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NJ CDL Passenger study materials
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NJ CDL Passenger practice questions

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Question 1Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

Before a passenger-carrying trip, the driver must inspect the emergency exits. Which condition requires the vehicle to be placed out of service until corrected?

  1. An emergency exit window whose release mechanism is missing Correct answer.
  2. A rear emergency door that latches securely after being closed
  3. An emergency roof hatch that opens outward with a firm push
  4. An emergency exit door that opens only when the release handle is lifted

Explanation

Every emergency exit must have a working release mechanism so passengers can escape without tools or special knowledge. A missing release mechanism makes the exit unusable and is a safety defect that must be repaired before the vehicle carries passengers.

Question 2Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection of a passenger bus, you check the service door. What should you confirm about its operation?

  1. It can be forced open by hand from the outside
  2. It opens and closes fully and the warning device works when it is open Correct answer.
  3. It stays slightly ajar so passengers can board quickly
  4. It locks automatically whenever the engine is running

Explanation

The service door must open and close smoothly and completely, and the door warning indicator or buzzer must alert the driver when the door is not fully closed. A door that does not seal or does not trigger the warning is unsafe for passenger operations.

Question 3Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are checking the tires on a passenger-carrying vehicle before departure. Which finding must be corrected before the trip?

  1. Cold inflation pressure matching the placard
  2. A tire with a visible cut exposing the cord Correct answer.
  3. Valve caps installed on all stems
  4. Tread depth of 6/32 inch on the steer tires

Explanation

A cut deep enough to expose the cord means the tire structure is damaged and the tire can fail under load. Tires with exposed cord, bulges, or other structural damage must be replaced before the vehicle is driven with passengers.

Question 4Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

When inspecting the brakes on a passenger vehicle equipped with air brakes, what does the low-air warning device check confirm?

  1. The parking brake releases automatically at low pressure
  2. The compressor builds pressure faster than it leaks
  3. The air dryer purges moisture at the correct interval
  4. A warning activates before pressure drops too low for safe braking Correct answer.

Explanation

The low-air warning must activate while there is still enough pressure to stop the vehicle safely, giving the driver time to react. If the warning comes on only after pressure is already dangerously low, the vehicle must be taken out of service.

Question 5Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

Which item belongs on the pre-trip inspection of the passenger compartment rather than the exterior walk-around?

  1. Mounting of the front license plate
  2. Operation of the passenger stop-request signal Correct answer.
  3. Condition of the windshield wiper blades
  4. Security of the battery hold-down

Explanation

The stop-request signal, along with seats, stanchions, and interior lighting, is part of the passenger compartment inspection. Exterior items such as wipers, battery mounting, and plates are checked during the walk-around.

Question 6Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

Before transporting passengers, you check the seats and stanchions. Which condition is a defect requiring correction?

  1. A seat back that returns to the upright position
  2. A grab rail that flexes loosely at its mounting bolts Correct answer.
  3. A floor covering that is fully secured
  4. A seat cushion with normal wear on the fabric

Explanation

Stanchions and grab rails must be firmly mounted so standing passengers can rely on them during stops and turns. A rail that moves at its mounts can fail and cause a fall, so it must be tightened or repaired before carrying passengers.

Question 7Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

What is the purpose of the pre-trip inspection report a commercial passenger driver completes?

  1. To list fuel purchases made during the trip
  2. To document defects found and confirm the vehicle's condition before operation Correct answer.
  3. To certify the driver's hours of service
  4. To record passenger counts for the day's route

Explanation

The pre-trip report records the inspection results and any defects discovered so they can be repaired and tracked. It documents that the driver checked the vehicle and provides a written record if a safety defect is found.

Question 8Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are about to drive a bus and notice the ABS warning light stays on after the engine starts. What is the correct action?

  1. Increase following distance and proceed as planned
  2. Report the defect and do not operate until it is repaired Correct answer.
  3. Pump the brake pedal several times to reset the light
  4. Continue the trip because ABS only affects wet roads

Explanation

An ABS warning light that remains on indicates an anti-lock brake system fault, and the vehicle must be reported and repaired before use. ABS affects steering control during hard braking, so operating with a known fault is not permitted.

Question 9Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection, you find the entrance stepwell light is burned out. How does this affect passenger safety?

