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NYC Transit Bus Operator study materials
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NYC Transit Bus Operator practice questions

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Question 1Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Under NYC Transit operating rules, what must a bus operator do before moving the bus away from a passenger stop?

  1. Sound the horn twice and pull out immediately
  2. Close the doors while passengers are still stepping aboard to save time
  3. Wait for the dispatcher to radio clearance
  4. Check mirrors and blind spots, ensure boarding passengers are seated or secure, then proceed Correct answer.

Explanation

Before leaving a stop the operator must verify the doorway area is clear, check both mirrors and the blind spot, and confirm boarding passengers have seated or steadied themselves. Pulling out without these checks creates a fall and struck-by hazard. Dispatcher clearance is not required at routine stops.

Question 2Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A passenger using a wheelchair is waiting at a stop with a lift-equipped bus. What is the operator's responsibility?

  1. Deploy the lift or ramp, secure the wheelchair, and offer the securement location Correct answer.
  2. Continue past the stop because the lift slows the schedule
  3. Require the passenger to transfer to a fixed seat before boarding
  4. Ask the passenger to board through the rear door unassisted

Explanation

Operators must deploy the lift or ramp for a passenger who needs it, position the wheelchair in the securement area, and apply the securement system. Skipping the stop or forcing an unassisted boarding denies required accessible service. A passenger may choose to transfer but cannot be required to do so.

Question 3Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

While driving, you notice smoke and the smell of burning insulation coming from the engine compartment. What is the safest immediate action?

  1. Continue to the next terminal to avoid blocking traffic
  2. Speed up to reach a fire hydrant faster
  3. Open the engine cover to inspect the source while driving
  4. Pull over safely, evacuate passengers away from the bus, and notify control Correct answer.

Explanation

Smoke with a burning smell signals a possible fire, so the operator should stop in a safe location, evacuate passengers well away from the vehicle, and notify control and emergency services. Continuing to drive or investigating while in motion endangers everyone aboard.

Question 4Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the primary purpose of a pre-trip inspection on a transit bus?

  1. To document passenger complaints from the prior run
  2. To identify defects such as brake, light, or tire problems before carrying passengers Correct answer.
  3. To confirm the farebox total matches the schedule
  4. To check that the destination sign matches the printed timetable

Explanation

The pre-trip inspection is a safety check of brakes, lights, tires, steering, mirrors, and emergency equipment before the bus enters service. Finding a defect on the lot prevents a breakdown or crash with passengers aboard. Fare and schedule checks are separate duties.

Question 5Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Approaching an intersection with a stale green light, what technique best reduces the risk of a red-light violation or collision?

  1. Accelerate to clear the intersection before the light changes
  2. Cover the brake and prepare to stop, scanning cross traffic and the signal Correct answer.
  3. Look only at the vehicle directly ahead
  4. Shift to neutral to coast through the intersection

Explanation

A stale green may change at any moment, so the operator should cover the brake, scan the signal and cross traffic, and be ready to stop. Accelerating to beat the light invites a broadside crash. Coasting in neutral reduces control.

Question 6Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

When must a bus operator yield the right-of-way to an approaching emergency vehicle with sirens and lights on?

  1. Never, because buses on route have priority
  2. Always, by pulling to the right edge and stopping until it passes Correct answer.
  3. Only when the emergency vehicle is directly behind the bus
  4. Only on streets with more than two lanes

Explanation

Operators must yield to emergency vehicles using lights and sirens by pulling as far right as practical and stopping until the vehicle passes. This applies regardless of lane count or direction of approach. Buses do not have priority over emergency responders.

Question 7Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A passenger becomes verbally aggressive and refuses to pay the fare. What is the appropriate operator response?

  1. Stop the bus in the travel lane and leave the vehicle
  2. Physically block the passenger from sitting down
  3. Stay calm, avoid escalation, and request assistance through control or police Correct answer.
  4. Argue with the passenger until the fare is paid

Explanation

Operators should de-escalate, avoid physical confrontation, and use the radio to request supervisory or police assistance. Physical blocking or arguing raises the risk of assault. Stopping in a travel lane creates a traffic hazard.

Question 8Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What does the posted clearance sign on a bridge or underpass tell a bus operator?

  1. The maximum passenger capacity for that road
  2. The maximum speed permitted on the bridge
  3. The minimum following distance required
  4. The maximum vehicle height allowed to pass underneath Correct answer.

