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Getting Your Bus License

GETTING YOUR BUS LICENSE



1. Complete the employment application as requested by the Company


2. A criminal background check will be done.  If you are a resident of Minnesota, there will be a form for you to fill out.  The Minnesota Department of Public Safety will send you a response.  We will need to see that when you get it.


3. You must pass a medical examination and hold a valid Federal Medical Card to drive in intrastate or interstate commerce in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 49 CFR 391, Subpart E.  You must show your Federal Medical Card to the DMV at the time of licensing to avoid restrictions on your license.


4. You will need to pass three written tests (Air Brakes test is optional).  Study the appropriate sections in the CDL Manuals before taking your tests.  All applicants for a CDL must pass the General Knowledge Test.  Safeway required tests are highlighted in blue.  The company will provide you with a study guide or you can go to www.dot.wisconsin.gov and look up Commercial Drivers Manual Volumes 1 and 2 to print or read.


Topic / Test subject

Questions

CDL manual

Classes

B/C - General Knowledge

50

Volume 1, Section 1-2

A - Combination Vehicles

20

Volume 1, Section 6


Restrictions

Air Brakes

25

Volume 1, Section 5


Endorsements

P - Transporting Passengers

20

Volume 1, Section 4

S - School Bus

25

Volume 2, Section 10




Other



Pre-Trip


Volume 2, Section 11







5. Take and pass the appropriate knowledge tests.


  • You must present a valid Class D license at the time of testing.

  • All knowledge tests are free.  No appointment is necessary.  Be sure to allow enough time to complete your test prior to when the DMV service center is scheduled to close.  CDL knowledge tests take at least 1 to 1½ hours.

  • Passing grade is 80% or more correct answers.


6. Obtain your Commercial Driver License Instructional permit (CDLI)


  • Complete an MV3001 Application form.

  • Present your valid Federal Medical Card.

  • If you are not a U.S. citizen you will need to provide Proof of Citizenship or Legal Status in the U.S. at time of application.

  • Pay the required fee(s).

  • Your CDLI will be valid for 6 months.  You may renew it.

  • Use your CDLI to practice driving with a qualified instructor or CDL driver holding a valid license at or above the level of your permit.  All training (classroom & behind the wheel) will be done at Safe-Way Bus terminal.


7. Schedule and pass the pre-trip and skills tests.  Safe-Way will schedule a skills test for you with an approved third party tester.


8. Add the CDL classes and endorsements to your Class D license.



Area Test Centers

800-924-3570


Hudson Service Center Hours

Business Park, Suite 100 Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm

2100 O’Neil Rod Wednesday: 8:00am-4:00pm

Hudson WI 54016 Thursday: 10:00am-5:30pm



Ellsworth Service Center Hours

Courthouse Annex 3rd Tuesday in January, February, March, May

414 W Main Street July, September, November: 9:30am-4:00pm

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Check Out These Links for Extra Help!

Questions for Inexperienced Drivers
Questions for Experienced Drivers

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Getting Your Bus License: Services
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