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School buses

Selected knowledge practice, not a complete licensing course or practical training.

School buses

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Question 1 of 64
  1. 1. For a new CDL school-bus endorsement, what must an applicant do in addition to the school-bus knowledge test?
  2. 2. A child disappears beside your stopped bus. Which area needs attention?
  3. 3. You take over a school bus from a taller driver. What should happen before you operate it?
  4. 4. What should properly adjusted outside flat mirrors show on a school bus?
  5. 5. A vehicle looks small in a school bus's convex mirror. What must the driver remember?
  6. 6. During a mirror check, which view belongs in the outside convex mirrors?
  7. 7. Which mirror system helps reveal a child directly in front of the bus below normal direct sight?
  8. 8. How should crossover-mirror coverage meet the area you can see directly ahead?
  9. 9. Can the overhead inside mirror replace exterior checks before you leave a student stop?
  10. 10. A parent asks you to move tomorrow's bus stop to another driveway. What should you do?
  11. 11. As you slow for a student stop, when should you check for children and traffic?
  12. 12. A Minnesota pupil stop requires alternating warning lamps on a road posted at 40 mph. What is the minimum advance distance for the amber lamps?
  13. 13. For a Minnesota pupil pickup using the eight-light system, what initial stopping position does the handbook recommend relative to waiting students?
  14. 14. Before loading pupils into a Minnesota Type C school bus, what does the operating rule require for the bus and transmission?
  15. 15. The red loading lights are flashing. What must you confirm before fully opening the door and signaling children to approach?
  16. 16. At the designated school unloading area, how should students leave once the bus is stopped and secure?
  17. 17. At the school's loading area, you saw six children but counted five boarding. What is the correct response?
  18. 18. Everyone you first saw at the stop is seated. Why check the mirrors again before departure?
  19. 19. At a Minnesota pickup using the red signals and stop arm, when may those warnings be ended?
  20. 20. At a designated school drop-off area, when should students leave their seats?
  21. 21. A student drops a notebook close to a bus wheel. What should the student do?
  22. 22. Why watch a student's clothing and backpack while the student steps off?
  23. 23. A student leaving a Minnesota school bus must cross the road in front. Where should the student wait for the driver's signal?
  24. 24. No bus patrol or monitor is guiding a pupil across the road. Under Minnesota's driver-signal crossing method, what must the pupil do?
  25. 25. At the school's unloading area, one child is no longer visible and you cannot account for them. What should you do?
  26. 26. You pass a school pickup point but can return by an authorized forward route. Should you reverse toward the waiting pupils?
  27. 27. In a special school loading area, the bus is entirely off the traveled roadway and no vehicle traffic is moving or likely within 20 feet. Are the eight-light pupil signals and stop arm used?
  28. 28. A Minnesota pupil stop requires alternating warning lamps in a posted 35 mph zone. What minimum advance distance applies to the amber lamps?
  29. 29. You must leave a Minnesota school bus to assist while other pupils remain aboard. How must you secure the vehicle?
  30. 30. An empty Minnesota Type C school bus approaches a railroad grade crossing with no applicable exemption. Is its special stop still required?
  31. 31. At a required Minnesota school-bus railroad stop, how far must the bus stop from the nearest rail?
  32. 32. For a Minnesota school-bus railroad stop, when should the four-way hazard warning lights be activated?
  33. 33. At the required rail stop, how should you prepare to look and listen?
  34. 34. After a safe railroad check in a Minnesota school bus carrying pupils, how should the service door be handled when the bus moves?
  35. 35. Under the school-bus handbook's storage-space guideline, what room should you allow beyond a crossing where traffic may stop?
  36. 36. Traffic is queued beyond a Minnesota railroad crossing. Before a school bus starts across, what clearance must the driver be able to achieve without stopping?
  37. 37. A Minnesota school bus reaches a marked Exempt railroad crossing, with no officer or railroad employee directing a stop. What does the sign change?
  38. 38. A train clears one track, but the red lights continue flashing at a multi-track crossing. What should you do?
  39. 39. Your school bus stalls on the tracks and cannot clear them promptly. What is the priority?
  40. 40. The bus is stopped after an incident, with no immediate danger inside. How should evacuation be decided?
  41. 41. Smoke and fire threaten the bus's occupied passenger area. What should you do first?
  42. 42. The normal entrance is unsafe to use during an evacuation. What should guide your choice of another exit?
  43. 43. If time and conditions permit, how should you secure the bus before directing an emergency evacuation?
  44. 44. Why teach emergency-exit procedures to all students, even when trained student helpers are assigned?
  45. 45. Once students have reached the evacuation meeting place, what must the driver establish?
  46. 46. A train is approaching a bus trapped on the rails. In which direction should evacuees move?
  47. 47. Does Minnesota's daily school-bus pretrip inspection replace the State Patrol's annual inspection?
  48. 48. When possible, how does the school-bus handbook suggest assigning students to help during an evacuation?
  49. 49. On a Minnesota roadway posted at 35 mph, how far in each direction must motorists have an unobstructed view of a Type C pupil stop?
  50. 50. Two students argue inside while other children are still unloading. What should your attention remain on first?
  51. 51. A passenger's behavior prevents you from safely driving the school bus. What should you do?
  52. 52. In an emergency stop with working ABS on your school bus, what should you avoid?
  53. 53. What does ABS fail to protect a school bus from?
  54. 54. Strong crosswinds begin pushing your school bus sideways. What is the appropriate response?
  55. 55. As you turn away from a curb, why check the school bus's rear overhang in the mirrors?
  56. 56. Under Minnesota's operating rule, may you back a school bus while pupils are outside it?
  57. 57. Your authorized pickup requires unavoidable backing. In what order should you handle students?
  58. 58. Before operating a Minnesota school bus, which inspection and report requirement applies?
  59. 59. The route has ended and the bus seems quiet. What must the driver still do?
  60. 60. After repairs to a Minnesota school bus bearing a State Patrol rejection sticker, may its owner remove the sticker without State Patrol authorization?
  61. 61. At an outdoor fuel pump, may a Minnesota Type C school bus be refueled with pupils still aboard?
  62. 62. All authorized school-bus seating places are occupied. May an extra pupil travel standing in the aisle for the journey?
  63. 63. A Minnesota school bus carries a pupil who remains in a wheelchair. What must the bus provide for the wheelchair?
  64. 64. A Minnesota school-bus driver is stopped at a traffic signal. May the driver take a personal call using hands-free mode?
Review all 64 questions with answers