Explanation

A clearance sign states the vertical distance from the road surface to the lowest structure overhead, so a vehicle taller than that figure cannot pass safely. Operators must know their bus height and avoid routes with insufficient clearance. The sign does not set capacity, following distance, or speed.

Question 9Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

In heavy rain, the bus begins to hydroplane. What should the operator do?

  1. Ease off the accelerator and hold the steering steady until traction returns Correct answer.
  2. Brake hard and steer sharply toward the shoulder
  3. Accelerate to push through the water
  4. Shift to a lower gear and apply the parking brake

Explanation

Hydroplaning occurs when tires ride on a film of water and lose contact with the pavement. The recovery is to ease off the accelerator, keep the steering steady, and avoid hard braking so the tires can regain contact gradually.

Question 10Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the correct procedure for a bus operator who must back the vehicle?

  1. Use mirrors and, where available, a spotter, and back only when it is safe and necessary Correct answer.
  2. Rely on the backup alarm to clear pedestrians
  3. Back without checking because the route requires it
  4. Back quickly to minimize time in reverse

Explanation

Backing a large bus is high-risk, so operators should back only when necessary and safe, use all mirrors, and rely on a spotter when one is available. The backup alarm warns others but does not clear the path.

Question 11Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A passenger reports a suspicious unattended package on the bus. What is the operator's best course of action?

  1. Move the package to the curb and continue the route
  2. Open the package to identify the contents
  3. Ask nearby passengers to guard the package while you keep driving
  4. Stop the bus in a safe place, evacuate, and notify control and police Correct answer.

Explanation

An unattended package is treated as a potential threat: stop safely, evacuate passengers away from the object, and notify control and law enforcement. Operators should never handle or open a suspicious item.

Question 12Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Which practice best helps an operator manage blind spots when changing lanes in a transit bus?

  1. Change lanes quickly to spend less time beside other vehicles
  2. Assume other drivers will see the bus because of its size
  3. Check the exterior mirrors, glance over the shoulder where feasible, and use turn signals early Correct answer.
  4. Rely only on the interior mirror

Explanation

Large buses have significant blind spots, so operators must combine exterior mirror checks, a shoulder glance where the design allows, and early signaling before a lane change. Relying on vehicle size or speed is unsafe.

Question 13Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the purpose of the air-brake system's low-pressure warning device on a transit bus?

  1. To indicate that the air conditioning is low on refrigerant
  2. To signal that the wheelchair lift needs servicing
  3. To alert the operator that brake system pressure has dropped to an unsafe level Correct answer.
  4. To warn that the fuel level is below reserve

Explanation

The low-pressure warning alerts the operator when air pressure in the brake system falls below a safe operating level, which can reduce braking ability. The operator should stop safely and report the defect. It has nothing to do with climate, fuel, or lift systems.

Question 14Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

When a bus is stopped at a railroad crossing and the gates begin to lower, what should the operator do?

  1. Drive around the gate before the train arrives
  2. Back up onto the tracks to clear the crossing
  3. Wave other traffic through the crossing first
  4. Remain stopped behind the gate line and wait for the gates to rise and the signal to clear Correct answer.

Explanation

Once warning devices activate, the operator must stay behind the stop line until the gates fully rise and the signal clears. Driving around gates or backing onto the tracks risks a catastrophic collision.

Question 15Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the recommended following distance for a transit bus under normal dry conditions?

  1. Two car lengths at highway speed
  2. One second behind the vehicle ahead
  3. A gap of at least four seconds behind the vehicle ahead Correct answer.
  4. Half a bus length regardless of speed

Explanation

A following gap of at least four seconds gives a heavy bus enough room to stop and accounts for its longer stopping distance. Fixed distances in car lengths do not scale with speed. One second is far too close at any speed.

Question 16Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A passenger falls and is injured while the bus is moving. What should the operator do first?

  1. Continue to the terminal and report the fall at the end of the shift
  2. Restart the route immediately after the passenger stands up
  3. Stop safely, check on the passenger, and notify control to request medical help Correct answer.
  4. Ask other passengers to decide whether an ambulance is needed

Explanation

The operator should stop in a safe location, assess the injured passenger, and radio control to arrange medical assistance and document the incident. Continuing the route delays care and complicates the report.

Question 17Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What does a flashing red traffic signal require a bus operator to do?

  1. Come to a full stop, yield, and proceed when safe, like a stop sign Correct answer.
  2. Stop only if other vehicles are present
  3. Treat it as a yield sign and slow without stopping
  4. Proceed without stopping if the way looks clear

Explanation

A flashing red signal functions as a stop sign: the operator must make a full stop, yield to cross traffic and pedestrians, and proceed only when it is safe. It is not a yield-only or proceed-without-stopping signal.

