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Quizzes > General Knowledge & Mixed

California SPAB License Practice Test

Quick, free CHP SPAB exam prep. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Blogger EditUpdated Aug 23, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for California SPAB certification practice quiz on golden yellow background

This SPAB license practice test helps you learn California rules and prepare for the CHP written test. Work through realistic questions, view instant answers, and see where to study next. If you also drive buses, check the CHP school bus practice test, and for a quick refresh on basics, take a road rules quiz, then return here and keep improving.

What is the maximum allowable speed for a passenger bus on most California highways?
60 mph
55 mph
65 mph
70 mph
Under California Vehicle Code Section 22406, buses are generally limited to 65 mph on freeways. Driving above this limit can result in citations and compromise passenger safety. Always consult posted speed limit signs in work zones or special areas.
During a pre-trip inspection, which of the following must you always check first?
Interior lights
Windshield wipers
Passenger seats
Brake system
The brake system is critical to safe operation and is mandated by California's commercial vehicle inspection regulations. Failure in the brake system can lead to loss of control. Inspecting brakes first helps identify major safety issues before you begin driving.
Which light color should be used to signal a right turn on a passenger bus?
White
Amber
Red
Green
California law requires right-turn signals to be white or amber lights visible for at least 100 feet. White turn signals help differentiate from brake lights. This improves safety by providing clear intent to other drivers.
What is the minimum tread depth required on bus tires in California?
1/16 inch
1/8 inch
3/32 inch
1/4 inch
California Vehicle Code Section 27454 requires a minimum tread depth of 1/8 inch for commercial bus tires. This depth helps maintain traction and reduce hydroplaning risk. Worn tires below this depth must be replaced to remain compliant.
How often must a passenger bus driver check mirrors under normal driving conditions?
Every 10 to 12 seconds
Once every mile
Every 5 to 8 seconds
Only in heavy traffic
Frequent mirror checks (every 5 - 8 seconds) help maintain awareness of surrounding traffic and passenger safety. This interval is recommended by the CHP to detect hazards early. Neglecting mirrors increases risk of collisions.
When should a bus driver activate the hazard warning lights?
When starting the engine
When parked on the shoulder
When passing another vehicle
During normal lane changes
Hazard lights must be used when the bus is stopped or disabled on the roadway or shoulder. This warns other drivers of a stationary hazard. Using hazards in motion can confuse other road users.
True or False: You must report any collision involving your bus, regardless of damage amount, to CHP.
False
True
Under California Vehicle Code Section 16000 et seq., all collisions involving commercial vehicles must be reported to CHP. This includes those with minor property damage or injuries. Prompt reporting aids in investigation and public safety.
What is the primary purpose of a bus's front and rear emergency exits?
Emergency evacuation
Driver convenience
Ventilation
Storage access
Emergency exits are designed to allow rapid egress in case of fire or accident. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards require at least two emergency exits on buses. Proper maintenance and clear signage are crucial.
When loading passengers, the bus doors must be closed before which action?
Turning on the radio
Checking the engine
Starting to move
Lowering the mirrors
Closing doors before movement ensures passengers are secure and prevents falls. This procedure is mandated by CHP to reduce boarding and alighting injuries. Always verify doors are fully closed and locked.
How far in advance must a bus driver signal before turning in urban areas?
200 feet
50 feet
150 feet
100 feet
California Vehicle Code §22108 requires signaling at least 100 feet before turning in urban areas. This provides adequate warning to other road users. Failure to signal properly can result in citations.
Which of the following is a required item to have on board at all times?
Spare tire
Seat cushion
Extra fuel can
Fire extinguisher
California Vehicle Code §24011 requires a fire extinguisher on all commercial buses. It must be fully charged and readily accessible. This helps manage onboard fires until emergency responders arrive.
What should you do if you see a school bus flashing red lights ahead?
Stop and wait
Speed up to pass on the right
Pass quickly
Honk to alert
Red flashing lights indicate the bus is loading or unloading children. California Vehicle Code §22454 requires all traffic in both directions to stop. Proceed only when lights go off and bus starts moving.
True or False: You may drive a passenger bus without a CDL if you carry fewer than 10 passengers.
False
True
Any vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including driver) requires a Class B CDL with P endorsement. Even smaller passenger transports require proper licensing if regularly used commercially. Driving without a CDL is illegal.
Which control prevents the bus from rolling when parked on an incline?
Parking brake
Clutch pedal
Neutral gear
Engine idle
Engaging the parking brake locks the rear brakes to prevent rollback. Always apply it before exiting the vehicle. Engine idle or gear selection alone may not hold on steep grades.
What is the correct hand signal for a left turn if your signals fail?