  1. It reduces visibility for passengers boarding or exiting in low light Correct answer.
  2. It has no effect because daylight provides visibility
  3. It only matters for the driver's view of the mirror
  4. It disables the door interlock system

Explanation

Stepwell lighting helps passengers see the steps and the ground when boarding or exiting in darkness or bad weather. A burned-out stepwell light increases the risk of trips and falls and should be repaired before night operation.

Question 10Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

When checking the emergency exits on a passenger vehicle, what should you verify about the exit instruction markings?

  1. They are legible and clearly identify how to open the exit Correct answer.
  2. They are printed only in English
  3. They are covered by advertising panels
  4. They are located only on the exterior

Explanation

Emergency exit markings must be legible and clearly explain how to operate the exit so passengers can escape quickly in an emergency. Markings that are faded, obscured, or missing must be restored before the vehicle is used.

Question 11Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are inspecting a bus with air brakes and perform the static leak test. What are you confirming?

  1. That the compressor belt is properly tensioned
  2. That the governor cuts out at the correct pressure
  3. That air pressure does not drop beyond the allowable rate with the brakes applied Correct answer.
  4. That the safety valve releases at maximum pressure

Explanation

The static leak test checks that the air system holds pressure with the brakes applied, confirming there is no significant leak. Excessive pressure loss means the brakes could fade or fail, so the vehicle must be repaired before service.

Question 12Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

While inspecting the exterior of a passenger bus, you notice the rear emergency door does not latch securely. What is the appropriate response?

  1. Secure it with tape and continue the route
  2. Assign a passenger to hold the door closed
  3. Tag the vehicle out of service until the latch is repaired Correct answer.
  4. Continue if the route is short

Explanation

A rear emergency door that will not latch is both a safety and security defect and must be repaired before the vehicle carries passengers. Improvised fixes do not restore the door's designed function and are not acceptable.

Question 13Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

What should you check about the mirrors on a passenger-carrying vehicle during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. That they are clean, unbroken, and adjusted to give the required fields of view Correct answer.
  2. That they are adjusted for the tallest driver
  3. That they are tinted to reduce glare
  4. That they are folded in to reduce wind resistance

Explanation

Mirrors must be clean, free of cracks, and adjusted so the driver can see the required areas around the vehicle, including the sides and front crossover zone. Poor mirror adjustment or damage creates blind spots that are especially dangerous around passengers.

Question 14Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are checking the heating and defrosting system on a passenger bus before a cold-weather trip. Why is this check important for passenger safety?

  1. It reduces engine noise in the cabin
  2. It improves fuel economy on the route
  3. It keeps the driver's windshield clear and the passenger compartment at a safe temperature Correct answer.
  4. It is required only for school buses

Explanation

A working defroster keeps the windshield clear so the driver can see, and a working heater keeps the passenger compartment at a safe temperature. Failure of either system can impair visibility or endanger passengers in cold conditions.

Question 15Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you find a crack in the windshield in the driver's line of sight. What is the correct action?

  1. Cover it with tape and proceed
  2. Report it and have it repaired before operating Correct answer.
  3. Ignore it if wipers clear the glass
  4. Continue if the crack is shorter than a dollar bill

Explanation

A crack in the driver's line of sight obstructs vision and can spread, so it must be repaired or the windshield replaced before operation. Taping or ignoring the defect does not restore clear visibility.

Question 16Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

When inspecting the baggage compartments of a passenger bus, what should you confirm?

  1. That doors latch securely and contents cannot shift into the passenger area Correct answer.
  2. That they are loaded to maximum capacity
  3. That they contain emergency equipment
  4. That compartments are left unlocked for access

Explanation

Baggage compartment doors must latch securely so they do not open in transit, and cargo must be secured so it cannot shift or enter the passenger compartment. Unsecured cargo can strike passengers or affect vehicle handling.

Question 17Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are inspecting the steering system of a passenger bus. Which finding indicates a defect?

  1. Slight play within the manufacturer's specification
  2. More than the allowed free play before the wheels respond Correct answer.
  3. Steering wheel centered while driving straight
  4. Power steering assist that engages smoothly

Explanation

Steering free play beyond the manufacturer's limit means the driver cannot control the wheels precisely and the system must be repaired. Normal small play within specification is acceptable, but excessive play is a defect.

Question 18Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

A driver completes the pre-trip inspection and finds no defects. What is the required documentation outcome?