Question 18Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Why should an operator avoid abrupt steering inputs when driving a transit bus at speed?

  1. Abrupt steering voids the farebox record
  2. Passengers are required to remain standing at all times
  3. The steering wheel locks above 30 mph
  4. The bus has a high center of gravity and can roll over or lose control Correct answer.

Explanation

A loaded transit bus carries a high center of gravity, so sharp steering at speed can cause a rollover or loss of control. Smooth, gradual inputs keep the vehicle stable and protect standing passengers.

Question 19Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the operator's duty when a passenger asks for a transfer or directions at a stop the bus does not serve?

  1. Tell the passenger to exit without any information
  2. Ignore the question to stay on schedule
  3. Give accurate information or refer the passenger to the correct route or customer service Correct answer.
  4. Guess at a route to avoid a delay

Explanation

Operators are expected to provide accurate customer information or direct passengers to the right resource. Guessing or ignoring the request harms service quality and can strand riders.

Question 20Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

During a snowstorm, the operator notices the bus is sliding on ice at low speed. What is the safest response?

  1. Steer into the skid while easing off the accelerator and avoiding hard braking Correct answer.
  2. Apply the brakes fully and hold the wheel straight
  3. Turn off the engine to stop the slide
  4. Accelerate to regain traction

Explanation

On ice, the operator should ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction the rear of the bus is sliding while avoiding hard braking, which can worsen the skid. Accelerating or slamming the brakes reduces whatever traction remains.

Question 21Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What must an operator confirm about the securement of a mobility device before the bus departs?

  1. That the passenger has signed a liability waiver
  2. That the wheelchair is locked and the securement straps are properly attached Correct answer.
  3. That the passenger has paid an extra securement fee
  4. That the wheelchair is folded and stored in the aisle

Explanation

Before moving, the operator must ensure the wheelchair's brakes are set and the securement straps are correctly attached to the device. There is no extra fee or waiver for securement, and a wheelchair must not block the aisle.

Question 22Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

How should a bus operator respond to a red light at an intersection when an emergency vehicle with lights and siren is approaching from behind?

  1. Run the red light to clear the way immediately
  2. Stay stopped at the red light unless it is safe and legal to move aside, then yield when possible Correct answer.
  3. Ignore the emergency vehicle until the light turns green
  4. Stop in the middle of the intersection to let it pass

Explanation

The operator must not run a red light blindly even for an emergency vehicle. The correct response is to remain stopped unless there is a safe, legal way to move aside, then yield as soon as conditions allow. Stopping in the intersection blocks cross traffic.

Question 23Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the main hazard of tailgating a large truck in a transit bus?

  1. The bus will use less fuel when drafting
  2. The truck's mirrors will reflect sunlight into the bus
  3. The truck's rear blind area hides the bus and reduces the operator's view of the road ahead Correct answer.
  4. The truck will always brake more slowly than the bus

Explanation

Following a large truck closely puts the bus in the truck's rear no-zone and blocks the operator's forward view, reducing reaction time if traffic stops suddenly. Drafting saves no meaningful fuel and is unsafe.

Question 24Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What does a solid white line along the right edge of the roadway indicate to a bus operator?

  1. The centerline separating opposing traffic
  2. A pedestrian crossing zone ahead
  3. A lane reserved only for turning vehicles
  4. The right edge of the travel lane, marking the boundary with the shoulder Correct answer.

Explanation

A solid white edge line marks the right boundary of the travel lane and separates it from the shoulder. Centerlines separating opposing traffic are yellow, and pedestrian crossings are marked by crosswalk patterns.

Question 25Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

When is it appropriate for a bus operator to use the horn?

  1. To express frustration at a slow driver
  2. To request priority at a traffic light
  3. To warn others of imminent danger or as a brief signal of presence Correct answer.
  4. To announce departure from every stop

Explanation

The horn is a safety device used to warn others of danger or to signal presence when needed. Using it for frustration, routine departure, or to demand priority is misuse and can startle or provoke others.

Question 26Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Before pulling out of a bus stop into traffic, what is the most important reason a bus operator should check the left mirror and blind spot one final time?

  1. To confirm passengers have finished boarding
  2. To check that the rear door has fully closed
  3. To verify the destination sign is displaying correctly
  4. To detect a vehicle approaching in the adjacent lane Correct answer.