Left arm extended horizontally
Right arm up
Right arm down
Left arm down
Hand and arm signals are specified in the California Vehicle Code §22156. Left arm extended horizontally indicates a left turn. Knowing backup signals is essential if electronic signals malfunction.
When should a bus driver adjust the mirrors after beginning a trip?
After completing a full stop
While moving at low speed
Never once underway
Only during rest breaks
Mirrors must be adjusted when the bus is stationary to avoid sudden movements. After a full stop ensures safety and compliance. Adjusting while moving is dangerous and illegal.
What is the minimum following distance you should maintain behind another vehicle in good conditions?
1 second
3 seconds
5 seconds
2 seconds
A three-second following distance provides enough time to react to sudden stops, as recommended by the CHP. In adverse conditions, increase to four seconds or more. Maintaining distance reduces collision risk.
Which of these is NOT part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Level 1 inspection?
Brake components
Engine mountings
Fuel tax records
Lighting devices
Level 1 inspections include all maintenance and mechanical items, but not documentation like fuel tax records. Those fall under Level 3 for paperwork. Level 1 is the most comprehensive mechanical check.
Under what condition must you shut down a overheating bus engine immediately?
Radio cuts out
Steam or coolant spraying
Lights flicker
Temperature gauge in normal range
Steam or coolant spray indicates a serious leak or failure. Continuing to drive can cause engine seizure or fire. Pull over safely, shut down, and investigate.
How often must a passenger bus undergo a CHP terminal inspection?
Every 6 months
Every 3 months
Annually
Every 2 years
Terminal inspections are required every six months for carriers operating passenger buses. This ensures ongoing compliance with safety regulations. Inspections cover equipment, maintenance, and operations.
What is the required minimum height clearance warning sign on passenger buses designed to transport standing passengers?
8 feet
6 feet 6 inches
6 feet
7 feet
Signs must warn standing passengers of a minimum overhead clearance of 7 feet, as per federal requirements. This reduces risk of head injuries. Proper signage is inspected during safety checks.
When driving down a steep grade, which method helps maintain safe speed?
Idle in neutral
Low gear engine braking
Riding the brake
High gear coasting
Using engine braking in a low gear prevents brake overheating. Riding the brake can cause fade and reduced stopping power. Proper gearing helps control speed safely.
What brake system component amplifies driver force to the brakes?
Air dryer
Air compressor
Air brake booster (tandem diaphragm)
Brake chamber
The air brake booster multiplies the driver's push on the brake pedal. It uses air pressure to increase force to the brake chambers. This system is essential for heavy passenger vehicles.
How should luggage be secured in the cargo compartment?
Placed on seats
Secured with straps inside compartments
Tied with ropes outside compartments
Loose stacking
Straps or cargo nets inside compartments prevent shifting during transit. Loose luggage can shift weight and cause instability. Proper restraint is part of pre-trip checks.
Which code requires annual medical certification for commercial drivers?
CVC 12804
CVC 12850
CVC 12810
CVC 12824
CVC 12824 mandates that commercial drivers undergo a medical exam every two years, or annually if conditions exist. This ensures physical fitness to operate passenger vehicles. The medical examiner must be DMV-approved.
What action should you take if ABS warning light stays on after engine start?
Continue with caution; ABS disabled
Shut off engine immediately
Ignore and drive
Disconnect battery
An illuminated ABS light indicates system malfunction. Brakes will still work but without anti-lock protection. You may continue driving cautiously to a service facility.
True or False: A driver can use a cellphone in hands-free mode while transporting passengers.
True
False
Hands-free phone use is allowed for CDL drivers under California law if the device is mounted and voice-operated. Manual dialing or holding a phone is illegal. Always minimize distractions.
What is the maximum width allowed for a bus without special permit?
9 feet
8 feet 6 inches
10 feet
8 feet
California Vehicle Code §355 specifies 8 ft 6 in as the maximum width without permit. Wider vehicles require special oversize permits. Exceeding without permit can lead to fines.
When must you complete and retain a written trip record?
Any trip crossing state lines
Only during inspections
Trips over 100 miles
Trips longer than 8 hours
Interstate carriers must maintain trip records according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Records include hours of service, mileage, and driver logs. Retention for six months is required.
What should you inspect in the engine compartment for safety?
Coolant level
Seat belts
Floor mats
Passenger signage
Coolant level checks prevent overheating and engine damage. Inspect hoses and radiator for leaks. This is a key pre-trip inspection item.
Which federal regulation governs passenger carrier manifest requirements?
49 CFR Part 374
49 CFR Part 395
49 CFR Part 382
49 CFR Part 382
49 CFR Part 374 requires uniform passenger manifests for charter/tour operations. It ensures accurate tracking of who is on board. Compliance aids in emergency response.
What is the maximum allowable vertical exhaust pipe extension above the highest point of a bus?
18 inches
24 inches
8 inches
12 inches