  1. No report is needed if no defects are found
  2. The report is filed only after the trip
  3. Only the mechanic signs the report
  4. A report is completed certifying the vehicle was inspected and is safe Correct answer.

Explanation

Even when no defects are found, the driver completes a report certifying that the inspection was performed and the vehicle is in safe operating condition. The report creates a record of the inspection and supports accountability.

Question 19Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

While checking the exhaust system on a passenger bus, you notice soot around a joint and hear a hissing sound. What does this suggest?

  1. A possible exhaust leak that could allow carbon monoxide into the cabin Correct answer.
  2. Normal operation of the turbocharger
  3. A need to increase engine idle speed
  4. A properly sealed exhaust connection

Explanation

Soot streaks and hissing at an exhaust joint indicate a leak, which can allow carbon monoxide to enter the passenger compartment. Exhaust leaks must be repaired before carrying passengers because carbon monoxide is odorless and dangerous.

Question 20Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During a pre-trip inspection of a bus with air brakes, the pressure builds very slowly and the low-air warning stays on. What is the most appropriate conclusion?

  1. The brakes will work once the vehicle moves
  2. A compressor or charging system defect exists and the vehicle must not be operated Correct answer.
  3. The warning device is overly sensitive and can be ignored
  4. The system is functioning normally during warm-up

Explanation

Slow pressure build with a persistent low-air warning points to a compressor or charging system fault that can leave the vehicle without adequate braking pressure. The vehicle must be removed from service until the fault is corrected.

Question 21Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are inspecting a passenger bus and find that the emergency exit buzzer sounds continuously even with all exits closed. What is the correct interpretation?

  1. There is a fault in the exit monitoring system that must be diagnosed before operation Correct answer.
  2. The buzzer is a normal indicator of engine start
  3. The buzzer can be disconnected for the trip
  4. The exits are all properly secured

Explanation

A continuous exit buzzer with all exits closed indicates a fault in the monitoring circuit, which could also fail to warn when an exit actually opens. The system must be diagnosed and repaired so the warning remains reliable.

Question 22Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

A driver finds that the brake pedal on a hydraulic-brake passenger vehicle feels spongy and travels close to the floor. What is the most likely cause and required action?

  1. Normal pedal feel; operate as scheduled
  2. Worn tires; replace tires and proceed
  3. Cold weather; warm the engine and proceed
  4. Air in the hydraulic system or a fluid leak; repair before operation Correct answer.

Explanation

A spongy pedal that travels far suggests air in the hydraulic lines or a fluid leak, both of which reduce braking effectiveness. The vehicle must be repaired and the brakes tested before carrying passengers.

Question 23Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you notice the passenger seats are anchored but one seat frame is cracked at a mounting point. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Remove the vehicle from service until the seat is repaired Correct answer.
  2. Reduce passenger load and proceed
  3. Operate if the seat is in the rear of the bus
  4. Place a warning label on the seat and continue

Explanation

A cracked seat frame at a mounting point can fail in a crash or sudden stop, so the seat must be repaired before the vehicle carries passengers. Location in the vehicle or reduced load does not make a structurally damaged seat safe.

Question 24Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are checking the tires and wheels on a passenger bus and find a lug nut missing on a rear dual assembly. What is the correct response?

  1. Note it for the next scheduled service
  2. Replace the missing nut and check torque before operation Correct answer.
  3. Continue because other nuts hold the wheel
  4. Tighten the remaining nuts and proceed

Explanation

A missing lug nut reduces clamping force and can lead to wheel loss, so it must be replaced and the assembly torqued to specification before operation. Deferring the repair or relying on remaining nuts is unsafe.

Question 25Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

On a passenger bus, what is the primary purpose of the pre-trip inspection walk-around before the first trip of the day?

  1. To log the driver's hours of service for the day
  2. To calculate the fuel cost for the planned route
  3. To confirm the passenger count matches the ticket manifest
  4. To detect defects that could cause a breakdown or crash before passengers are exposed to risk Correct answer.

Explanation

The walk-around is a systematic check of the vehicle's critical systems and components so that defects are found and corrected before the bus carries passengers. It is a safety function, not an administrative or cost-planning task, and it is performed before the vehicle moves.

Question 26Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection of a passenger bus, which item is checked as part of the exterior walk-around rather than the interior compartment?