Explanation

A transit bus re-entering the travel lane creates a large, slow-moving obstacle, and a vehicle already in that lane has the right-of-way. A final mirror and blind-spot check confirms no overtaking vehicle is alongside before the operator moves out. The other checks matter but do not prevent a side-swipe during pull-out.

Question 27Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator is approaching a stop where a passenger in a wheelchair is waiting at the curb. Where should the operator position the bus?

  1. Several feet from the curb so the ramp has room to deploy
  2. In the traffic lane with hazard lights on
  3. Angled toward the curb to shorten the boarding distance
  4. As close to and parallel with the curb as safely possible Correct answer.

Explanation

Stopping close to and parallel with the curb shortens the ramp gap and reduces the chance the mobility device leaves the ramp edge or tips. It also keeps the bus aligned so the rear door area stays clear. Angling the bus or stopping far out increases the gap and the risk of a fall.

Question 28Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A passenger stands up and walks toward the front while the bus is still moving. What should the operator do?

  1. Brake firmly so the passenger sits back down
  2. Continue at the same speed and ignore the behavior
  3. Announce over the PA that passengers must remain seated until the bus stops Correct answer.
  4. Open the doors early to speed the passenger's exit

Explanation

The operator should remind passengers to stay seated or hold the stanchions until the bus comes to a complete stop. A firm brake application would increase the chance of a fall. Opening doors while moving is unsafe and against procedure.

Question 29Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What does a yield sign at an intersection require of a bus operator?

  1. Stop only if another vehicle is honking
  2. Proceed at the same speed because buses have priority
  3. Slow down and give the right-of-way to traffic already in the intersection Correct answer.
  4. Come to a complete stop before proceeding in all cases

Explanation

A yield sign requires the operator to slow and let cross traffic and vehicles already in the intersection go first, then proceed when clear. A full stop is only required when traffic conditions demand it. Buses do not have automatic priority over other traffic.

Question 30Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Why should a bus operator use the interior mirror in addition to the exterior mirrors?

  1. To read the route sign at the front
  2. To check tire pressure while driving
  3. To see vehicles directly behind the bus
  4. To monitor passengers and the aisle inside the bus Correct answer.

Explanation

The interior mirror gives the operator a view of the aisle and passenger area, which is essential for detecting falls, fare issues, and passenger movement. The exterior mirrors cover traffic alongside and behind the bus. Tire pressure and signage are not monitored through the interior mirror.

Question 31Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

When a bus operator is preparing to make a right turn at a corner, what is the key hazard to watch for?

  1. A cyclist or pedestrian entering the blind area on the right side Correct answer.
  2. Vehicles passing on the left
  3. A slippery patch on the left lane
  4. A change in the traffic signal timing

Explanation

Large right-turn blind areas on a transit bus can hide cyclists and pedestrians who move up alongside the bus. The operator should check the right mirror and blind spot and, where equipped, watch the right-side camera before turning. Traffic on the left is visible and less of a hidden hazard.

Question 32Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the correct action when a bus operator sees a pedestrian with a white cane waiting at a crosswalk?

  1. Wave the pedestrian across and accelerate
  2. Sound the horn to alert the pedestrian and proceed
  3. Stop and wait until the pedestrian has safely crossed Correct answer.
  4. Proceed because the pedestrian is not in the roadway yet

Explanation

A white cane indicates a person who is blind or has low vision, so the operator should stop and give the pedestrian time to cross. Honking can startle and disorient the pedestrian. Yielding is required regardless of whether the person has stepped off the curb.

Question 33Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator must make a lane change on a multi-lane avenue. Which combination best supports a safe lane change?

  1. Speed up and cut in ahead of the nearest car
  2. Signal, check mirrors, glance over the shoulder, and move smoothly when clear Correct answer.
  3. Signal and change lanes immediately to keep traffic flowing
  4. Rely only on the mirrors and skip the shoulder check

Explanation

A safe lane change uses the signal to communicate the intent, mirrors to check the sides and rear, and a shoulder glance to clear the blind spot before a smooth move. Signaling alone leaves the hidden area unchecked. Cutting in forces other drivers to react.

Question 34Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

While driving, a bus operator notices the brake pedal feels soft and travels closer to the floor than usual. What should the operator do?

  1. Pump the pedal and continue the route
  2. Increase following distance and keep driving
  3. Continue but report the condition at the end of the shift
  4. Safely stop the bus and report the brake problem before continuing Correct answer.