  1. For a new CDL school-bus endorsement, what must an applicant do in addition to the school-bus knowledge test?

    Correct answer: Qualify for P and pass the required school-bus driving test.

    For the CDL school-bus endorsement, federal rules require passenger-endorsement qualification and a skills test in a school bus of the appropriate vehicle group. Passing S knowledge alone is not enough; training and other licensing requirements still apply.

    Source: 49 CFR 383.123(a); official eCFR current through September 17, 2026; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  2. A child disappears beside your stopped bus. Which area needs attention?

    Correct answer: The danger zones around every side of the bus.

    Children can be hidden close to the front, sides or rear. The left side also exposes them to passing traffic; a single mirror view is not a complete check.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.1; physical PDF page 40, printed 35; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  3. You take over a school bus from a taller driver. What should happen before you operate it?

    Correct answer: Check and adjust each mirror for your own seated view.

    Mirror coverage depends on the driver's position. Check all mirrors before operation and have any inadequate view corrected.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.2; physical PDF page 40, printed 35; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  4. What should properly adjusted outside flat mirrors show on a school bus?

    Correct answer: Bus sides, rear tires at ground level and traffic behind.

    Flat mirrors help monitor side clearances and rear traffic. They do not remove the close-in blind spots in front of or behind the bus.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.3; physical PDF page 40, printed 35; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  5. A vehicle looks small in a school bus's convex mirror. What must the driver remember?

    Correct answer: Its apparent size and distance can be distorted.

    Convex mirrors widen the viewing area but distort apparent size and distance. Use them together with the other mirrors and direct observation.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.4; physical PDF page 41, printed 36; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  6. During a mirror check, which view belongs in the outside convex mirrors?

