DMV Practice LabChange state
PAPennsylvania
DMV Practice LabAll tests

Pennsylvania CDL: School Bus

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

Pennsylvania CDL School Bus

Practice mode
Question 1 of 60
  1. 1. A student walks close to the bus while it is preparing to leave a stop. Which area does Pennsylvania's school-bus manual identify as the danger zone?
  2. 2. A parent asks the driver to move tomorrow's pickup to a driveway that is not an approved loading zone. What should the driver do?
  3. 3. At an approved roadside stop under normal conditions, students crowd the pavement edge as the bus approaches. What waiting position should the driver reinforce?
  4. 4. A school bus approaches an ordinary on-roadway pupil stop where the eight-way warning system must be used. When should its amber warning lights be activated?
  5. 5. The bus is stopped to unload on an undivided road and its red warning lights are operating. An ordinary approaching car is still moving. What should the driver do before allowing students to exit?
  6. 6. After coming to a complete stop to load students, which action secures the bus before boarding begins?
  7. 7. A student must cross the road after leaving the bus. Where should the student move before entering the roadway?
  8. 8. Six students are assigned to get off at a stop. Which check best helps the driver confirm they are safely clear before departure?
  9. 9. During unloading, two seated students begin a nonurgent argument while other children are still outside. What should the driver prioritize?
  10. 10. After unloading, the driver cannot account for one child near the bus. What is the appropriate next action?
  11. 11. A student's notebook falls near a wheel after unloading. What instruction should students already know?
  12. 12. A pupil has stepped down from the bus, but a backpack strap remains close to the door and handrail. What must the driver confirm before moving?
  13. 13. A student plans to keep headphones on while crossing in front of the school bus. What instruction is appropriate?
  14. 14. The last scheduled drop-off is finished and the passenger mirror appears to show an empty bus. What should the driver do before returning to the yard?
  15. 15. All students are aboard, but one is still walking to an available seat. When should the driver begin moving?
  16. 16. A bus is entirely off the roadway in a designated school-bus loading area. Which instruction applies to its red and amber school-bus warning lights?
  17. 17. A route requires an unavoidable backing maneuver near a pupil unloading zone. When should the pupils being dropped off leave the bus?
  18. 18. Why does a conventional school bus have a crossing control arm at the front?
  19. 19. A vehicle appears small in the bus's outside convex mirror. What should the driver remember when judging clearance?
  20. 20. When checking the outside flat mirrors before a route, which near-bus view should the driver be able to see?
  21. 21. While adjusting the cross-view mirrors, the driver finds an unseen gap between the mirrored area and the area visible directly over the front. What should be corrected?
  22. 22. One cross-view mirror shows no child near the bus. Is that enough to conclude the entire danger zone is clear?
  23. 23. A driver adjusts the overhead inside rearview mirror before carrying pupils. What is its primary task?
  24. 24. During the pre-trip check, the rear emergency door opens normally, but its required warning buzzer does not work. What should the driver conclude?
  25. 25. A seat bottom shifts loose during the pre-trip walk-through, although its upholstery looks clean. What is the appropriate response?
  26. 26. Only two portable reflective warning triangles are present during a school-bus equipment check. Does that meet Pennsylvania's minimum?
  27. 27. An empty school bus approaches a railroad crossing with only a crossbuck and no applicable stopping exception. What must the driver do?
  28. 28. At a railroad crossing where the school bus must stop, which stopping range applies to the nearest rail?
  29. 29. The school bus is secured at its required railroad stop. How should the driver improve the ability to detect a train?
  30. 30. A manually shifted school bus has stopped and the crossing is clear. Which gear plan is correct?
  31. 31. Traffic is queued just beyond a railroad crossing, leaving too little space for the whole bus. The tracks appear clear. What should the driver do?
  32. 32. A train clears the nearest track, but still blocks the driver's view of another track. What should the school-bus driver do?
  33. 33. A school bus stalls on a railroad crossing and cannot be moved. No train is presently visible. What is the priority for the pupils?
  34. 34. A bus has a minor mechanical breakdown in a safe, visible location. There is no fire, hazardous release, unstable position or other immediate threat. How should the driver decide whether pupils leave it?
  35. 35. Smoke and fire develop at the rear of a stopped school bus while pupils are aboard. Which task has priority?
  36. 36. A fire makes the front of a stopped bus dangerous, but its rear emergency exit and the area outside it are safe to use. Which evacuation choice is appropriate?
  37. 37. A school bus enters water and immediate evacuation is necessary. Which instruction matches the manual?
  38. 38. Why should an evacuation drill teach pupils what to do if the driver cannot give instructions?
  39. 39. During a planned evacuation drill, a pupil stops in the aisle to collect books and a lunch bag. What should the driver instruct?
  40. 40. The last visible pupil has left during an evacuation, and it is safe for the driver to make the final interior check. What area must not be overlooked?
  41. 41. A new student has the same diagnosed disability as another rider. How should the driver determine the new student's transportation support?
  42. 42. Another pupil's parent asks why a student on your route uses specialized transportation equipment. What is the appropriate response?
  43. 43. A student's transportation plan requires an adult handoff at home, but no designated adult is present. What should the driver do?
  44. 44. A substitute will cover a route serving students with individual support needs. What preparation is most appropriate?
  45. 45. A student uses a picture card to communicate transportation needs. What should the driver do?
  46. 46. A student who depends on a predictable bus routine will encounter a planned detour tomorrow. What should the driver coordinate with the student's team?
  47. 47. An autistic student follows a short boarding instruction while looking away from the driver. Which response follows the manual's communication guidance?
  48. 48. At a safe stop, you speak with a student whose agreed communication method includes watching your face and lips. What helps?
  49. 49. You are unsure what a student with a speech impairment has just asked. What is the best next step?
  50. 50. A student with a visual impairment uses verbal orientation cues during the ride. How should the driver help the student prepare for the approaching stop?
  51. 51. A student with a disability joins a route on a large bus. What should guide the seat assignment?
  52. 52. A student's boarding procedure requires help from the driver, an aide, and a parent. What should be settled before they begin?
  53. 53. An approved pickup location has become uneven and leaves too little space for a student's ramp. What should the driver report for correction?
  54. 54. After a student is seated, a separate assistive device is still loose in the bus. What should happen before travel?
  55. 55. Which arrangement meets Pennsylvania's specified securement requirement for a wheelchair location on a school bus?
  56. 56. A wheelchair is correctly secured, and its rider has a wheelchair positioning belt fastened. What additional protection is required for the rider on the school bus?
  57. 57. A different safety vest has been assigned for a student's bus ride. Its strap routing differs from the old model. What should guide its use?
  58. 58. Loading is complete and the portable ramp is no longer in use. What should the driver check before the bus moves?
  59. 59. A replacement bus has a wheelchair lift you have not been trained to operate. What should happen before you use it to board a student?
  60. 60. A route includes students who cannot use the bus steps independently. What should its written emergency plan address?
Review all 60 questions with answers