Explanation

A soft or low brake pedal can indicate a loss of hydraulic or air pressure and a serious braking defect. The operator should stop safely, secure the bus, and report the problem rather than continue with passengers aboard. Pumping or merely adjusting following distance does not fix a failing brake system.

Question 35Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the purpose of the safety zone markings at a bus stop near a crosswalk?

  1. To indicate a parking area for delivery vehicles
  2. To reserve space for the bus to load passengers clear of the crosswalk Correct answer.
  3. To show the operator where to make U-turns
  4. To mark where passengers should stand in the street

Explanation

Safety zone markings keep the bus stopped clear of the crosswalk so passengers can board and alight without stepping into the pedestrian path. They also keep the crosswalk unobstructed for people crossing. The markings are not a parking or turn area.

Question 36Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator is driving at night and an oncoming vehicle keeps its high beams on. What is the safest response?

  1. Flash high beams back to warn the driver
  2. Turn on the interior lights
  3. Look toward the right edge of the lane and reduce speed Correct answer.
  4. Close one eye to protect night vision

Explanation

Looking toward the right edge of the lane avoids the glare while keeping the bus centered, and reducing speed buys reaction time while vision is impaired. Flashing back increases the glare for both drivers. Interior lights would worsen the operator's night vision.

Question 37Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

When a bus operator must stop on a narrow street to let passengers off, what should the operator do to reduce risk?

  1. Pull as close to the curb as possible and stop only briefly Correct answer.
  2. Stop in the intersection to keep the crosswalk clear
  3. Stop in the travel lane with hazard lights on
  4. Stop with the rear of the bus blocking the lane

Explanation

Stopping close to the curb keeps the bus out of the travel lane and lets passengers step directly onto the sidewalk. Stopping in the lane or intersection exposes passengers and other traffic to added risk. The stop should be brief and followed by a careful pull-out.

Question 38Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What does a flashing yellow traffic signal tell a bus operator?

  1. Stop completely before proceeding
  2. Proceed with caution after yielding to traffic and pedestrians Correct answer.
  3. The signal is out of service and may be ignored
  4. Speed up to clear the intersection

Explanation

A flashing yellow signal means the operator may proceed only with caution, yielding to cross traffic and pedestrians. It does not require a full stop unless conditions demand it. The signal is functioning and must be obeyed.

Question 39Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A passenger asks the operator a detailed question about a transfer while the bus is moving in traffic. What is the best response?

  1. Give a brief answer and direct the passenger to ask again at a safe stop Correct answer.
  2. Turn around to answer fully while driving
  3. Stop the bus in the lane to answer
  4. Ignore the passenger until the end of the line

Explanation

The operator's first duty is controlling the bus, so a brief answer followed by fuller help at a safe stop keeps attention on the road. Turning around or stopping in the travel lane creates a hazard. Ignoring the passenger is poor service.

Question 40Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Before opening the front door at a stop, what should the operator verify?

  1. That the bus is fully stopped and positioned close to the curb Correct answer.
  2. That the destination sign has changed
  3. That the farebox is empty
  4. That the next traffic light is green

Explanation

Doors should be opened only after the bus is fully stopped and positioned close to the curb so passengers step onto the sidewalk safely. Farebox status, signal color, and signage do not govern door operation. Opening doors while still rolling risks a fall.

Question 41Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator is caught in dense fog and visibility drops sharply. What is the safest action?

  1. Maintain speed to clear the fog quickly
  2. Slow down, use low-beam headlights, and increase following distance Correct answer.
  3. Turn on high beams for maximum visibility
  4. Follow the taillights of the vehicle ahead closely

Explanation

In fog, slowing down, using low beams, and increasing the following distance gives the operator time to react to what appears suddenly. High beams reflect off the fog and reduce visibility. Following another vehicle closely removes the space needed to stop.

Question 42Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the operator's responsibility when a passenger using a mobility device boards but the securement area is already occupied by a stroller?

  1. Allow the stroller to remain and secure the mobility device in the aisle
  2. Ask the stroller user to fold and move the stroller so the securement area is available Correct answer.
  3. Refuse to board the passenger and continue the route
  4. Ask the mobility device user to wait for the next bus

Explanation

The securement area is reserved for mobility devices, so the operator should politely ask the stroller user to fold the stroller and move so the wheelchair can be secured. Securing a device in the aisle blocks egress and is unsafe. Refusing the passenger or making them wait violates the priority the securement area carries.

Question 43Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator observes smoke coming from under the dashboard. What is the first action?

