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Bus Driver Testing | Connecticut 2026 #2 Page 2 of 3
Train for FREE online with our CT 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 Connecticut 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.
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8 . 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.
9 . When checking the springs during a vehicle inspection, do all of the following, except:
Glue cracked leaf springs.
When checking the springs as part of the vehicle inspection test, you should look for missing, shifted, cracked, or broken leaf springs, as well as broken or distorted coil springs. If the vehicle is equipped with torsion bars, torque arms, or other types of suspension components, ensure that they are not damaged and are mounted securely.
10 . When entering traffic on an expressway during the skills test, you should:
Cut off other drivers if needed.
During the on-road driving skills test, you may be asked to enter an expressway. Before doing so, you must check traffic, use proper signals, and merge smoothly into the proper lane.
11 . When exiting a vehicle, a driver should:
When exiting your vehicle during the basic vehicle control skills test, you must face the vehicle and maintain three points of contact at all times. If your testing vehicle is a bus, you must maintain contact with the handrail. Exiting the vehicle incorrectly may result in automatic failure of the basic vehicle control skills test.
12 . During a basic vehicle control skills test, what is considered a look?
A driver glancing over their shoulder to check blind spots
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.
13 . When inspecting engine compartment belts during the vehicle inspection test:
The applicant must identify which items are not belt-driven, if any.
When checking the engine compartment during the vehicle inspection test, you must check the power steering, water pump, alternator, and air compressor belts. In addition to cracks and frays, you should check the belts for snugness, allowing up to three-quarters of an inch of play at the center of each belt. If any of these items are not belt-driven, you must identify them and ensure that their components are operating properly, are not damaged or leaking, and are mounted securely.
14 . The overhead inside rearview mirror should be positioned to show:
The top portion of the overhead inside rearview mirror should be positioned to display the top of the bus's rear window. This mirror positioning should allow the driver to see all of the students on the bus, including the heads of the students sitting immediately behind the driver.
2026 Connecticut | Frequently Asked Questions
To secure a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut, you must first have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Then, pass the Passenger Endorsement Knowledge Test and the School Bus Endorsement Knowledge Test. Following this, complete a state and federal background check. Lastly, pass the Skills Test in a school bus of the appropriate class. Training may be required before testing.
To obtain a CDL Bus license in Connecticut, you need to have a valid driver's license, pass the CDL general knowledge test, and the Passenger Transport test. You must also pass a physical examination, provide proof of residency and identity, and pass a driving skills test in the type of vehicle you wish to be licensed for.
Yes, specific training is necessary for a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut. You must complete a bus-specific training program, which includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. The program covers topics such as passenger loading and unloading, emergency procedures, and bus inspection. After training, you must pass both knowledge and skills tests.
CDL Bus licenses in Connecticut fall into three classifications: Class A, B, and C. Class A is for combination vehicles like tractor-trailers. Class B is for single or combination vehicles like buses, dump trucks, or tow trucks. Class C is for transporting 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials. Each class requires specific tests and may require additional endorsements.
No, you cannot use your personal vehicle for the CDL Bus driving test in Connecticut. The vehicle used for testing should represent the type and class of bus you plan to drive. It must meet all safety standards and be properly registered and insured. This ensures you demonstrate appropriate skills for the specific type of commercial vehicle.
During the CDL Bus driving test in Connecticut, you'll be evaluated on skills such as vehicle inspection, controlling the vehicle, shifting gears, parallel parking, and making proper turns. Additionally, you'll be assessed on interacting with traffic, managing speed and space, and handling emergencies or hazardous conditions.
Yes, to obtain a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut, applicants must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam every two years. The exam assesses vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical health. Additionally, you must be free from any condition that could affect your ability to safely operate a vehicle, such as epilepsy or severe heart conditions.
No, it's not permissible to transport passengers without a valid CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut. This endorsement is required for drivers who wish to operate a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Driving such a vehicle without the appropriate endorsement can result in serious penalties, including fines and suspension of your license.
In Connecticut, the CDL Bus endorsement can be added to your existing CDL. You don't need to apply for a new license. However, you'll need to pass the Passenger Endorsement Knowledge Test and the Skills Test in a vehicle representative of the class of bus you wish to drive. It's important to check with the DMV for specific requirements.
Yes, there are limitations. Drivers with a CDL Bus endorsement in Connecticut must adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. They must not have any serious traffic violations, cannot drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and must maintain a clean driving record. Additionally, they must pass a physical exam every two years to ensure they're medically fit to operate a bus.