  1. A student walks close to the bus while it is preparing to leave a stop. Which area does Pennsylvania's school-bus manual identify as the danger zone?

    Correct answer: The 10-foot area immediately around the bus

    The manual identifies the 10-foot area immediately around the bus as the danger zone. Students there are especially vulnerable to passing traffic or to being struck by the bus.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-3, physical PDF page 41: The Loading/Unloading Area. ↗

  2. A parent asks the driver to move tomorrow's pickup to a driveway that is not an approved loading zone. What should the driver do?

    Correct answer: Refer the request for approval rather than change the stop independently

    Use the designated, approved loading zones. A driver must not independently change a stop; bring the request to the supervisor or transportation office.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-4, physical PDF page 42: When Loading at a Bus Stop, Follow These Procedures Carefully!, item 1. ↗

  3. At an approved roadside stop under normal conditions, students crowd the pavement edge as the bus approaches. What waiting position should the driver reinforce?

    Correct answer: At least 10 feet back from the edge of the road

    PUB 117 directs students to stand at least 10 feet from the road edge under normal road and traffic conditions. Reinforce the instruction when they board so the next approach is safer.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-5, physical PDF page 43: Loading Procedures > Approach and Check, item 5(a). ↗

  4. A school bus approaches an ordinary on-roadway pupil stop where the eight-way warning system must be used. When should its amber warning lights be activated?