  1. The adjustment of the driver's seat
  2. The condition and mounting of the rear emergency door Correct answer.
  3. The presence of the fire extinguisher bracket inside
  4. The operation of the interior dome lights

Explanation

The exterior walk-around covers components visible from outside the bus, such as doors, lights, tires, and body panels. The rear emergency door and its mounting are examined from outside as part of that circuit.

Question 27Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

When checking the service door of a passenger bus during the pre-trip inspection, which condition must be corrected before carrying passengers?

  1. The door opens and closes with the control and latches fully Correct answer.
  2. The door hinge pins are painted the same color as the body
  3. The door glass has a small manufacturer's decal in the corner
  4. The door seal shows the normal light compression line

Explanation

The service door must operate smoothly from the driver's control and latch securely when closed, because a door that fails to latch can open in transit and allow passengers to fall out. Any binding, incomplete closing, or failure to latch is a defect that must be fixed before the trip.

Question 28Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

While inspecting a passenger bus, you find the stop arm and red flashing school-bus-style warning lamps are inoperable on a vehicle required to have them. What is the correct action?

  1. Cover the lamps so passengers are not confused
  2. Operate the route and report the problem at the end of the shift
  3. Use hand signals in place of the warning lamps
  4. Place the bus out of service until the warning system is repaired Correct answer.

Explanation

Required warning devices must function before the vehicle is dispatched, so an inoperable stop arm or warning lamp system makes the bus unserviceable. The defect must be repaired and the vehicle cleared before it carries passengers.

Question 29Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

What should you confirm about the passenger seats and their attachments during the pre-trip inspection?

  1. That each seat is positioned to face forward only
  2. That every seat has a working reading light
  3. That the seat upholstery matches the fleet color standard
  4. That each seat is securely fastened to the floor and the seat cushions are intact Correct answer.

Explanation

Seats must be anchored firmly so they do not break loose in a sudden stop or crash, and cushions must be sound so passengers are not injured by exposed frames. Loose or damaged seat mountings are a defect requiring correction.

Question 30Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you check the emergency exit windows on a passenger bus. What should you verify?

  1. That each exit window is locked with a padlock for security
  2. That each exit window is painted with the fleet number
  3. That each exit opens freely and its release mechanism works without tools Correct answer.
  4. That each exit window has a tinted film applied

Explanation

Emergency exit windows must be operable by passengers using the release handle without tools, because a stuck or locked exit can trap occupants in an emergency. The inspection confirms free operation and correct release function.

Question 31Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

What is checked when verifying the passenger compartment handrails and stanchions on a bus?

  1. That they are secure and free of sharp edges or loose fittings Correct answer.
  2. That they are numbered sequentially along the aisle
  3. That they are removable for cleaning
  4. That they are polished to a mirror finish

Explanation

Handrails and stanchions support standing passengers, so they must be firmly attached and free of sharp edges or loose parts that could cause injury or fail under load. Cosmetic condition is secondary to structural security.

Question 32Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

Before departure, you check the bus's first-aid kit and fire extinguisher. Which condition meets the requirement?

  1. The extinguisher is mounted loosely so it can be grabbed quickly
  2. The extinguisher gauge shows full charge and the first-aid kit is sealed and stocked Correct answer.
  3. The first-aid kit contains only bandages
  4. The extinguisher was last inspected two years ago

Explanation

The fire extinguisher must show a full charge on its gauge and be properly secured, and the first-aid kit must be complete and sealed so supplies are usable in an emergency. Missing supplies or a discharged extinguisher are defects.

Question 33Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are checking the tires on a passenger bus and find one tire with tread depth below the minimum and visible cord showing. What is the correct action?

  1. Inflate the tire to the maximum sidewall pressure and continue
  2. Note the tire in the post-trip report and depart
  3. Remove the bus from service until the tire is replaced Correct answer.
  4. Reduce speed on the route to compensate for the tire

Explanation

A tire worn below the minimum tread depth or showing cord is structurally unsafe and at high risk of failure at highway speed, especially with a full passenger load. The bus must not be dispatched until the tire is replaced.

Question 34Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

While inspecting a bus with air brakes, you note the air pressure drops from 120 psi to 100 psi in one minute with the engine off and the brakes released. What does this indicate?

