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Bus Driver Testing | South Dakota 2026 #2 Page 2 of 3
Train for FREE online with our SD 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 South Dakota 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 . When should you inspect the mirrors on a bus?
Is not necessary to inspect the mirrors.
The mirrors of a bus should always be inspected before a trip. Adjust them as necessary before beginning to drive.
9 . As students exit a school bus, the driver should watch to ensure that they:
It is possible for students to be injured, or even killed, as a result of their clothing, accessories, or bodies getting caught on a handrail or door while exiting a school bus. The driver should closely watch students as they exit to ensure that they have all unloaded the bus successfully and have reached a safe location.
10 . 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.
11 . Crossover mirrors help the driver see:
Crossover mirrors are used to help a driver see the danger zone area directly in front of a school bus. The mirrors should also display the danger zone areas to the left and right sides of the bus, including the area from the front of the bus to the service door.
12 . Before evacuating a bus in response to a hazard, a driver should:
If time permits, before deciding to evacuate a school bus, the driver should contact their dispatcher to explain the situation. The decision to evacuate must be a timely one.
13 . If you come to railroad tracks while driving a school bus, you should generally:
In general, school bus drivers should stop before any railroad crossings to check the tracks for approaching trains. Drivers should stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail in order to have the best view of the tracks. They should look and listen for approaching trains before proceeding through the crossing.
14 . Properly adjusted mirrors on a school bus allow the driver to see ____ behind the bus.
1,000 feet
Proper mirror adjustment is vital to the safe operation of a school bus. A bus's flat mirrors should be adjusted so the driver is able to see 200 feet, or four bus lengths, behind the bus.
See the exact questions that will be on the 2026 South Dakota DMV exam.
99.2% of people who use the cheat sheet pass the FIRST TIME
Lillian MCcranie explains how our CDL study guide was helpful in passing the exam and recommends it to everyone.
Cameron tells us how he purchased the CDL exam, and found it to be a useful tool which helped him pass the exam and find a job.
2026 South Dakota | Frequently Asked Questions
To acquire a CDL Passenger endorsement in South Dakota, you need to first have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). Next, study the Passenger endorsement section in the SD CDL manual. Afterwards, apply at your local DMV and pass the written Passenger endorsement test. Finally, complete the required training hours and pass the skills test.
To obtain a CDL Passenger license in South Dakota, you must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid CDL and pass the Passenger Endorsement Knowledge test. You also need to pass a driving skills test in the type of vehicle you plan to drive. A medical examination is required too, proving that you're physically capable to drive a commercial vehicle.
Yes, to secure a CDL Passenger endorsement, you need specific training. After passing the Passenger Endorsement Knowledge test, you must complete a skills test in the type of vehicle you plan to drive. This includes pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. Hands-on training or experience driving commercial passenger vehicles is highly recommended before taking these tests.
Yes, to obtain a CDL Passenger endorsement in South Dakota, you must pass the Passenger Endorsement Knowledge test. This written exam covers topics like vehicle inspection, loading and trip start, on the road, after-trip vehicle inspection, prohibited practices, and use of brake-door interlocks. Passing this test is mandatory in addition to the standard CDL written test.
During the CDL Passenger endorsement assessment in South Dakota, you'll be required to demonstrate a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. These skills include checking safety equipment, controlling the vehicle under various conditions, and navigating through traffic. You also need to show understanding of passenger safety procedures and appropriate response in emergency situations.
No, you cannot legally transport passengers in South Dakota without a valid CDL Passenger endorsement. This endorsement is required for drivers who wish to drive a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. Driving without the appropriate endorsement can lead to serious penalties, including fines and suspension of your commercial driving privileges.
You can add the CDL Passenger endorsement to your existing commercial driver's license in South Dakota. You don't need a new application. However, you must pass the Passenger Transport written test and the skills test in a passenger vehicle. Once you pass these tests, the endorsement will be added to your CDL.
Yes, there are specific restrictions for drivers with a CDL Passenger endorsement in South Dakota. These include maintaining a clean driving record, passing a background check, and undergoing regular drug and alcohol testing. Additionally, drivers must obey all traffic laws, ensure passenger safety, and comply with federal and state transportation regulations. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in the loss of the endorsement.
Yes, there are age-related prerequisites for acquiring the CDL Passenger endorsement in South Dakota. Applicants must be at least 21 years old to drive commercial vehicles across state lines (interstate) or 18 years old for within the state (intrastate). Additionally, all applicants must possess a full, valid driver's license before applying for a commercial driver's license.
With a CDL Passenger endorsement in South Dakota, you'll be eligible to operate vehicles like buses, shuttles, and any other commercial vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. This endorsement is particularly useful for those wishing to drive city buses, tour buses, school buses (additional school bus endorsement required), and certain types of limousines.