    Correct answer: Between 150 and 300 feet before the stop

    Activate the amber lights 150–300 feet before the stop and keep them operating until the red signals are activated. This is not the rule for a designated loading area entirely off the roadway.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-5, physical PDF page 43: Loading Procedures > Approach and Check, item 3. ↗

  5. The bus is stopped to unload on an undivided road and its red warning lights are operating. An ordinary approaching car is still moving. What should the driver do before allowing students to exit?

    Correct answer: Keep students aboard and confirm traffic has stopped

    Check that traffic has actually stopped before fully opening the service door for unloading. Warning lights and a stop arm do not physically prevent a motorist from passing.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-7, physical PDF page 45: Unloading Procedures > Stop, item 5. ↗

  6. After coming to a complete stop to load students, which action secures the bus before boarding begins?

    Correct answer: Set the parking brake and put the transmission in neutral

    The loading sequence calls for a full stop, the parking brake set and the transmission in neutral. This secures the vehicle while students are boarding.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-5, physical PDF page 43: Loading Procedures > Stop, items 1–3. ↗

  7. A student must cross the road after leaving the bus. Where should the student move before entering the roadway?

    Correct answer: Far enough ahead to see the driver's face, at least 10 feet in front, beyond the crossing arm

    The student should be at least 10 feet in front, beyond the crossing arm, where the driver's face is visible. The student must still check both ways; students should not cross behind the bus.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-7, physical PDF page 45: Unloading Procedures > Unload, items 2(a) and 2(c). ↗

  8. Six students are assigned to get off at a stop. Which check best helps the driver confirm they are safely clear before departure?

    Correct answer: Count them as they exit and recount them at a safe location outside the danger zone

    Count exiting students and recount them when they reach a safe place outside the danger zone. An empty seat or another student's assurance does not show where each child is.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-7, physical PDF page 45: Unloading Procedures > Unload, item 2. ↗

  9. During unloading, two seated students begin a nonurgent argument while other children are still outside. What should the driver prioritize?

    Correct answer: Keep attention on the children outside until they are safely clear, then address the argument

    Loading and unloading require the driver's full attention. For a nonurgent behavior problem, wait until students have finished loading or reached safety, then address it, pulling over if necessary.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-9, physical PDF page 47: When Possible, Don't Deal with On-Bus Problems When Loading and Unloading. ↗

  10. After unloading, the driver cannot account for one child near the bus. What is the appropriate next action?

    Correct answer: Secure the bus, shut off the engine, take the keys and check around and underneath it

    Do not move when a child is unaccounted for. PUB 117 directs the driver to secure the bus, switch off the engine, remove the keys and check outside, including underneath.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-8, physical PDF page 46: Unloading Procedures > Check and Proceed, paragraph after item 4. ↗

  11. A student's notebook falls near a wheel after unloading. What instruction should students already know?

    Correct answer: Leave it, move to safety and get the driver's attention

    Returning for a dropped item can put a child out of the driver's view near the wheels. Students should leave it, move to a safe place and alert the driver.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-8, physical PDF page 46: Unique Dangers of Loading and Unloading Zones, item 1, Dropped or Forgotten Objects. ↗

  12. A pupil has stepped down from the bus, but a backpack strap remains close to the door and handrail. What must the driver confirm before moving?

    Correct answer: The pupil and belongings are clear and the pupil has reached a safe location

    Clothing and accessories can catch in a door or handrail and drag a child. Closely observe each pupil until safely clear before moving the bus.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-8, physical PDF page 46: Unique Dangers of Loading and Unloading Zones, item 2, Handrail Dangers. ↗

  13. A student plans to keep headphones on while crossing in front of the school bus. What instruction is appropriate?

    Correct answer: Remove the headphones and attend to traffic and the driver's instructions

    Headphones can prevent a student from hearing traffic or instructions, and devices divert attention. PUB 117 says not to use them while crossing the road.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-8, physical PDF page 46: Unique Dangers of Loading and Unloading Zones, item 3, Electronic Devices. ↗

  14. The last scheduled drop-off is finished and the passenger mirror appears to show an empty bus. What should the driver do before returning to the yard?

