Bus #1
Bus Driver Testing | Alabama 2026 #1 Page 3 of 3
Train for FREE online with our AL bus CDL test. The official exam test consists of several obligatory parts, with all of them checking your knowledge of different blocks of road rules. If you need to obtain a license in Alabama in 2026, learn how to become a bus driver and then practice as much as possible. Free sample tests published on our website will help you check and improve your knowledge and boost your grades. Please bear in mind that DMV requirements for a bus driver may vary from state to state.
20
16
20
15 . When stopping to pick up students, a bus driver should:
Place the vehicle in third gear.
When stopping to pick up students, a school bus should be put in park. If the transmission does not have a park shift point, the vehicle should instead be placed in neutral.
16 . During a basic vehicle control skills test, a look is when:
A driver uses a look when they open their door, leave their seated position, and walk to the back of the vehicle to check its position. During the straight line backing exercise, a driver may not exceed one look. During any other exercise, a driver may not exceed two looks.
17 . Properly adjusted outside convex mirrors should allow the driver to see:
The muffler.
On a school bus, outside convex mirrors should be adjusted to allow the driver to see at least one traffic lane on either side of the bus; the entire side of the bus up to the mirror mounts; and where the front of each rear tire touches the ground.
18 . When taking the driving test and asked to make a turn, you should:
When asked to make a turn during the on-road driving test, you must check traffic in all directions and use your turn signal.
19 . In the event of a bus evacuation, students should be led at least ____ away from the road.
100 feet
If it is necessary to evacuate a school bus, students should be led by the driver in the direction of oncoming traffic to a safe location that is at least 100 feet off the road. This will help to ensure that they are not hit by flying debris if another vehicle hits the bus.
20 . If you are stopped at a railroad crossing while operating a school bus, you should:
When stopped at a railroad crossing while operating a school bus, do not rely only on signals to tell you if a train is approaching. You should silence all passengers, open the front door, and look and listen for trains. After a train has passed, you should check for another train approaching from either direction before you proceed across the tracks.
2026 Alabama | Frequently Asked Questions
To secure a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama, you must first have a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Then, you need to pass the Passenger Vehicles endorsement written test. After passing the written test, you will need to complete a skills test in the type of vehicle you plan to drive. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) administers these tests.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Alabama, you must have a valid driver's license, pass a medical examination, and complete a CDL application. You need to pass the General Knowledge test, the Passenger Endorsement written test, and the School Bus Endorsement written test if applicable. Finally, you need to successfully complete a skills test in an appropriate vehicle.
While Alabama doesn't mandate specific training for a CDL Bus endorsement, it's beneficial to undergo professional training to learn about bus-specific regulations, safety considerations, and operation. Experience is not required, but you must pass the General Knowledge Test, Passenger Endorsement Test, and a skills test in a vehicle similar to the one you'll be driving.
CDL Bus licenses in Alabama fall into three classifications: Class A, B, and C. Class A is for vehicles with a combined weight over 26,001 lbs., where the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 lbs. Class B is for single vehicles over 26,001 lbs. Class C is for vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Alabama. The vehicle used for the test must match the type and class of vehicle that matches the CDL license you are seeking. For a bus endorsement, you need to test in a bus of the appropriate size and type.
During the CDL Bus driving test in Alabama, your driving skills will be evaluated. These include pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You may be asked to perform maneuvers such as parallel parking, backing up, making turns, and navigating intersections. Your ability to handle bus-specific operations like loading/unloading passengers, use of emergency exits, and understanding special traffic rules for buses will also be tested.
Yes, to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Alabama, applicants must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination. This exam ensures drivers have no medical conditions that could affect their ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. It includes vision and hearing tests, blood pressure checks, and assessments for conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
No, it's illegal to transport passengers in Alabama without a valid CDL Bus endorsement. This endorsement is required for drivers who operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Failure to have the appropriate endorsement can result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time.
You can add the CDL Bus endorsement to your existing CDL in Alabama. You don't need a new application. However, you must pass the Passenger Transport test and a skills test in a vehicle similar to the one you'll be driving. After passing these tests, the endorsement can be added to your license.
Yes, there are restrictions. Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement must adhere to federal and state transportation laws, including hours-of-service rules, which limit the number of hours they can drive without rest. They must also pass regular physical examinations to ensure they're fit to drive and maintain a clean driving record. Violations can result in endorsement suspension or revocation.