Maryland CDL School Bus Practice Test (MD) 2026

4.9 out of 5 (83 votes)
80% Passing score
20 Questions
4 Mistakes allowed
Prepare for your commercial driving career in Maryland with our dedicated Maryland school bus endorsement test. This detailed test is specifically crafted to ensure you're fully prepared for obtaining your commercial driver's license with a school bus endorsement. By tackling 20 multiple-choice questions that cover essential topics like safety procedures, pre-trip inspections, basic control skills, and on-road driving, you'll refine your knowledge and readiness for the actual permit test. Achieving a score of at least 16 correct answers out of 20 will demonstrate your preparedness and boost your confidence. Each question is designed to reflect the critical aspects of what makes school buses safe and effective, such as their distinctive National School Bus Glossy Yellow color, making them easily recognizable on the road. While the Maryland MVA practice test is an excellent preparatory tool, it's important to remember that it does not replace the need for a state-certified drivers ed or Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) course. However, using this test alongside official courses can significantly enhance your understanding of the material. Additionally, consider complementing your study routine with the drivers handbook, flashcards, and road sign charts. This holistic approach will ensure you are not only ready to pass your test but also to drive safely and responsibly. The format of the MVA permit practice test mimics the actual permit test with multiple-choice and true or false questions, helping you practice the skill of eliminating incorrect answers to zero in on the right one. This methodical approach aids in understanding the structure and pressure of the real test environment, ensuring you're not just memorizing answers but truly comprehending the material.
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Sample Maryland School Bus Test Questions

Question 1

Which description correctly defines a school bus danger zone?

  1. A The passenger seating area nearest the driver
  2. B Only the space directly behind the rear bumper
  3. C The area around the bus where children are most at risk of being struck
  4. D Only the traffic lane to the left of the bus

Correct answer: C – The area around the bus where children are most at risk of being struck

The Maryland CDL manual defines the danger zone as the area on all sides of a school bus where children are most likely to be struck by the bus or another vehicle. It may extend 30 feet in front, 10 feet along each side, and 10 feet behind the bus. The area to the left is also dangerous because of passing traffic.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual — § 10.1.1, “Danger Zones”

Question 2

While unloading students at school, the ignition key must be removed even when the driver remains in the driver's compartment.

  1. A False
  2. B True

Correct answer: A – False

During unloading at school, the driver should secure the bus by turning off the ignition. The manual specifies removing the key when the driver leaves the driver's compartment. Key removal is not stated as an automatic requirement when the driver remains there.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual — § 10.2.4, “Unloading Procedures at School”

Question 3

Which statement accurately describes an antilock braking system on a school bus?

  1. A It operates only after the driver activates a dashboard switch
  2. B It helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking
  3. C It always reduces stopping distance
  4. D It requires the driver to change normal braking technique

Correct answer: B – It helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking

ABS helps prevent wheel lockup and assists the driver in maintaining control during hard braking. It does not guarantee a shorter stopping distance. During normal braking, the driver should brake in the usual manner and should not pump ABS-equipped brakes during emergency braking.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual — §§ 10.6.2–10.6.3, “How ABS Helps You” and “Braking with ABS”

Question 4

A Maryland school bus driver should be thoroughly familiar with applicable state and local school transportation laws and regulations.

  1. A True
  2. B False

Correct answer: A – True

School transportation is governed by numerous state and local requirements, and operating procedures may differ among school districts. Drivers should know the laws, regulations, and district procedures that apply to their work. Familiarity with those requirements is part of safely performing school bus duties.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual — § 10, “School Buses”

Question 5

What should students do if they drop an object near the bus while loading or unloading?

  1. A Leave it, move outside the danger zone, and get the driver's attention
  2. B Retrieve it immediately if it is beside the bus
  3. C Ask another student to reach under the bus
  4. D Wait beside the object until the bus moves

Correct answer: A – Leave it, move outside the danger zone, and get the driver's attention

A student who stops or returns for an object near the bus may move out of the driver's sight. Students should leave the object where it fell and move to a safe point outside the danger zone. They should then get the driver's attention before anyone attempts to retrieve it.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual — § 10.2.5, “Special Dangers of Loading and Unloading”

Question 6

What important information should an after-trip Driver's Inspection Report give the motor carrier?

  1. A The date of the bus's next scheduled service
  2. B Defects that could create a safety problem or cause a mechanical breakdown
  3. C The driver's total hours worked during the week
  4. D The amount of fuel used on the route

Correct answer: B – Defects that could create a safety problem or cause a mechanical breakdown

The Maryland CDL manual explains that an after-trip report informs the motor carrier, owner, or operator about the vehicle's condition. The driver reports anything that could create a safety problem or possibly cause a mechanical breakdown. This allows problems needing attention to be identified for the carrier and the next driver.

Source: Maryland Commercial Driver License Manual — § 2.1.7, “After-trip Inspection and Report”

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