    Correct answer: Stop in a safe place and walk to the back to check for sleeping or hiding students

    After the last drop-off, make a physical walk-through in a safe location. A mirror check can miss a sleeping or hiding student.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-8, physical PDF page 46: Unique Dangers of Loading and Unloading Zones, item 5, Students Left on the Bus. ↗

  15. All students are aboard, but one is still walking to an available seat. When should the driver begin moving?

    Correct answer: After everyone is seated and the safety and traffic checks are complete

    Wait for everyone to be seated before putting the school bus in motion. Complete the required mirror, child-safety and traffic checks before departure.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-6, physical PDF page 44: Loading Procedures > Check and Proceed, items 2(a), 3 and 4. ↗

  16. A bus is entirely off the roadway in a designated school-bus loading area. Which instruction applies to its red and amber school-bus warning lights?

    Correct answer: Do not activate those red and amber loading signals there

    Pennsylvania excludes a designated loading area where the bus is entirely off the roadway from use of these school-bus visual signals. This is different from an ordinary on-roadway stop.

    Source: 75 Pa.C.S. § 3345(e), Limitations on use of signals; 67 Pa. Code § 104.3(e), Use of visual signals ↗

  17. A route requires an unavoidable backing maneuver near a pupil unloading zone. When should the pupils being dropped off leave the bus?

    Correct answer: After the backing maneuver, with pupils kept seated aboard while backing

    Pupils must be on the bus when it backs near a loading zone. Keep them seated and complete unavoidable backing before drop-off or after pickup; avoid backing when possible.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-11, physical PDF page 139: Backing, item 1, Keep Students on the Bus. ↗

  18. Why does a conventional school bus have a crossing control arm at the front?

    Correct answer: To guide students far enough ahead to be visible to the driver

    The crossing arm guides students far enough in front for the driver to see them. It does not guarantee traffic compliance or replace the student's traffic checks.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed C-4, physical PDF page 42: Physical Tools, crossing-control-arm paragraph. ↗

  19. A vehicle appears small in the bus's outside convex mirror. What should the driver remember when judging clearance?

    Correct answer: The wide-angle image does not accurately show the object's size or distance

    Convex mirrors expand the viewing area but distort apparent size and distance. Do not treat that image as a precise measure of clearance.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed E-12, physical PDF page 80: Outside Left and Right Side Convex Mirrors. ↗

  20. When checking the outside flat mirrors before a route, which near-bus view should the driver be able to see?

    Correct answer: The rear tires where they touch the ground

    The manual's flat-mirror adjustment includes the bus's sides and the rear tires at ground contact. Cross-view mirrors serve the blind area directly in front.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed E-11, physical PDF page 79: Outside Left and Right Side Flat Mirrors, adjustment bullets. ↗

  21. While adjusting the cross-view mirrors, the driver finds an unseen gap between the mirrored area and the area visible directly over the front. What should be corrected?

    Correct answer: Adjust them so mirror vision and direct vision overlap in front of the bus

    Cross-view mirrors should cover from the front bumper at ground level to where direct vision becomes possible. Those views should overlap, avoiding an unseen gap.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed E-13, physical PDF page 81: Outside Left and Right Side Cross View Mirrors, first adjustment bullet. ↗

  22. One cross-view mirror shows no child near the bus. Is that enough to conclude the entire danger zone is clear?

    Correct answer: No; use the cross-view, convex and flat mirrors in a logical checking sequence

    Different mirrors cover different areas. PUB 117 calls for a logical sequence using cross-view, convex and flat mirrors to check for children or objects throughout the danger zone.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed E-13, physical PDF page 81: Outside Left and Right Side Cross View Mirrors, paragraph after adjustment bullets. ↗

  23. A driver adjusts the overhead inside rearview mirror before carrying pupils. What is its primary task?

    Correct answer: Monitoring the pupils and their activity inside the bus

    The overhead mirror is primarily for monitoring passengers. Any limited view through the rear of the bus does not eliminate exterior blind spots or replace outside mirrors.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed E-13, physical PDF page 81: Overhead Inside Rearview Mirror. ↗

  24. During the pre-trip check, the rear emergency door opens normally, but its required warning buzzer does not work. What should the driver conclude?