  1. Open the hood to look for the source
  2. Spray water on the dashboard
  3. Continue to the next stop and investigate there
  4. Stop safely, evacuate passengers, and notify dispatch Correct answer.

Explanation

Smoke from the dashboard may signal an electrical or engine fire, so the operator should stop in a safe place, get passengers off, and call dispatch. Opening the hood can feed oxygen to a fire. Water on electrical components is dangerous.

Question 44Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

What is the meaning of the amber warning light on a transit bus's air-brake system?

  1. A fault has been detected and the system should be checked Correct answer.
  2. The brake pads are new
  3. The air pressure is low and the bus should be stopped
  4. The parking brake is fully released

Explanation

An amber warning indicates a detected fault or abnormal condition that requires the system to be checked. A low-pressure condition is typically shown by a red warning and an audible alarm. The amber light is not a confirmation that the parking brake is released.

Question 45Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator is approaching a steep downgrade on the route. What is the best practice for controlling speed?

  1. Accelerate at the top to build momentum
  2. Select a lower gear before the descent and use engine braking with the service brakes Correct answer.
  3. Ride the brakes continuously all the way down
  4. Shift to neutral and coast down

Explanation

Selecting a lower gear before the downgrade lets engine braking help hold speed, with the service brakes used in controlled applications. Coasting in neutral removes engine braking and is unsafe. Continuous brake riding can overheat and fade the brakes.

Question 46Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator is involved in a collision with a parked car and no one is injured. What is the correct sequence of actions?

  1. Continue the route and call the depot later
  2. Move the car and drive away without reporting
  3. Leave the scene and report at the end of the shift
  4. Stop, secure the scene, exchange information, and notify dispatch and police as required Correct answer.

Explanation

The operator must stop, secure the scene, exchange required information, and notify dispatch and police according to procedure. Leaving the scene of a collision is unlawful. Continuing the route or failing to report is a serious violation.

Question 47Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A passenger becomes ill and vomits in the aisle while the bus is between stops. What should the operator do?

  1. Stop safely, check on the passenger, and follow the biohazard cleanup procedure Correct answer.
  2. Continue to the next scheduled stop and clean up at the end of the line
  3. Ask the ill passenger to leave the bus immediately
  4. Hand cleaning supplies to nearby passengers

Explanation

Body-fluid cleanup requires the operator to stop safely, check on the passenger, and follow the biohazard procedure with proper supplies and protective equipment. Continuing to the end of the line leaves a slip and contamination hazard. Handing supplies to passengers or ejecting the ill person is unsafe and inappropriate.

Question 48Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

Two passengers begin shouting at each other and one raises a fist. What is the operator's best course of action?

  1. Stop the bus safely, use a calm voice, and request assistance if the dispute escalates Correct answer.
  2. Continue driving and raise speed to reach the next stop faster
  3. Ignore the dispute and keep the doors closed
  4. Step into the aisle to physically separate them

Explanation

The operator should stop safely, speak calmly to defuse the dispute, and call for assistance if it escalates. Physically separating passengers puts the operator at risk. Speeding up or ignoring the conflict lets it grow with passengers aboard.

Question 49Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator's route requires a tight left turn where the rear wheels will track inside the front wheels. What technique best prevents the rear wheels from striking the curb?

  1. Turn sharply and brake hard mid-turn
  2. Accelerate through the turn to shorten the time
  3. Begin the turn later and check the left mirror through the turn Correct answer.
  4. Begin the turn early and swing wide to the right first

Explanation

Because the rear wheels track inside the front wheels, the operator should begin the turn later and monitor the left mirror so the rear of the bus clears the curb. Swinging wide into another lane creates a new hazard. Accelerating or braking hard mid-turn upsets the bus.

Question 50Bus Operator knowledge, skills, and abilities (source does not enumerate domains)

A bus operator reports for a shift and must complete the pre-trip inspection. Which item belongs on the required walk-around check before pulling out of the depot?

  1. Confirming the destination sign font matches the depot style guide
  2. Checking the farebox coin vault for a full load of change
  3. Testing the passenger Wi-Fi signal strength at the terminal
  4. Verifying tire condition and tread depth on each wheel position Correct answer.

Explanation

A pre-trip walk-around covers safety-critical items such as tires, wheels, lights, mirrors, and body damage. Tire condition and tread depth directly affect braking and steering, so they must be verified before the bus enters service. Farebox cash, sign fonts, and Wi-Fi are not part of the safety inspection.