NM CDL School Bus study guide
NM CDL School Bus · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The New Mexico CDL School Bus endorsement - often written as the (S) endorsement on a New Mexico Commercial Driver's License - is the credential a driver needs to legally operate a school bus carrying students. It is aimed at people who already hold or are working toward a New Mexico CDL and who intend to drive for a school district, charter school, or contracted student-transportation operator. The NM CDL School Bus study guide has 6 sections and about 2,357 words.
01Driving Safely with Passengers: Loading, Unloading, Railroad Crossings, and Student Management
This domain tests the operational core of school bus driving: controlling the 10-foot danger zone around the bus, moving students safely at stops, crossing railroad tracks without exception, and keeping order without letting the ride become distracted. Position the bus so students do not have to cross the roadway when an alternative exists.
454 words, about 2 min02Vehicle Inspection: Pre-Trip, En-Route, Post-Trip, and the Child Check
This domain tests whether you can verify that a school bus is safe before it carries students, recognize defects while driving, and complete the post-trip child check that is unique to school bus operations. The seven-step inspection covers the engine compartment, exterior lights, walk-around, steering and suspension, brakes, tires, and the driver's compartment.
375 words, about 2 min03Loading and Emergency Exit Procedures
This domain tests the sequence for loading and unloading students and the decisions required to evacuate a school bus quickly and account for everyone. Stop in a safe position, set the parking brake, and place the transmission in neutral or park according to the bus manufacturer's procedure.
385 words, about 2 min04Transporting Students and Special Safety Considerations
This domain tests the judgment needed for students with disabilities, route hazards, distractions, weather, and the duty to protect children who cannot protect themselves. Know each student's individual education or transportation plan before the route.
339 words, about 2 min05Commercial Driver's License Requirements
This domain tests the licensing foundation for school bus drivers: the correct CDL class, the passenger and school bus endorsements, medical self-certification, and the tests required before driving with students. A school bus is usually a Class B vehicle because its gross vehicle weight rating is 26,001 pounds or more.
388 words, about 2 min06Endorsements and Disqualifications
This domain tests what the school bus endorsement authorizes, what restrictions may appear on a CDL, and the offenses that can suspend or permanently revoke commercial driving privileges. The school bus endorsement authorizes driving a school bus with students aboard after all other requirements are met.
416 words, about 2 min