must be secured before the service door is opened. The transmission should be in park, or in neutral with the parking brake set, so the bus cannot roll while students are near the doorway.

Question 47Loading and Unloading

At a school, a driver is preparing to unload students. Where should the students be discharged?

  1. In the staff parking lot whenever the main zone is full.
  2. In the nearest traffic lane so students can reach the building quickly.
  3. In the school's designated loading and unloading zone, away from moving traffic. Correct answer.
  4. At the first curb space the bus can reach, regardless of markings.

Explanation

Students should be discharged only in the school's designated loading and unloading zone, following the school's traffic plan. Unloading in a traffic lane or an unmarked curb space puts students next to moving vehicles.

Question 48Loading and Unloading

While unloading students at a stop, how can the driver best confirm that no student remains on the bus after the stop?

  1. Count each student off against the boarding count. Correct answer.
  2. Check the seats only after reaching the next scheduled stop.
  3. Assume that every student who stood up has left the bus.
  4. Ask the remaining students whether anyone is still aboard.

Explanation

The driver should count students as they get off and compare that number with the count when they boarded. This accounting step helps ensure a quiet or sleeping child is not left on the bus.

Question 49Loading and Unloading

A route plan places a loading stop just beyond a blind curve where approaching drivers cannot see the bus in time. What should the driver do?

  1. Have students wait in the roadway so they can board faster.
  2. Stop partly in the curve but unload only on the shoulder.
  3. Keep the stop and rely on the red lights to warn traffic.
  4. Relocate the stop to a visible spot and report the change. Correct answer.

Explanation

A school bus stop must be placed where approaching traffic can see the bus in time to stop. If a stop is beyond a blind curve, the driver should relocate it to a visible location and report the route change rather than rely on lights alone.

Question 50Loading and Unloading

A driver must unload students, but a parked car blocks the curb and the only open space is a travel lane. What is the safest course of action?

  1. Sound the horn until the car is moved, then unload in the travel lane.
  2. Unload quickly into the travel lane while traffic is light.
  3. Stop in the travel lane and activate the red lights; students can walk around the car.
  4. Continue to a safe place away from moving traffic before unloading. Correct answer.

Explanation

Students must never be unloaded into a travel lane. If the curb is blocked, the driver should continue to a safe location where students can leave the bus away from moving traffic, then follow the route plan for reporting the blocked stop.