247SimpleTests
CDL · Loading and Unloading

What do the amber (yellow) flashing lights on a school bus signal?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

The bus is about to stop to load or unload students; other drivers should slow down and prepare to stop

  1. A The bus is broken down
  2. B The bus is about to stop to load or unload students; other drivers should slow down and prepare to stop
  3. C The bus is celebrating
  4. D Pass with caution

Why this is the answer

The amber flashing lights on a school bus warn other drivers that the bus is about to stop to load or unload students. They are typically activated about 200 feet before the stop. Other drivers should slow down and prepare to stop; in most states it is illegal to pass a school bus showing amber warning lights when it is approaching a stop. The amber lights transition to red flashing lights and an extended stop arm once the bus is actually stopped at the loading/unloading point — at which time stopping is required in both directions on undivided roads in most states. Watch the lights carefully: amber means 'about to stop'; red means 'stop now'.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 10.2.4 Warning Lights

Practice more questions

This question is from our CDL Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Loading and Unloading and other topics.

Take the School Bus practice test →

About this topic: Loading and Unloading

Loading and unloading is where most student fatalities occur. These questions cover the stop procedure, use of warning lights and the stop arm, counting students, and what to do if a student drops something near the bus. This is one of 20 School Bus questions on loading and unloading, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our CDL exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Related questions

Loading and Unloading

When picking up students at a stop, what should the driver do?

 Loading and Unloading

When unloading students at a stop, what is the safest procedure?

 Loading and Unloading

What is the 'student count' procedure?

 Loading and Unloading

When are other vehicles required to stop for a school bus with red lights flashing and stop arm extended?

State-specific guides

Need information for your state? Our state guides cover local requirements, fees, and what to expect on exam day.

California Texas Florida New York Pennsylvania Illinois Ohio Georgia

Recommended study materials

Study guide

CDL Study Guide (Trivium)

Complete prep for all CDL written tests: general knowledge, air brakes, combination vehicles, hazmat, and all endorsements. Includes full-length practice tests.

Check Price → Study guide

CDL Practice Tests & Flashcards (Accepted Inc.)

600+ practice questions covering every FMCSA knowledge area, plus 400 flashcards for endorsement prep.

Check Price → Study guide

Master the CDL Truck Driver's License (Arco)

Arco's classic CDL prep with in-depth FMCSA manual coverage, endorsement chapters, and scored practice exams.

Check Price →

As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate, and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links above are affiliate links. Full disclosure →