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Colorado School Bus Test

You'll navigate the steep grades of I-70’s Eisenhower Tunnel, so our test focuses on mountain driving and brake safety.

Questions

80%

To Pass

Minutes

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

Opens in a practice window — choose your mode inside.

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

Last verified: August 2026

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

About the Colorado School Bus Test

Colorado’s school bus routes don’t just stop at the schoolyard. You’ll drive mountain passes like Wolf Creek and Monarch, cross open plains east of I-25, and handle sudden snow squalls in the Front Range. Our practice test covers the exact maneuvers and regulations you’ll face on the Colorado CDL skills exam.

We focus on real-world scenarios: pre-trip inspections for high altitudes, student loading in congested ski resort towns, and brake checks on steep descents. You won’t find generic questions here. Every item connects directly to Colorado’s roads, weather, and rural districts.

Colorado law requires a separate School Bus (S) endorsement. The written test has 20 questions – you need 16 correct to pass. Use this practice test to build confidence before you visit any Colorado DMV office.

Topics Covered

✓Mountain driving techniques – essential for I-70 passes like Vail Pass and Berthoud Pass

✓Student loading and unloading – specific Colorado laws for crosswalks and flashing lights

✓Pre-trip inspection – focus on air brakes, tires, and winter equipment due to Colorado’s altitude

✓Route planning – how to handle narrow, winding roads near schools in rural counties

✓Emergency procedures – dealing with altitude sickness or sudden snowstorms on mountain routes

✓Colorado traffic laws – school bus stop arm violations, speed limits near schools, and chain laws

Study Tips

Start with the Colorado CDL manual – it’s your best resource. The School Bus section explains loading procedures, mirror adjustments, and emergency exits. Pay extra attention to the mountain driving rules because Colorado’s DMV exam often asks about steep grade braking and runaway truck ramps.

Practice the pre-trip inspection out loud. Colorado examiners expect you to check brake lines, tires, and emergency equipment – especially if you’ll drive in snow. Use our test to memorize the steps. Take the practice quiz at least three times until you score 90% or higher.

Schedule your written test at a DMV office that offers CDL services. Book online to avoid long waits. Bring your learner’s permit, a medical certificate, and proof of residency. The School Bus endorsement costs $30 plus the standard CDL fee.

Colorado Specific Information

You can take the Colorado CDL School Bus written test at any of the state’s 30+ Driver License offices. Popular locations include Lakewood, Colorado Springs, and Grand Junction. Each office uses a computer-based test. You don’t need an appointment for the written portion – just walk in before 4 PM. But call ahead because some mountain offices close early.

The endorsement fee is $30. You’ll also pay a $30 CDL application fee if you don’t already have a Colorado CDL. Bring your Colorado driver’s license, Social Security card, proof of address, and a DOT medical certificate. If you’re under 21, you can still get the School Bus endorsement but you can’t operate a school bus across state lines.

After passing the written test, you’ll need the skills test (pre-trip, basic control, and road driving). Colorado DMV partners with third-party testers – find an approved list on their website. Schedule your skills test at a location near you. The exam takes about 90 minutes. Dress for the weather; the pre-trip is done outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate endorsement to drive a school bus in Colorado?

Yes. You need the School Bus (S) endorsement in addition to your CDL. The written test has 20 questions – you must answer 16 correctly. The skills test also includes a school bus-specific pre-trip and road drive.

Can I take the school bus written test at any Colorado DMV office?

Most DMV offices offer CDL written tests. But some smaller offices in mountain towns don’t have the computer system. Check the DMV website before you go. Popular offices like Lakewood and Aurora offer it daily.

What’s the passing score for the Colorado School Bus endorsement test?

You need 80% – that’s 16 out of 20 questions right. If you fail, you can retake it the same day? No, you must wait one day. Use our practice test to make sure you’re ready.

Does Colorado require extra training for school bus drivers?

Yes. After passing the written and skills tests, you’ll need to complete a 40-hour entry-level driver training (ELDT) course. Colorado also requires a background check and a physical exam. The school you work for often provides additional route training.

How long do I have to wait for the skills test in Colorado?

It depends on the testing location. Some third-party testers book weeks out, especially in summer. You can schedule online through the Colorado DMV portal. Try to book at least two weeks ahead. Walk-in testing isn’t available for CDL skills.

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

Last verified: August 2026 · FMCSA-compliant content