    Correct answer: The bus sides and at least one adjacent lane on each side.

    The handbook calls for side coverage up to the mirror mounts, the front of the rear tires touching the ground, and an adjacent lane on each side.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.4; physical PDF page 41, printed 36; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  7. Which mirror system helps reveal a child directly in front of the bus below normal direct sight?

    Correct answer: The outside crossover mirrors.

    Crossover mirrors cover the front bumper danger zone and areas near the front wheels and service door. They supplement direct vision rather than replacing the other mirrors.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.5; physical PDF page 41, printed 36; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  8. How should crossover-mirror coverage meet the area you can see directly ahead?

    Correct answer: The mirror view and direct view should overlap.

    Overlapping views help avoid an unseen gap in the front danger zone. Proper adjustment includes the front bumper area at ground level and the front tires.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.5; physical PDF page 41, printed 36; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  9. Can the overhead inside mirror replace exterior checks before you leave a student stop?

    Correct answer: No; it primarily monitors the passenger compartment.

    The interior mirror is mainly for observing students. Its limited rear view and blind spots do not replace the exterior mirror checks for traffic and children.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.1.6; physical PDF page 42, printed 37; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  10. A parent asks you to move tomorrow's bus stop to another driveway. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Obtain school-authority permission before changing the stop.

    Use school-approved stops. A parent's request does not authorize changing one; follow the emergency procedure if students face immediate danger.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, General Operating Rules, item 8; physical PDF page 31, printed 26; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  11. As you slow for a student stop, when should you check for children and traffic?

    Correct answer: Before, during and after bringing the bus to a stop.

    Approach cautiously while repeatedly scanning pedestrians, traffic and the mirrors. A situation can change while the bus is slowing or stopped.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, 8-Light Warning System; physical PDF page 33, printed 28; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  12. A Minnesota pupil stop requires alternating warning lamps on a road posted at 40 mph. What is the minimum advance distance for the amber lamps?

    Correct answer: At least 300 feet before the stop.

    Above a posted 35 mph limit, Minnesota requires at least 300 feet of amber warning. Slowing the bus below 35 mph does not change the posted-zone rule.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.443, subdivision 1; official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  13. For a Minnesota pupil pickup using the eight-light system, what initial stopping position does the handbook recommend relative to waiting students?

    Correct answer: About 6–8 feet before the students, then roll slowly into position.

    The pickup guidance uses an initial 6–8-foot gap and a slow final approach. Do not confuse it with the 10-foot distance for children crossing in front.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Loading, item 3; physical PDF page 33, printed 28; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  14. Before loading pupils into a Minnesota Type C school bus, what does the operating rule require for the bus and transmission?

    Correct answer: A complete stop with the transmission in Neutral or Park.

    Stop completely and select Neutral or Park before boarding or unloading. Warning lamps do not secure a moving bus; follow the vehicle's brake and securement procedure too.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1100, item A; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  15. The red loading lights are flashing. What must you confirm before fully opening the door and signaling children to approach?

    Correct answer: Traffic has actually stopped.

    Warning lamps and the stop arm do not physically stop a motorist. Make the final traffic check before inviting children toward the bus.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Loading, item 6; physical PDF page 34, printed 29; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  16. At the designated school unloading area, how should students leave once the bus is stopped and secure?

    Correct answer: In an orderly manner after the driver tells them to exit.

    Wait for the stopped, secure bus and the driver's instruction. Orderly movement lets the driver observe students leaving and moving clear.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Unloading at Schools; physical PDF page 36, printed 31; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  17. At the school's loading area, you saw six children but counted five boarding. What is the correct response?

    Correct answer: Account for the missing child before moving.

    Count students and know where each one is. Ask about a missing child and, if necessary, secure the bus and physically check around and underneath before moving.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Loading at Schools; physical PDF page 37, printed 32; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  18. Everyone you first saw at the stop is seated. Why check the mirrors again before departure?

    Correct answer: A late-arriving child may now be approaching the bus.