  1. A properly functioning air dryer cycle
  2. An air leak that must be repaired before the trip Correct answer.
  3. Normal pressure loss from cooling of the system
  4. That the compressor is overcharging the system

Explanation

With the engine off and brakes released, air pressure should hold steady; a loss of about 20 psi in a minute signals a leak in the system. Leaks can lead to brake failure under repeated use, so the vehicle must be repaired before it is dispatched.

Question 35Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's backup alarm and horn. What should you confirm?

  1. Both sound clearly when activated from the driver's position Correct answer.
  2. The horn works only with the engine running
  3. The backup alarm sounds only when the parking brake is set
  4. The horn is louder than the backup alarm

Explanation

The horn and backup alarm are warning devices that must be audible and function when activated, so pedestrians and other drivers are alerted. Testing them from the driver's position confirms they operate as designed.

Question 36Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You inspect a passenger bus and find the left rear turn signal does not flash. How should this be handled?

  1. Report it after the last trip of the day
  2. Repair the signal before the bus is used to carry passengers Correct answer.
  3. Limit the route to right turns only
  4. Depart and use hand signals for left turns

Explanation

Turn signals are required safety equipment, and a nonfunctioning signal makes the bus noncompliant and unsafe in traffic. It must be repaired before the vehicle is dispatched with passengers.

Question 37Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

When checking the emergency roof hatch on a passenger bus, what should you verify?

  1. That it opens only with a special tool
  2. That it opens from inside and its latch and warning buzzer work Correct answer.
  3. That it is sealed shut with caulk to prevent leaks
  4. That it has a padlock to deter tampering

Explanation

The roof hatch is an escape route and must open from inside without special tools, with its latch functioning and its warning buzzer alerting the driver if it is opened. Sealing or locking it defeats its emergency purpose.

Question 38Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's suspension and find a broken leaf spring on the rear axle. What is the correct action?

  1. Inflate the tires to compensate for the sag
  2. Lower the passenger load and depart
  3. Continue the route if the bus rides level
  4. Place the bus out of service until the spring is replaced Correct answer.

Explanation

A broken leaf spring compromises axle location and load support, and can cause loss of control, especially with a full passenger load. The vehicle must be taken out of service until the suspension is repaired.

Question 39Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

While inspecting a bus, you find the passenger compartment emergency exit buzzer does not sound when an exit is opened. Why is this a defect requiring correction?

  1. The buzzer provides power to the exit lights
  2. The buzzer confirms the door is locked
  3. The driver would not be alerted that an exit has been opened while the bus is moving Correct answer.
  4. The buzzer is needed to announce stops to passengers

Explanation

The exit warning buzzer alerts the driver when an emergency exit is opened, which could happen while the bus is in motion and endanger passengers. Without it, the driver may not know an exit is open and cannot stop safely.

Question 40Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are checking the exhaust system on a passenger bus and find a rust hole in the muffler ahead of the passenger compartment. What is the risk?

  1. The air brakes will lose pressure
  2. Exhaust gases could enter the passenger compartment and endanger occupants Correct answer.
  3. The bus will use less fuel
  4. The engine will run too cool on the route

Explanation

A hole in the exhaust ahead of the passenger area allows carbon monoxide and other gases to enter the cabin, which is a serious health hazard to passengers and the driver. The system must be repaired before the bus is used.

Question 41Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's mirrors. Which finding is a defect?

  1. The mirror brackets are tight and free of rust-through
  2. The mirrors are adjusted for the driver's seated position
  3. The convex mirror shows a wide field of view
  4. A crossover mirror is cracked so the area beside the front bumper cannot be seen Correct answer.

Explanation

Mirrors must give the driver a clear view of the areas around the bus, including the blind spots near the front and sides. A cracked mirror that blocks the crossover view removes a critical field of vision and must be replaced.

Question 42Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are inspecting a bus and find the speedometer and tachometer are inoperative. How does this affect the trip?

  1. The bus should not be dispatched until the instruments are repaired Correct answer.
  2. The instruments are not required on passenger vehicles
  3. The trip may proceed because the GPS shows speed
  4. The trip may proceed if the driver estimates speed by traffic flow

Explanation

The speedometer is required equipment, and an inoperative instrument leaves the driver unable to monitor speed accurately, which is a serious risk with passengers aboard. The vehicle should be repaired before dispatch.

Question 43Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are checking the bus's electrical system during the pre-trip inspection and find the battery hold-down bracket is loose. Why must this be corrected?

