MS CDL Passenger flashcards

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

Last DVIR review

Before driving, review the previous driver vehicle inspection report; sign it to certify any noted defect was repaired or does not affect safety.

Air-brake leakage limits

With a full system and engine off, released brakes should lose no more than 2 psi per minute (3 psi combination); applied brakes no more than 3 psi (4 psi combination).

Low-air warning threshold

The low-air warning buzzer or light must activate by 60 psi, and the spring brakes must apply between 20 and 45 psi.

Emergency equipment on board

A passenger bus must carry a fire extinguisher rated at least 5 BC, three reflective triangles, and a first aid kit; check mounts and gauges.

Standee line rule

Standees may ride only behind the marked standee line; no passenger may stand forward of that line or in the stepwell.

Passenger count check

Count passengers as they board and after each stop; never exceed the seated capacity plus approved standee positions.

Aisle clearance

Keep the aisle, stepwells, and exits clear; baggage belongs in racks, under seats, or in the baggage compartment, never in the aisle.

Pre-departure scan

Before moving, confirm the door is closed and latched, all passengers are seated or holding a rail, and the interlock allows movement.

Following distance formula

Allow one second per 10 feet of vehicle length below 40 mph, plus one second above 40 mph; a 40-foot bus needs 4 to 5 seconds.

Railroad crossing stop

Buses carrying passengers must stop 15 to 50 feet from the nearest rail, look and listen, then cross without shifting gears.

Drawbridge procedure

Stop before the drawbridge and confirm it is safe and fully closed before proceeding, unless an attendant or signal controls traffic.

Low clearance check

Know your vehicle's posted height; never attempt a clearance that is not clearly higher than the bus; take the posted alternate route.

Brake-door interlock

The interlock prevents the bus from moving while the door is open; never disable or bypass it, and take the bus out of service if it fails.

Bus stop approach

Signal early, stop close to the right curb, set the parking brake, and check mirrors for cyclists before opening the door.

Door operation rule

Open the door only when fully stopped and close it before moving; never load or unload passengers while the bus is in motion.

Rider safety in motion

Passengers must remain seated or hold a handrail while the bus is moving; enforce this before accelerating away from a stop.

Handheld phone ban

Holding a mobile phone while driving a commercial motor vehicle is prohibited; hands-free use is allowed but remains a distraction.

Texting prohibition

Reading, typing, or sending text messages while driving a CMV is prohibited and can disqualify the driver.

Alcohol rule for CMV

A 0.04 BAC or higher is prohibited, and no alcohol may be consumed within 4 hours of coming on duty; refusal to test is a violation.

Unauthorized rider rule

Only authorized passengers may ride; friends, family, and hitchhikers may not ride in the passenger area or driver's compartment.

Forbidden hazmat items

Passengers may not bring explosives, fireworks, gasoline, propane, poisons, radioactive, or corrosive materials aboard the bus.

Suspicious package response

Do not touch or move the item; isolate the area, note details, and notify dispatch and law enforcement immediately.

Security awareness

Watch for unattended bags, unusual behavior, and anyone trying to board with a forbidden item; report concerns before departure.

No package transport

Never accept a package or freight from a passenger for transport unless your carrier specifically authorizes it.

PASS extinguisher method

Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side; only fight small fires with a clear exit.

Evacuation sequence

Stop safely, set the brake, shut off the engine, turn on hazards, evacuate through the nearest safe exit, and move passengers upwind.

Triangle placement

Place reflective triangles at the traffic side, 100 feet behind, and 100 feet ahead of the stopped bus, or as required by law.

Roof hatch operation

Rotate the handle, push the hatch up and out; verify it opens freely and its alarm sounds during the pre-trip inspection.

Post-trip walk-around

After the last run, check the exterior for damage and leaks and the interior for sleeping passengers, lost items, and hazards.

DVIR requirement

Complete a written driver vehicle inspection report at day's end listing defects; the carrier retains reports for 3 months.

Defect reporting

Report any safety-related defect immediately and do not operate the vehicle until it is repaired and certified.

Between-run servicing

Check fluids, tires, and fuel; clean and restock supplies; confirm emergency equipment is present and serviceable before the next run.