Regulations specify 12 inches maximum to control emissions dispersion. Excess height may violate noise and pollution standards. Inspectors include this in mechanical checks.
Under California's passenger overcharge laws, what is the maximum fine per passenger for overcharging?
$100
$250
$50
$500
California Public Utilities Code §5373 allows fines up to $100 per passenger for overcharging. Intentional overcharges can lead to license suspension. Carriers must post published rates.
When conducting a dynamic brake test, what is the maximum acceptable air loss rate in psi per minute?
4 psi/minute
3 psi/minute
6 psi/minute
2 psi/minute
The FMCSA allows up to 4 psi loss per minute during brake application. Higher loss indicates system leaks. Proper system integrity is critical for heavy vehicles.
Which form must be filed with the DMV to apply for a Bus Certificate of Transportation?
Form DMV 50
Form CA-1
Form MCS-90
Form CHP 602
DMV Form 50 is used to apply for commercial carrier authority including bus certificates. It collects carrier, insurance, and vehicle details. Submission initiates the permit process.
In the event of a decompression malfunction, which valve isolates the faulty section in an air brake system?
Priority valve
Check valve
Relay valve
Foot valve
Check valves prevent backflow, isolating leaks or malfunctions in one circuit. This helps maintain service brake integrity. Proper function is checked during inspection.
How often must a driver record their actual off-duty/rest periods in the logbook?
Monthly
Daily
Weekly
Every 24 hours
Interstate drivers must submit logs every 24 hours to document hours of service. This ensures compliance with FMCSA limits. Logs support enforcement and crash analysis.
Which agency sets the standards for passenger emergency evacuation drills on buses?
FMCSA
EPA
OSHA
NHTSA
OSHA requires employers to conduct emergency drills, including vehicles transporting employees. Drills must cover routes, exits, and passenger management. Though NHTSA covers equipment, OSHA covers procedural drills.
What procedure must you follow when approaching a drawbridge with a stop signal?
Navigate around if no traffic
Slow to 5 mph and proceed
Stop, obtain clearance
Honk to signal opening
California Vehicle Code §22452 requires a complete stop when approaching drawbridge signals. Proceed only after gates open and signals allow. This prevents entering unsafe openings.
Which type of fire extinguisher is required on buses carrying hazardous materials?
Class B and C
Class A only
Class K
Class D
Class B and C extinguishers handle flammable liquids and electrical fires. Hazardous materials may involve both classes. Federal Hazardous Materials Regulations mandate appropriate extinguishers.
True or False: You must inspect the suspension air chambers for leaks as part of the pre-trip.
False
True
Air suspension leaks can reduce vehicle stability and braking efficiency. Federal CVSA inspections include suspensions. Detecting leaks early prevents breakdowns.
What document must drivers carry when transporting passengers across state lines?
Vehicle title
USDOT number and MC authority
Birth certificate
Insurance binder only
Interstate carriers must display and carry USDOT number and MC authority. These prove legal authority for transport. Enforcement officers check at roadside.
Which part of the bus is most prone to chassis frame cracks?
Front crossmember
Seat brackets
Axle mounts
Roof supports
Axle mounts experience high stress from weight and road impact. Regular inspections help catch cracks early. Chassis integrity is vital for safety.
What is the allowable variation in brake adjustment during a daily inspection?
1/8 inch
3/16 inch
1/16 inch
1/4 inch
Brakes on a dual-adjust system must not differ by more than 1/8 inch. Excess variation can cause uneven braking. This is specified in FMCSA Advisory Bulletin.
Which sensor failure will disable the anti-lock brake system but still allow normal braking?
Wheel speed sensor
Coolant temperature sensor
Fuel level sensor
Oil pressure sensor
A faulty wheel speed sensor prevents ABS modulation but service brakes remain functional. The ABS light alerts the driver. Repair is required to restore anti-lock capabilities.
For a bus equipped with ESC (Electronic Stability Control), at what yaw rate difference does ESC engage?
1.5 degrees/sec
1.0 degrees/sec
2.0 degrees/sec
0.5 degrees/sec
ESC engages when actual yaw exceeds intended yaw by about 1°/sec to prevent rollovers. This threshold is per NHTSA performance standards. Effective ESC reduces skid-related accidents.
Which chemical concentration is recommended for winterizing a bus cooling system in Northern California?
Ethylene glycol 40%
Propylene glycol 20%
Methanol 15%
Ethylene glycol 30%
A 40% ethylene glycol mix protects down to about -25°F, suitable for higher elevations. Lower concentration risks freezing. Proper coolant mix prevents freeze damage.
What is the correct method for calibrating a bus's speedometer after tire size change?
Mechanical cable adjustment
Limiting top speed electronically
Tyre inflation to higher PSI
Software reprogramming
Modern buses use ECU software to calibrate speedometer based on wheel sensors. Changing tire diameter alters calibration. A technician must reprogram the ECU.
Under CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability), which BASIC category covers vehicle maintenance?
Unsafe Driving
Vehicle Maintenance
Crash Indicator
Controlled Substances
One of the seven CSA BASIC categories is Vehicle Maintenance, addressing mechanical fitness. It uses roadside and investigation data. High scores indicate need for carrier intervention.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Assess SPAB Certification Requirements -

