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Vermont School Bus Test

From the sharp curves on Route 100 to mud season's slick gravel, this practice test gets you ready for Vermont's unique school bus routes.

86
Questions
80%
To Pass
25
Minutes

86 questions · 25 min time limit · 80% to pass

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JM

Reviewed by Jack Mahana, CDL Instructor (13+ years)

Last verified: August 2026

All questions sourced from the official Vermont CDL handbook and FMCSA regulations.

About the Vermont School Bus Test

Vermont's school bus drivers don't just drive – they navigate narrow roads lined with stone walls, steep hills that ice up overnight, and logging trucks that don't slow down. You'll need to know how to handle a 40-foot bus on dirt roads during mud season, especially on routes like Route 100 through the Mad River Valley. This isn't generic CDL advice; it's built for the Green Mountain State.

School bus driving here means constant awareness of changing conditions. One minute you're on pavement, the next you're on a gravel lane with a stream crossing. Add in Vermont's early sunsets and frequent fog, and you'll see why pre-trip inspections matter more than ever. We focus on the state-specific rules that'll appear on your DMV test.

Our practice test pulls from the actual Vermont CDL manual. You'll get questions about railroad crossing laws, proper loading zones in rural areas, and how to handle winter emergencies. No fluff – just the stuff you'll face on test day and on the road.

Topics Covered

✓Pre-trip inspection: Vermont's harsh winters demand extra checks on tires, brakes, and emergency equipment – you'll learn exactly what to look for.
✓Loading and unloading students: Master safe procedures on narrow shoulders and unpaved stops common in rural Vermont.
✓Railroad crossing rules: Vermont has many unguarded crossings; we cover the mandatory stop and look procedures.
✓Post-trip inspection: Don't miss a sleeping child – our material emphasizes the thorough walkthrough required after every route.
✓Emergency evacuation: You'll practice drills for breakdowns on isolated mountain roads and accidents in remote areas.
✓Student management: Know how to deal with rowdy behavior without leaving your seat, a skill tested on Vermont's real road test.

Study Tips

Study the Vermont CDL manual's school bus section cover to cover. Then take our practice test to find weak spots. Don't just memorize – understand why you stop at a railroad crossing or check your mirror every 5 seconds. Vermont's road test examiner will ask you to explain your actions.

Schedule your skills test at a DMV location like Berlin or Rutland as soon as you pass the knowledge test. Appointments fill up fast, especially in spring and fall. Bring a school bus that passes a thorough pre-trip inspection – the DMV won't allow a vehicle with even a burned-out brake light.

Vermont Specific Information

Vermont DMV offers CDL school bus testing at three locations: Berlin (Montpelier area), Rutland, and St. Johnsbury. You must schedule an appointment online or by phone. Walk-ins aren't accepted. The knowledge test costs $20, and the skills test fee is $50 – both payable by card or check.

You'll need to bring a valid medical certificate and a school bus that meets all safety requirements. The DMV provides a checklist; use it before you arrive. If you fail the skills test, you can retake it after 14 days. No same-day retests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate endorsement for school buses in Vermont?
Yes. You need an S endorsement on your CDL. You'll pass a knowledge test and a skills test in a school bus. No exceptions.
How do I schedule my Vermont school bus test?
Call the DMV at 802-828-2000 or book online through their portal. Appointments are required at Berlin, Rutland, or St. Johnsbury locations.
Is there a road test for the school bus endorsement?
Yes. The skills test includes a driving portion on a real route. You'll demonstrate railroad crossings, student pickups, and emergency procedures.
What's the minimum age for a school bus endorsement in Vermont?
You must be at least 21 years old to drive a school bus in Vermont. This is a federal requirement.
Can I use my own vehicle for the skills test?
No. You must bring a school bus that passes the DMV's pre-trip inspection. It can be from your employer or a rental – just make sure it's safe.
JM

Reviewed by Jack Mahana, CDL Instructor (13+ years)

Last verified: August 2026 · FMCSA-compliant content