    Correct answer: The emergency-exit check is not satisfactory; report and correct the defect before service

    The passenger-compartment check includes both door operation and the warning buzzer. A working opening mechanism does not excuse a failed required warning device.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed E-14, physical PDF page 82: Passenger Compartment, emergency doors and warning buzzers. ↗

  25. A seat bottom shifts loose during the pre-trip walk-through, although its upholstery looks clean. What is the appropriate response?

    Correct answer: Report the unsafe condition and have the seat secured before pupil service

    Check that seats are securely mounted and that seat bottoms are secured, not merely clean. Report hazardous conditions rather than carry pupils with an unsafe seat.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed E-14, physical PDF page 82: Passenger Compartment, first paragraph, seats and seat bottoms. ↗

  26. Only two portable reflective warning triangles are present during a school-bus equipment check. Does that meet Pennsylvania's minimum?

    Correct answer: No; at least three portable emergency reflective triangles are required

    Pennsylvania requires at least three portable emergency reflective triangles, stored accessibly in the driver's compartment. Hazard flashers do not replace that equipment.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-19, physical PDF page 171: Using Emergency Equipment > Portable Emergency Warning Devices, opening paragraph. ↗

  27. An empty school bus approaches a railroad crossing with only a crossbuck and no applicable stopping exception. What must the driver do?

    Correct answer: Make the required stop even though no pupils are aboard

    Pennsylvania's school-bus railroad stopping requirement applies whether or not passengers are aboard. The prompt excludes the specific legal exceptions.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-16, physical PDF page 144: When a Bus Must Stop at a Railroad Crossing. ↗

  28. At a railroad crossing where the school bus must stop, which stopping range applies to the nearest rail?

    Correct answer: At least 15 feet and no more than 50 feet away

    Stop 15–50 feet from the nearest rail, then look and listen in both directions. Choose a position that provides the required view without encroaching on the track.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-17, physical PDF page 145: Procedures for Stopping at a Railroad Crossing; Stop the Bus, item 2. ↗

  29. The school bus is secured at its required railroad stop. How should the driver improve the ability to detect a train?

    Correct answer: Quiet the passengers and noise sources, open the service door and driver's window, then look and listen

    Reduce noise, open the service door and driver's window, and look and listen. Do not leave the bus or send a pupil onto the crossing to check for trains.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-17, physical PDF page 145: Prepare to Stop, items 1–2; Look and Listen, items 1–4. ↗

  30. A manually shifted school bus has stopped and the crossing is clear. Which gear plan is correct?

    Correct answer: Select a suitable gear before entering and cross without manually shifting on the tracks

    Select a gear that will carry the bus across without a manual shift. Pennsylvania law prohibits manually changing gears while traversing the crossing.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-18, physical PDF page 146: No Approaching Train, items 1–4. ↗

  31. Traffic is queued just beyond a railroad crossing, leaving too little space for the whole bus. The tracks appear clear. What should the driver do?

    Correct answer: Wait before the crossing until the entire bus can clear it without stopping

    Do not enter unless there is enough space for the entire bus to clear the crossing without stopping. A clear view of the tracks does not create room beyond them.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-19, physical PDF page 147: Other Pointers for Dealing with Railroad Crossings, item 7. ↗

  32. A train clears the nearest track, but still blocks the driver's view of another track. What should the school-bus driver do?

    Correct answer: Wait until every track can be checked for another approaching train

    At multiple tracks, wait until the other tracks become visible and check all of them. A departing train can hide a second train approaching from another direction.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-18, physical PDF page 146: Multi-Track Crossings, items 2 and 4. ↗

  33. A school bus stalls on a railroad crossing and cannot be moved. No train is presently visible. What is the priority for the pupils?

    Correct answer: Evacuate promptly to a safe place away from the tracks and keep them together

    A bus immobilized on tracks is in an unsafe position even when no train is visible. Evacuate pupils to safety; do not wait for an approaching train before acting.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed G-19, physical PDF page 147: Stalled-on-tracks evacuation paragraph after Other Pointers, item 9; also H-14, Unsafe Position. ↗

  34. A bus has a minor mechanical breakdown in a safe, visible location. There is no fire, hazardous release, unstable position or other immediate threat. How should the driver decide whether pupils leave it?

