As with the written tests and the CLP, you must pay to take the skills test regardless of whether you pass.

You must pass all three parts of the test to get your CDL. The three parts of the skills test cover vehicle inspection, basic controls and driving.

You must pay a fee to take the written tests, regardless of whether you pass.

The S endorsement written test includes questions on loading and unloading children, proper operation of school-bus specific signal devices, and emergency exits and procedures.

If you plan to drive school buses with air brakes, you also must pass an additional knowledge test on air brake operation.

Areas tested include procedures for inspection and repair, safe vehicle operations, safety control systems such as lights and horns, vehicle control such as shifting, backing, and skid control, and basic vehicle control and safe driving skills.

You must answer at least 80 percent of the questions correctly on both the general and endorsement tests to pass.

Each knowledge test consists of at least 30 questions covering 20 general areas outlined in the federal CDL regulations.

If you want to drive a school bus, you have to pass the general commercial driving test as well as additional tests for the passenger vehicle and school bus endorsements. In addition to meeting the general eligibility requirements, you must pass written knowledge tests to earn a CLP.

Commercial drivers cannot use amphetamines, narcotics or other habit-forming drugs, with or without a prescription. You also will be tested for drug and alcohol use.Commercial drivers also must have natural or corrected vision of at least 20/40 in both eyes and the ability to differentiate between red, green and amber traffic lights.Certain conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or arthritis will render you ineligible to become a commercial driver. Generally, commercial drivers should not have any impairment of hands, arms or legs that would interfere with their ability to grasp the steering wheel or operate a vehicle.After you’ve filled out the top of the Medical Examination Report with your personal information and medical history, the physician will fill out the results of the examination and determine whether you meet federal physical requirements for commercial drivers.

Your state’s CDL manual should have a list of approved physicians to perform this exam. The physical evaluates whether you are medically qualified to transport students safely.Your CLP allows you to practice your driving skills with an experienced commercial driver. You’ll have to pay a fee for this exam, which you must get before you apply for a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). Federal law requires all commercial drivers, including school bus drivers, to carry a Department of Transportation medical card, which requires a DOT physical.

School bus license 2 agame