Which Licence Do You Need To Drive A Bus in India?

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By Priya SinghUpdated On: 20-Mar-2023 01:33 PM

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ByPriya Singh |Updated On: 20-Mar-2023 01:33 PM

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A bus driver's license allows you to drive a large passenger vehicle for a living. School buses and tour buses are two examples. What are the different types of CDLs? How to Get a Bus Driving License?

A commercial driver's license, or CDL, is required to operate public transportation buses. There are several CDL classes that determine what sort of vehicle you may drive, but only one authorizes passenger buses. Details about what you may and cannot do within each class can be difficult, and you may require assistance in choosing how to obtain the appropriate license to drive a bus. This article will explain to you every detail related to a bus driving licence.

What exactly is a bus driver's license?

A bus driver's license allows you to drive a large passenger vehicle for a living. School buses and tour buses are two examples. Individuals interested in becoming bus drivers must have a CDL.

Further endorsements are required for operating passenger cars (P) and school buses (S). These criteria vary by state. Check with your local DMV and school district to see what their requirements are.

What are the different types of CDLs?

You can operate huge vehicles such as shipping trucks and passenger buses with a commercial driver's license. There are three types of CDLs, which define which vehicles you can drive: A, B, and C classes.

Class A permits the operation and transportation of any combination of vehicles having a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, Class B permits the operation of a single vehicle without an attached trailer, and Class C permits the operation of a single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds.

Operating a commercial vehicle necessitates a significant level of knowledge, abilities, and dexterity. Several are quite huge, necessitating greater safety precautions and riskier movements than the usual vehicle.

What distinguishes a bus driver's license from a truck driver's license?

The biggest distinction between a bus driver's license and a truck driver's license is in the requirements. A CDL Class B is required to earn a bus driver's license. Drivers of trucks must have a Class A CDL.

A Class A license, for example, allows you to drive tractor-trailers, flatbeds, livestock carriers, and tank vehicles. Truck drivers frequently cross state lines, which is only permitted for Class A license holders.

A bus driver's license requires the following qualifications:

You must be at least 18 years old to drive intrastate and 21 years old or older to drive interstate to qualify for a bus driver's license. The first step after reaching the required age is to obtain a Class B CDL. To do so, you must pass a written exam as well as a driving test. A drug test, physical exam, and background check are also required. Clean driving records are required, and certain places may require that you have never had your license suspended.

How to Get a Bus Driving License?

Here are the procedures to take if you want to become a bus driver. Several states may have extra criteria, however, the following is a good starting point:

1. Apply for a commercial learner's permit

You should have a commercial learner's permit (CLP) for at least two weeks before applying for a full CDL. A minor cost may be necessary depending on the state in which you apply. It is your responsibility, once you have gotten the CLP, to practice all of the movements you will need to do later during the skills test.

Some districts have their own training programs for prospective bus drivers. Check with your local district to see if one is available and when you can use it. CLP permits are typically valid for six months. You must take your skills test before the expiration date.

2. Register for the general CDL skills exam.

The CDL exam is divided into three sections: vehicle inspection, fundamental controls, and driving. To obtain your CDL, you must pass all three sections.

Before you may drive, you must pass the inspection component of the test. The inspection test assesses your ability to recognize and monitor warning devices, analyze the brake system, and execute an operational check on all alarms.

Following the inspection, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your basic skills in starting, stopping, and moving your vehicle safely.

The final section of the test evaluates your driving in a manner similar to that of a basic driving test. Your ability to use signals correctly, control the vehicle's speed, and maneuver appropriately when turning or changing lanes will be examined.

A passenger vehicle endorsement is required for a bus. The test must be completed within the vehicle in which you will be working. After passing, take all of your documentation to your local driver's license office, along with the requisite fee payment.

3. Submit a criminal history check and a drug test

For this form of licensure, most states demand a background check. You must submit to a complete criminal background check conducted by the FBI or a state investigative body.

Pre-employment drug and alcohol tests are required by federal and state law. If you are involved in an accident while driving your work vehicle, you may be compelled to repeat the exams.

4. Get some driving practice in

The final step is to put your new driving skills to the test with an experienced driver. Outstanding performance during your practice hours ensures full licensing without the requirement for an observer. Your state will need you to complete the required number of practice hours.

Local vehicle operation is permitted with a Class B license. As a result, they recognize and adhere to local rules and regulations. School bus drivers, for example, must hold a Class B license and conform to the standards specified by the school district in which they work.