    Correct answer: Compare the risks; pupils normally remain aboard when that is the safer location

    The manual says pupils usually remain on the bus during an emergency, but specifies dangers that require evacuation. Decide which location is safer and reassess if conditions change.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-14, physical PDF page 166: When to Evacuate; Unsafe Position. ↗

  35. Smoke and fire develop at the rear of a stopped school bus while pupils are aboard. Which task has priority?

    Correct answer: Evacuating the pupils and getting them to safety

    Getting all pupils off the bus and to safety comes before firefighting. Only attempt to extinguish a fire when trained to do so and it is safe; do not delay evacuation.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-20, physical PDF page 172: Fire Extinguisher, paragraph beginning Only try to extinguish a fire. ↗

  36. A fire makes the front of a stopped bus dangerous, but its rear emergency exit and the area outside it are safe to use. Which evacuation choice is appropriate?

    Correct answer: Use the safe exit farthest from the fire

    For fire evacuation, use a safe door farthest from the fire or potential fire source. A front-and-rear evacuation is appropriate only when both exits are safe.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-14, physical PDF page 166: Existing or Imminent Smoke or Fire Condition, first bullet; H-18 qualifies use of both doors. ↗

  37. A school bus enters water and immediate evacuation is necessary. Which instruction matches the manual?

    Correct answer: Use the nearest usable exit to evacuate as safely as possible

    The manual calls for evacuation through the nearest most usable exit when a bus is submerged or immersed. Do not wait for a preferred routine exit or recovery vehicle.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-14, physical PDF page 166: Bus Submersion or Immersion. ↗

  38. Why should an evacuation drill teach pupils what to do if the driver cannot give instructions?

    Correct answer: The driver may be incapacitated during the actual emergency

    A driver may be unable to direct a real evacuation. Drills should cover that situation, including how pupils can seek help, within the school's planned procedures.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-15, physical PDF page 167: Evacuation Drills, incapacitated-driver and getting-help bullets. ↗

  39. During a planned evacuation drill, a pupil stops in the aisle to collect books and a lunch bag. What should the driver instruct?

    Correct answer: Leave belongings aboard and keep the evacuation moving in order

    In the drill, pupils should leave belongings on the bus and exit safely and orderly. Belongings can be retrieved after the drill under direction.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-15, physical PDF page 167: Front Door Evacuation Drill, item 8. ↗

  40. The last visible pupil has left during an evacuation, and it is safe for the driver to make the final interior check. What area must not be overlooked?

    Correct answer: Under every seat, where a pupil may be on the floor

    Before leaving, check under all seats for a pupil on the floor. A final sweep applies to all evacuation types; do not rely only on a count of visible pupils.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed H-18, physical PDF page 170: Other Emergency Evacuation Procedures. ↗

  41. A new student has the same diagnosed disability as another rider. How should the driver determine the new student's transportation support?

    Correct answer: Learn this student's needs from the student and authorized support team.

    Students with the same condition may have different transportation needs. Obtain the student's individual instructions from appropriate school staff, parents, aides, and the student rather than treating a diagnosis as a complete plan.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-5, physical PDF page 55: “START”: A Memory Aid for Managing Students with Disabilities, S = Special. ↗

  42. Another pupil's parent asks why a student on your route uses specialized transportation equipment. What is the appropriate response?

    Correct answer: Keep the student's information private and refer questions to appropriate school staff.

    The manual directs drivers to protect information about students' disabilities and refer outside inquiries to the proper school source. An unrelated parent's curiosity is not a reason to disclose a student's information.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-4, physical PDF page 54: Confidential Information. ↗

  43. A student's transportation plan requires an adult handoff at home, but no designated adult is present. What should the driver do?

    Correct answer: Keep the student attended and contact the supervisor for the approved procedure.

    When required receiving help is absent, contact the supervisor and follow the established local procedure. Do not leave this student alone or replace the required adult handoff with an improvised arrangement.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-3, physical PDF page 53: Driver Responsibility, responsible adult at the afternoon return; see also printed D-15, physical page 65: Unloading Procedures. ↗

  44. A substitute will cover a route serving students with individual support needs. What preparation is most appropriate?