  1. The headlights will be too bright
  2. The battery will charge too quickly
  3. The alternator will overheat
  4. A loose battery can shift and cause a short or fire Correct answer.

Explanation

The battery must be secured so it cannot move and contact metal or chafe its cables, which can cause a short circuit or fire. A loose hold-down is a defect that must be tightened or repaired before the trip.

Question 44Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you check the bus's wheelchair lift. Which condition must be corrected before use?

  1. The lift has a manufacturer's label on the frame
  2. The lift is stowed in the luggage bay
  3. The lift platform is painted the same color as the bus
  4. The lift operates smoothly with the interlock preventing the bus from moving when deployed Correct answer.

Explanation

A wheelchair lift must operate correctly, and its interlock must prevent the bus from moving while the lift is deployed so a passenger cannot be injured. Any malfunction or interlock failure must be corrected before the lift is used.

Question 45Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You inspect a passenger bus with hydraulic brakes and find the brake fluid level below the minimum mark with no visible leak. What is the correct action?

  1. Top off the reservoir and depart immediately
  2. Pump the pedal several times and depart
  3. Ignore it because the brakes still work
  4. Investigate the cause and repair before dispatch Correct answer.

Explanation

Low brake fluid can indicate a leak in the hydraulic system or worn brake components, and topping off without finding the cause can hide a serious defect. The system must be checked and repaired before the bus carries passengers.

Question 46Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you find the bus's rear emergency door is equipped with a padlock. What should you do?

  1. Replace the padlock with a combination lock
  2. Leave the lock if the driver has a key
  3. Leave the lock and note it in the report
  4. Remove the lock so the exit can be opened from inside without tools Correct answer.

Explanation

Emergency exits must be openable from inside without tools or keys, so any lock that prevents this is a defect that must be removed. A padlock can trap passengers in an emergency and is not permitted.

Question 47Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are inspecting a bus with air brakes and notice the low-air warning buzzer and light fail to activate as pressure drops below the required threshold. Why is this a critical defect?

  1. The driver would not be warned before air pressure falls low enough to reduce braking Correct answer.
  2. The compressor will run continuously
  3. The parking brake will not release
  4. The air dryer will stop cycling

Explanation

The low-air warning alerts the driver before pressure drops to a level where braking force is reduced and the spring brakes may apply unexpectedly. Without the warning, the driver could lose braking ability with no advance notice, so the vehicle must not be dispatched.

Question 48Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During the pre-trip inspection you find the bus's passenger door interlock allows the bus to move with the door open. What is the correct action?

  1. Take the bus out of service until the interlock is repaired Correct answer.
  2. Operate the route if the driver keeps the door closed manually
  3. Disconnect the interlock so the bus can move freely
  4. Continue and report the defect after the shift

Explanation

The door interlock is designed to prevent the bus from moving while the service door is open, protecting passengers from falling out. If the interlock fails, the vehicle must be repaired before it is used to carry passengers.

Question 49Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

You are inspecting a bus and find the fuel tank straps are loose and the tank moves slightly. Why must this be corrected before the trip?

  1. The fuel will freeze in cold weather
  2. A shifting fuel tank can rupture or cause a fire in a crash or sudden stop Correct answer.
  3. The engine will idle too high
  4. The fuel gauge will read incorrectly

Explanation

Fuel tanks must be securely mounted so they cannot shift, chafe, or rupture, which could release fuel and create a fire hazard. Loose straps are a defect that must be corrected before the bus is dispatched.

Question 50Passenger vehicle pre-trip inspection and vehicle safety

During your pre-trip inspection of a passenger bus, you check the service door glass and the glass on the driver's side window. Which finding requires the bus to be placed out of service before carrying passengers?

  1. A light scratch on the rear passenger window that does not affect visibility or the structural integrity of the glass
  2. A crack in the windshield that lies outside the driver's normal sweep area but does not interfere with the driver's view
  3. A small stone chip in the passenger door glass located well below the driver's line of sight to the right mirror
  4. A star-shaped break in the driver's side window that obstructs the view of the left outside mirror Correct answer.

Explanation

Any crack, break, or damage to glass that interferes with the driver's ability to see the mirrors, the road, or traffic is a defect that must be corrected before the trip. Damage outside the driver's critical viewing area that does not obstruct vision may be noted but does not by itself make the bus unsafe. The deciding factor is whether the driver's field of view is obstructed.