    Children may run toward a bus after the original group boards. Make the final exterior checks before returning safely to traffic.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Loading at Schools; physical PDF page 37, printed 32; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  19. At a Minnesota pickup using the red signals and stop arm, when may those warnings be ended?

    Correct answer: After loading is complete, students are seated and any crossing children are safely across.

    The stop arm and red signals stay active until loading or unloading is complete, riders are seated and crossing children have reached safety. Traffic pressure does not shorten this requirement.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.443, subdivision 1; official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  20. At a designated school drop-off area, when should students leave their seats?

    Correct answer: After the driver tells them to unload.

    Students stay seated until the driver releases them to unload. The driver counts them off and verifies that each has moved to a safe, visible position.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Unloading at Schools; physical PDF page 36, printed 31; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  21. A student drops a notebook close to a bus wheel. What should the student do?

    Correct answer: Leave it and get the driver's attention from a safe place.

    Teach students not to retrieve objects near or under the bus. They should move to safety and alert the driver so the situation can be handled with the bus secured.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.2.1; physical PDF page 42, printed 37; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  22. Why watch a student's clothing and backpack while the student steps off?

    Correct answer: They can catch on the handrail or door area.

    Loose straps or clothing can snag during exit. Watch each student clear the doorway and reach a safe location before departure.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.2.1; physical PDF page 42, printed 37; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  23. A student leaving a Minnesota school bus must cross the road in front. Where should the student wait for the driver's signal?

    Correct answer: At least 10 feet ahead of the bus, making eye contact with the driver.

    Move at least 10 feet ahead, make eye contact and wait for the driver's crossing signal. Standing next to a wheel is not a safe waiting position.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Unloading, item 9; physical PDF page 34, printed 29; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  24. No bus patrol or monitor is guiding a pupil across the road. Under Minnesota's driver-signal crossing method, what must the pupil do?

    Correct answer: Pass in front and wait for the driver's word or signal before crossing.

    The driver-signal method requires crossing in front only after the driver's instruction. Other permitted supervised methods do not authorize an unsupervised crossing behind the bus.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1100, item E; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  25. At the school's unloading area, one child is no longer visible and you cannot account for them. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Secure the bus, take the key and check around and underneath.

    Do not move until every student is accounted for. When an outside check is needed, secure the bus and take the key before leaving the driving compartment.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, Student Unloading at Schools; physical PDF page 37, printed 32; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  26. You pass a school pickup point but can return by an authorized forward route. Should you reverse toward the waiting pupils?

    Correct answer: No; use the safe authorized forward route.

    Minnesota's operating rule says to avoid backing when possible and forbids pupils outside during backing. A shorter return is not a reason to reverse toward waiting children.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1000, subpart 3; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  27. In a special school loading area, the bus is entirely off the traveled roadway and no vehicle traffic is moving or likely within 20 feet. Are the eight-light pupil signals and stop arm used?

    Correct answer: No; this specific off-road loading-area exception applies.

    This special loading-area exception requires both the completely off-road position and no moving or likely traffic within 20 feet. It does not apply merely because a street has a curb.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.443, subdivision 3(1); official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  28. A Minnesota pupil stop requires alternating warning lamps in a posted 35 mph zone. What minimum advance distance applies to the amber lamps?

    Correct answer: 100 feet before the stop.

    A posted limit of exactly 35 mph belongs to the 100-foot category. The 300-foot minimum applies above 35 mph, not at 35 mph.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.443, subdivision 1; official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  29. You must leave a Minnesota school bus to assist while other pupils remain aboard. How must you secure the vehicle?

    Correct answer: Stop the engine, set the parking brake and take the ignition key.

    Before leaving while pupils are aboard, stop the motor, take the key, set the brakes and render the bus immobile. Warning lights or Neutral alone are not enough.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1000, subpart 2; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  30. An empty Minnesota Type C school bus approaches a railroad grade crossing with no applicable exemption. Is its special stop still required?

    Correct answer: Yes, whether students are aboard or not.