    Correct answer: Provide student-specific training and written route instructions; introduce the substitute when possible.

    A substitute needs training to work with the particular students and explicit written route and pickup/drop-off instructions. An advance introduction, when possible, also helps students prepare for the change.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-5, physical PDF page 55: Guidelines for Managing Students with Disabilities, substitute-driver bullet. ↗

  45. A student uses a picture card to communicate transportation needs. What should the driver do?

    Correct answer: Learn the student's card system with the teacher or parent and use it to communicate.

    The manual describes picture cards and voice-output devices as possible communication methods. Learn the method that works for the individual student instead of replacing it with an assumption about how the student should respond.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-5, physical PDF page 55: Guidelines for Managing Students with Disabilities, augmentative communication bullet. ↗

  46. A student who depends on a predictable bus routine will encounter a planned detour tomorrow. What should the driver coordinate with the student's team?

    Correct answer: An advance explanation of the change using the student's established communication method.

    The manual recommends preparing students for changes such as detours or substitute drivers. Use the individual's communication approach and a calm explanation rather than waiting for a preventable surprise.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-7, physical PDF page 57: Autism, pointers for working with students. ↗

  47. An autistic student follows a short boarding instruction while looking away from the driver. Which response follows the manual's communication guidance?

    Correct answer: Continue with clear, concrete instructions without insisting on eye contact.

    The manual advises short, concrete instructions and says not to insist on eye contact. Looking away does not by itself show that a student ignored a direction.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-7, physical PDF page 57: Autism, short-sentence and eye-contact pointers. ↗

  48. At a safe stop, you speak with a student whose agreed communication method includes watching your face and lips. What helps?

    Correct answer: Face the student clearly, speak naturally, and check whether the message was understood.

    Follow the student's preferred communication method. The manual recommends a visible face, clear natural speech, and repetition when needed; shouting is not a substitute for accessible communication.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-9, physical PDF page 59: Deafness/Hearing Impairments. ↗

  49. You are unsure what a student with a speech impairment has just asked. What is the best next step?

    Correct answer: Patiently repeat what you understood and check the student's response.

    Listen attentively, repeat back your understanding, and watch for confirmation. If needed, use the student's suitable alternative method or short yes/no questions; do not pretend that an unclear message was understood.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-12, physical PDF page 62: Speech or Language Impairment. ↗

  50. A student with a visual impairment uses verbal orientation cues during the ride. How should the driver help the student prepare for the approaching stop?

    Correct answer: Address the student by name and give a clear advance description.

    Descriptive information, especially before the stop, helps the student orient and prepare. Addressing the student by name makes it clear who the message is for, while the amount of assistance remains individualized.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-13, physical PDF page 63: Visual Impairments. ↗

  51. A student with a disability joins a route on a large bus. What should guide the seat assignment?

    Correct answer: The student's mobility, support needs, safe independence, and evacuation arrangements.

    The manual says not to assign the front seat automatically. Consider the individual student's needs, independence, dependable assistance, interactions with other pupils, and emergency evacuation.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-15, physical PDF page 65: Assigning Seats. ↗

  52. A student's boarding procedure requires help from the driver, an aide, and a parent. What should be settled before they begin?

    Correct answer: Each person's assigned role in the approved boarding procedure.

    When several people must assist, each should know their role in advance. More helpers do not replace a coordinated, trained procedure suited to the student and equipment.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-14, physical PDF page 64: Bus Stop Procedures > Loading Procedures, multiple-helper bullet. ↗

  53. An approved pickup location has become uneven and leaves too little space for a student's ramp. What should the driver report for correction?

    Correct answer: The need for level parking, a smooth approach, and adequate ramp-loading space.

    An accessible stop needs suitable parking, approach, and loading space for the individual operation. Report the problem through the transportation office; drivers do not independently establish or move stops.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-14, physical PDF page 64: Bus Stop Procedures > Identifying Bus Stops; see also printed D-3, physical page 53: Driver Responsibility. ↗

  54. After a student is seated, a separate assistive device is still loose in the bus. What should happen before travel?

    Correct answer: Secure the device properly for transport using the applicable procedure.