    Understand the core topics and prerequisites required for obtaining your SPAB certification.

  2. Apply Special Driver Rules -

    Learn and apply key regulations for safe vehicle operation under the special driver license program.

  3. Analyze CHP Written Test Formats -

    Break down question styles and scoring methods used in the California Highway Patrol practice test to boost familiarity.

  4. Practice with CHP Practice Test 2 -

    Engage with quiz items that mirror the official CHP practice test 2 to build confidence and reduce exam-day anxiety.

  5. Identify Strengths and Weaknesses -

    Pinpoint specific topic areas where you excel or need improvement for targeted study sessions.

  6. Develop SPAB License Exam Strategies -

    Master test-taking techniques designed to help you ace the SPAB license exam on your first attempt.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Comprehensive Pre-Trip Inspection -

    Before driving, perform a thorough SPAB inspection per the CA DMV SPAB manual and FMCSA guidelines: check tires, brakes, steering, emergency exits and lighting. Use the mnemonic "TIRE PIT" (Tires, Indicators, Reflectors, Exits, Pressure, Interior, Test horn) to ensure no item is missed. Regular pre-trip checks not only boost safety but also sharpen skills for the chp written test and california highway patrol practice test.

  2. Safe Loading and Unloading Procedures -

    Follow CVC §28004 rules: stop in a dedicated loading zone, activate hazard lights, and ensure all pupils board or exit from the curb side. Always complete a final walk-around and use a 15-point safety scan before moving. Mastering this process is critical for your spab certification and gives you an edge on chp practice test 2.

  3. Emergency Equipment and Exit Familiarity -

    SPABs must have at least two clearly marked exits, a fire extinguisher, and a first-aid kit, per CVC §28052 requirements. Monthly drills to unlatch and open emergency hatches build muscle memory and confidence. Knowledge of equipment location is often tested on the chp written test, so rehearse exit operations until they're second nature.

  4. Vehicle Weight, Dimensions & Passenger Limits -

    Review CVC §35550 for maximum gross vehicle weight (80,000 lbs total) and dimension rules (max width 102″, height 13′6″). Know your bus's GVWR and capacity - overloading can lead to brake fade or steering issues. Understanding these limits ensures compliance on the california highway patrol practice test and is key to earning your spab license.

  5. Distracted Driving and Device Restrictions -

    Under CVC §23123.5, SPAB drivers are prohibited from handheld devices; hands-free operation only. Even quick glances at screens can jeopardize pupil safety, so develop the habit of pulling over before adjusting GPS or phone settings. Solid mastery of distraction rules will serve you well on the spab certification exam and chp practice test 2.

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