    The Minnesota statute covers school buses whether passengers are aboard or not. Type III vehicles and specified crossing exemptions have separate rules; this scenario has none of those exemptions.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.28, subdivision 1(a)–(d); official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  31. At a required Minnesota school-bus railroad stop, how far must the bus stop from the nearest rail?

    Correct answer: Between 15 and 50 feet away.

    Minnesota Statutes 169.28 requires 15–50 feet from the nearest rail. Look and listen in both directions; do not substitute the older rule's 10-foot wording for this statutory minimum.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.28, subdivision 1(a); official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  32. For a Minnesota school-bus railroad stop, when should the four-way hazard warning lights be activated?

    Correct answer: At least 100 feet before the nearest rail.

    Use the hazards at least 100 feet before the nearest rail. The eight-light pupil-loading system is not used at a railroad crossing.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1100, item F, hazard signals only; statutory stopping distance is separately cited in question 031; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  33. At the required rail stop, how should you prepare to look and listen?

    Correct answer: Quiet the students and equipment, then open the door and driver window.

    At the railroad stop, open the driver's window and service door to look and listen both ways. Quieting passengers and equipment helps the driver hear approaching rail traffic.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1100, item F, window and door procedure; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  34. After a safe railroad check in a Minnesota school bus carrying pupils, how should the service door be handled when the bus moves?

    Correct answer: Close it before moving across the tracks.

    Minnesota requires the entrance door closed while transporting pupils in a moving bus. Complete the listening check while stopped, close the door, and cross without shifting on the tracks.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1000, subpart 2; no-shift rule: Minnesota Statutes 169.28, subdivision 1(a); official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  35. Under the school-bus handbook's storage-space guideline, what room should you allow beyond a crossing where traffic may stop?

    Correct answer: Room beyond the tracks for the bus plus 15 feet.

    The handbook planning guideline adds 15 feet to the bus's length. Check actual usable space; this is separate from the statutory requirement for the rear to clear the farthest track by at least 10 feet.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.4.3, storage areas; physical PDF page 46, printed 41; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  36. Traffic is queued beyond a Minnesota railroad crossing. Before a school bus starts across, what clearance must the driver be able to achieve without stopping?

    Correct answer: Enough room for the bus's rear to be at least 10 feet beyond the farthest track.

    Do not enter unless the road ahead lets the whole bus cross continuously and the rear reach at least 10 feet past the farthest track. A gap between track sets is not a waiting area.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.28, subdivision 1(a); official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  37. A Minnesota school bus reaches a marked Exempt railroad crossing, with no officer or railroad employee directing a stop. What does the sign change?

    Correct answer: It removes the special stop requirement, not the need to cross safely.

    The marked exemption removes the special stop duty, not due care. A direction to stop from a police officer or railroad employee still applies.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.28, subdivision 2(b), (d); official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  38. A train clears one track, but the red lights continue flashing at a multi-track crossing. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Remain stopped; another train may be approaching.

    A second train can approach on another track. Wait for the gates to rise, flashing warnings to stop and a safe crossing opportunity after checking all tracks.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.4.2; physical PDF page 45, printed 40; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  39. Your school bus stalls on the tracks and cannot clear them promptly. What is the priority?

    Correct answer: Evacuate everyone immediately away from the tracks.

    A bus stalled or trapped on tracks requires immediate evacuation. Move far away at an angle away from the tracks and toward an approaching train's direction, avoiding the area where debris may be pushed.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.4.3; physical PDF page 45, printed 40; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  40. The bus is stopped after an incident, with no immediate danger inside. How should evacuation be decided?

    Correct answer: Compare the danger of staying aboard with the danger outside.

    Evacuation can expose children to moving traffic and other hazards. Assess the emergency and evacuate when staying aboard is more dangerous; do not delay when an immediate threat requires exit.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.3.1; physical PDF page 43, printed 38; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  41. Smoke and fire threaten the bus's occupied passenger area. What should you do first?

    Correct answer: Evacuate the students to a safe place.

    Fire or a serious threat of fire requires evacuation. Protect passengers and obtain emergency help; a practice question is not training to fight a bus fire.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.3.1; physical PDF page 43, printed 38; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  42. The normal entrance is unsafe to use during an evacuation. What should guide your choice of another exit?