    The manual specifically calls for assistive devices brought onto the bus to be secured for transport. A student's safe seating does not make loose equipment safe.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-14, physical PDF page 64: General Considerations, item 4: Special Adaptive and Assistive Equipment. ↗

  55. Which arrangement meets Pennsylvania's specified securement requirement for a wheelchair location on a school bus?

    Correct answer: Forward-facing, with at least four anchorage points used as the manufacturer designs.

    Section 171.93 requires forward-facing wheelchair or mobility-device securement at a minimum of four anchorage points. Install and use the securement devices as the manufacturer specifies; wheelchair securement and occupant restraint serve different purposes.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-3, physical PDF page 53: Baggage and/or Cargo Management, item 1; corroborated by 67 Pa. Code §171.93(1). ↗

  56. A wheelchair is correctly secured, and its rider has a wheelchair positioning belt fastened. What additional protection is required for the rider on the school bus?

    Correct answer: The provided three-point lap-and-upper-torso occupant restraint, used correctly.

    Securing the wheelchair does not secure the occupant for a crash. Pennsylvania requires a three-point lap-and-upper-torso restraint for the occupant, and the manual warns that a wheelchair belt is not a substitute for the proper occupant restraint.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-16, physical PDF page 66: Modified Vehicles and Special Equipment > Lifts, wheelchair occupant-restraint bullet; see also D-3, physical page 53, item 2 and 67 Pa. Code §171.93(2). ↗

  57. A different safety vest has been assigned for a student's bus ride. Its strap routing differs from the old model. What should guide its use?

    Correct answer: The new device's instructions, required training, and qualified support guidance.

    Adaptive restraints must be used properly, with knowledgeable professional guidance where needed. Section 171.99 requires the covered restraint devices to be used as the manufacturer designates; an old model's setup is not a substitute for the new device's instructions.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-14, physical PDF page 64: General Considerations, item 4: Special Adaptive and Assistive Equipment; see also 67 Pa. Code §171.99(a). ↗

  58. Loading is complete and the portable ramp is no longer in use. What should the driver check before the bus moves?

    Correct answer: The ramp is in its designated storage position and securely retained.

    The manual directs that ramps be securely stored while the bus is moving. Follow the vehicle's storage procedure so the ramp cannot become loose equipment.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-16, physical PDF page 66: Modified Vehicles and Special Equipment > Ramps for Bus or Vans. ↗

  59. A replacement bus has a wheelchair lift you have not been trained to operate. What should happen before you use it to board a student?

    Correct answer: Obtain the required instruction for that lift and follow its manufacturer's procedure.

    PUB 117 requires local training for special equipment and directs that lifts be operated according to manufacturer recommendations. Generic instructions do not establish the correct controls, wheelchair orientation, or operator position for every lift.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-16, physical PDF page 66: Modified Vehicles and Special Equipment, local-training paragraph and Lifts manufacturer-recommendations note; see also D-15, physical page 65: Modified Vehicles and Special Equipment. ↗

  60. A route includes students who cannot use the bus steps independently. What should its written emergency plan address?

    Correct answer: Each student's needs and trained assistance, including evacuation if the power lift is unavailable.

    The manual calls for a written plan attentive to individual needs and preparation for evacuation with and without the power lift. Plan appropriate exits, equipment, and trained help in advance; this question does not teach a lifting or medical-treatment technique.

    Source: Pennsylvania School Bus Driver's Manual, PUB 117 (2-24), printed D-14, physical PDF page 64: General Considerations, item 5: Evacuation; see also D-17, physical page 67: Emergency Procedures and Evacuation Drills. ↗

Report a problem with this question

Question reference: pa-cdl-school-001

Opens a draft in your email app. Review and send it there; nothing is sent automatically.

Draft a correction email

Contact details & help

Study tools & test information

Home / Pennsylvania / CDL

Pennsylvania CDL: School Bus

60 questions on pupil stops, mirrors, railroad crossings, accessible transportation and evacuation. Use equipment-specific training and each student’s transportation plan.

All topics and study tools
Try a fresh 20-question mix →