How many questions are on the New Jersey CDL knowledge test?

The New Jersey CDL general knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need 80% (40 correct) to pass. Each endorsement test like School Bus is shorter (typically 20-30 questions) but uses the same 80% threshold.

What's the minimum age for a CDL in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the minimum age for a CDL is 18. Federal law requires drivers to be 21+ to drive a CMV across state lines or to transport hazardous materials, regardless of state minimum age.

Do I need both the P and S endorsements to drive a school bus?

Yes. Federal regulations require both a Passenger (P) endorsement and a School Bus (S) endorsement to operate a school bus. The P endorsement covers general passenger transport safety, while the S endorsement covers school bus-specific rules. You must pass both knowledge tests.

What is the most dangerous area around a school bus?

The danger zone extends 10 feet from the front bumper, 10 feet from each side, and the area directly behind the bus. The most dangerous spot is directly in front of the bus where small children can be hidden from the driver's view. Drivers must account for all students in the danger zone before moving the bus.

What are the school bus railroad crossing rules?

School buses must stop at all railroad crossings, even if no train is visible. The driver must stop within 15 to 50 feet of the nearest rail, open the driver-side window and the service door, look both directions, and listen for trains before proceeding. The bus must not shift gears while crossing the tracks.

How do school bus warning lights work?

School buses use a two-stage warning system. Amber warning lights activate approximately 100 to 300 feet before the stop to alert traffic that the bus is preparing to stop. Red warning lights and the stop arm activate when the bus is fully stopped and students are loading or unloading. Traffic in both directions must stop when the red lights are flashing (unless separated by a divided highway).

What background check is required for school bus drivers?

School bus drivers must pass a federal and state criminal background check. Many states require fingerprinting as part of this process. Convictions for certain offenses, including DUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, and sex offenses, will disqualify you. Most states also require a clean driving record and periodic re-checks throughout employment.

New Jersey CDL school bus practice test

Updated for 2026 · 35 school bus questions of 392 across the full NJ CDL path · Aligned to the commercial driver manual · Part of the NJ CDL path

Start with general knowledge and passenger first. We recommend completing them before drilling school bus questions.

School Bus is the most regulated endorsement: it requires the Passenger (P) knowledge test, a federal background check, and a state-specific skills test in a school bus.

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Drive school buses. Loading zones, railroad crossings, student safety.

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2 tests, each drawing from a different question pool. Take all 2 to cover the full 35 questions.

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15 random questions from the school bus pool. Try it free.

15 questions80% to pass

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35 questions covering the full school bus bank. Take when you're ready for everything.

35 questions80% to pass

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Drill 35 School Bus Questions

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About the New Jersey School Bus test

The School Bus knowledge test typically has 20 multiple-choice questions with an 80% passing score. Questions cover student loading and unloading procedures, mirror use and adjustment, railroad crossing procedures specific to school buses, emergency evacuation, use of warning lights and stop arm, student behavior management during transport, danger zones around the bus, and pre-trip inspection procedures. Many questions focus on the loading zone, the most dangerous area for students. In New Jersey, this test is administered by the MVC as part of the standard CDL knowledge exam - review the New Jersey CDL manual section on school bus for the most accurate state-specific content.