    Correct answer: The hazard location and the safest usable exit.

    Choose the front, rear, both, side, window or roof exits according to the emergency and their usability. Do not direct students through the hazard merely to use the usual entrance.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.3.2; physical PDF page 43, printed 38; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  43. If time and conditions permit, how should you secure the bus before directing an emergency evacuation?

    Correct answer: Set the brake, use Park (Neutral if no Park), stop the engine and take the key.

    For evacuation, secure the bus with the parking brake and Park, or Neutral if there is no Park position. Stop the engine and take the key so an unattended bus cannot be set in motion.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.3.2; physical PDF page 43, printed 38; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  44. Why teach emergency-exit procedures to all students, even when trained student helpers are assigned?

    Correct answer: The assigned helpers may be absent when an emergency occurs.

    Assigned helpers are useful, but every student needs basic evacuation knowledge. Planning must account for an emergency on a day when those helpers are not riding.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.3.2; physical PDF page 43, printed 38; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  45. Once students have reached the evacuation meeting place, what must the driver establish?

    Correct answer: That all students are accounted for and any injuries are identified.

    Keep students together at the safe meeting location, account for everyone and check their condition. Communicate with dispatch and responders rather than allowing students to wander back.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.3.2; physical PDF page 44, printed 39; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  46. A train is approaching a bus trapped on the rails. In which direction should evacuees move?

    Correct answer: Away from the tracks, angled toward the approaching train.

    Move well away from both the bus and the tracks. Angling toward the approaching train takes evacuees away from the direction debris may be carried after impact.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.4.3; physical PDF page 45, printed 40; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  47. Does Minnesota's daily school-bus pretrip inspection replace the State Patrol's annual inspection?

    Correct answer: No; annual State Patrol inspection is separately required.

    Every school bus is subject to an annual State Patrol inspection. The daily operational check is a separate safeguard, not an alternative to annual inspection.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.451, subdivision 1; official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  48. When possible, how does the school-bus handbook suggest assigning students to help during an evacuation?

    Correct answer: Assign two responsible older students at each exit and teach their duties.

    Preassigned, trained helpers can guide students to safety and help at the exits. The manual recommends two responsible older students at each exit when possible, while still teaching the procedure to every student.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.3.2; physical PDF page 43, printed 38; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  49. On a Minnesota roadway posted at 35 mph, how far in each direction must motorists have an unobstructed view of a Type C pupil stop?

    Correct answer: At least 500 feet in each direction.

    The visibility rule uses 500 feet at 35 mph or greater, and 100 feet below 35 mph. This threshold differs from the amber-lamp rule, which puts exactly 35 mph in its 100-foot category.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1100, item D; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  50. Two students argue inside while other children are still unloading. What should your attention remain on first?

    Correct answer: The children and traffic outside until unloading is safe.

    Loading and unloading demand exterior observation. Once students are safely away, handle the behavior issue in a safely stopped and secured bus according to local procedures.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.5.1; physical PDF page 46, printed 41; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  51. A passenger's behavior prevents you from safely driving the school bus. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Stop and secure the bus safely, then request authorized assistance.

    Use a safe stopping location and follow the school's assistance and discipline procedures. Do not put a student out at an unauthorized location.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.5.2; physical PDF page 46, printed 41; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  52. In an emergency stop with working ABS on your school bus, what should you avoid?

    Correct answer: Pumping the brake pedal.

    Do not pump the brakes of an ABS-equipped bus in an emergency. Apply the braking force needed to stop safely while maintaining control.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.6.3; physical PDF page 47, printed 42; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  53. What does ABS fail to protect a school bus from?

    Correct answer: A skid caused by taking a turn too fast.

    ABS helps with brake-induced wheel lock. It does not make excessive cornering speed, close following or poorly maintained brakes safe, and it does not guarantee a shorter stop.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.6.5; physical PDF page 47, printed 42; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  54. Strong crosswinds begin pushing your school bus sideways. What is the appropriate response?

    Correct answer: Reduce speed and, if necessary, stop safely and contact dispatch.

    The large side area makes the bus vulnerable to wind. Maintain a firm grip, anticipate gusts, slow down and wait in a safe place if conditions require it.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.7.1; physical PDF page 47, printed 42; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  55. As you turn away from a curb, why check the school bus's rear overhang in the mirrors?

    Correct answer: Its tail can swing outward toward nearby people or objects.

    A long rear overhang can sweep outward during a turn. Check before and during the movement; do not treat a handbook example as an exact clearance for every bus.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.7.2; physical PDF page 47, printed 42; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  56. Under Minnesota's operating rule, may you back a school bus while pupils are outside it?

    Correct answer: No; do not back while students are outside the bus.

    Avoid backing whenever possible. Minnesota prohibits pupils outside the bus during backing, even if a pupil could otherwise give directions.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1000, subpart 3; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  57. Your authorized pickup requires unavoidable backing. In what order should you handle students?

    Correct answer: Board them before backing, then watch for late arrivals.

    For a necessary backing point, board pupils before backing and unload them after backing. Do not leave pupils outside to guide or wait beside the maneuver.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1000, subpart 3; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  58. Before operating a Minnesota school bus, which inspection and report requirement applies?

    Correct answer: Complete the required pretrip check and carry its current daily report.

    The driver or designated person must check required components, including brakes, mirrors, lamps and stop arm. Carry a copy of the current daily pretrip report in the bus.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1300, equipment inspection and daily report; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  59. The route has ended and the bus seems quiet. What must the driver still do?

    Correct answer: Walk through and check for sleeping or hiding students.

    A physical post-trip check can find a student who is asleep or hidden from the driving position. Also check belongings, exits and visible problems and make required reports.

    Source: Minnesota CDL Manual, Part B, SB.2.2; physical PDF page 42, printed 37; state-library copy archived 2023, form dated January 2022, not a verified 2026 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  60. After repairs to a Minnesota school bus bearing a State Patrol rejection sticker, may its owner remove the sticker without State Patrol authorization?

    Correct answer: No; removal requires authorization from a State Patrol member.

    State Patrol authorization is required to remove the rejection sticker. A separate conditional rule allows up to 30 days of student transport pending reinspection after defects are corrected and the signed certification report is carried in the first aid kit; that does not authorize sticker removal.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.451, subdivision 3(b); official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  61. At an outdoor fuel pump, may a Minnesota Type C school bus be refueled with pupils still aboard?

    Correct answer: No; pupils must not be aboard during refueling.

    Minnesota's school-bus operating rule prohibits pupils aboard while the fuel tank is being filled. Being outdoors or switching off the engine does not create an exception.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1000, subpart 2; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  62. All authorized school-bus seating places are occupied. May an extra pupil travel standing in the aisle for the journey?

    Correct answer: No; an extra standing rider is not an authorized seating place.

    Minnesota requires everyone to be fully seated and prohibits standing while the bus moves. Capacity must account for passenger size and cannot exceed the manufacturer's rating.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.447, subdivision 1; official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  63. A Minnesota school bus carries a pupil who remains in a wheelchair. What must the bus provide for the wheelchair?

    Correct answer: Fastening devices that secure the wheelchair in a fixed position.

    The wheelchair needs fastening devices that hold it securely in position. Wheel brakes alone are not that equipment. Use trained securement procedures and the pupil's required supports.

    Source: Minnesota Rule 7470.1600, subparts 6 and 7; official posted rule; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

  64. A Minnesota school-bus driver is stopped at a traffic signal. May the driver take a personal call using hands-free mode?

    Correct answer: No; the personal-call prohibition also applies while part of traffic.

    The school-bus rule covers personal cellular-phone use while moving or part of traffic, including hands-free use. A red-light stop does not make the driver free to take a personal call.

    Source: Minnesota Statutes 169.443, subdivision 9; official posted 2025 edition; reviewed September 21, 2026. ↗

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Safety guidance uses the explicitly archived 2023 Minnesota manual; licensing and other state or federal rules are checked separately. Review date: September 21, 2026. Study quizzes do not replace approved training or hands-on instruction.