1  COLORADO MINIMUM STANDARDS GOVERNING SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES 
1 CCR 301- 25 
1.0 Statement of Basis and Purpose  
 
1.1 Colorado law provides for the State Board of Education to adopt and enforce regulations governing 
the safe operation of school buses and school transportation vehicles used for the transportation of students pursuant to Sections 22 -51-108 
and 42-4-1904,  C.R.S.  
 
1.2 The purpose of these rules is to adopt and enforce regulations governing the reasonable and 
adequate standards of safety for school buses and school tran sportation vehicles that promote the 
welfare of the students and afford reasonable protection to the public. The purpose of the amendments is to update the minimum standards to align with recent federal standards and reflect current industry  practices.  
 
1.02(a) This does not include informal or intermittent arrangements, such as sharing of actual gasoline 
expenses or participation in a carpool and the use of vehicles rented and/or leased that are 
operated in other states.  
 
1.02(b) Exemption: Vehicles that c arry students as part of their operation as a common carrier under the 
jurisdiction of the United States Department of Transportation or Colorado Public Utilities 
Commission are not included within the definition of a school transportation vehicle, including 
transportation network companies.  
 
1.3 The Commissioner, or designee, may provide an exemption to these Minimum Standards to the 
extent the Commissioner finds an exemption to be  appropriate.  
 
2.0 Effective  Date  
 
2.1 Except  as indicated  in Rule  6.01(a), school  transportation  vehicles  manufactured,  per the date 
listed on the certification plate, or decal, on or after the effective date of these rules, for the purpose of transporting Colorado students shall meet or exceed the  MinimumStandards.  
 
2.2 School districts, charter schools, and service providers are discouraged from operating school buses, per Rule 7.12, that were manufactured, per the date listed on the certification plate, or decal, which are over 25 years of  age. 
 
2.3 School districts, charter schools, and service providers shall not sell or lease any scho ol bus or 
school transportation vehicle(s) over 20 years of age, per the date listed on the certification plate, 
or decal, to any other school district, charter school, or service provider for the use of transporting 
Colorado students for any purpose. Like wise, a school district, charter school, or service provider 
shall not purchase any school bus or school transportation vehicle over 20 years of age. 
 
2.4 School districts, charter schools, and service providers are discouraged from operating school transporta tion small capacity vehicles per Rule 7.16 that were manufactured, per the date listed on 
the certification plate, or decal, which are over 15 years of  age. 2  3.0 Testing and Certification  
 
3.1 School bus manufacturers shall provide annual certification to the Colorado Department of 
Education  that their  product(s)  meet  or exceed  the regulations  in Colorado  Minimum  Standards  and 
all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) in effect at the time of manufacture. 
School bus manufacturers shall record and report to CDE the test results as required by Section 8 -  
Construction. All school bus bodies that meet applicable FMVSS regulations and comply  with the 
Minimum Standards and shall be certified by the school bus manufacturer by attaching a certification plate  ordecal.  
 
3.2 It shall be the responsibility of the school district, charter school, and service provider to ascertain whether all school buses  purchased, leased, or under contract to the school district, charter 
school, or service provider meet all specifications of the Minimum Standards. This verification 
should be obtained at the time of delivery, in addition to the statement of compliance in the 
purchase  bid, contract  for or lease  agreement.
 
 
3.3 When selling a school transportation vehicle, it is the responsibility of the school district, charter school, or service provider to eliminate the school district, charter school, or service provider’s full name from the  vehicle.
 
 
3.4 New and used school bus dealers shall register with the Colorado Department of Education, School Transportation Unit, certifying that only school transportation vehicles meeting or exceeding Colorado Minimum Standards will be sold to a school district, charter school, or service provider providing transportation from home to school, school to school and to 
school related events in Colorado. There shall be no fee  toregister.
 
 
3.5 All school transportation vehicles must meet and continue to meet all applicable FMVSS 
regulations  in effec t on the date  of manufacture,  per the date  listed  on the certification  plate  or 
decal.  
 
4.0 Responsibility of  Suppliers  
 
4.1 Dealers, distributors, and manufacturers of school buses and school transportation vehicles each 
have a responsibility to comply with the Minimum Standards on or after the effective date of 
these rules.  
 
4.2 Dealers, distributors or manufacturers which supply school buses and school transportation 
vehicles for use in the State of Colorado which do not meet the specifications of these rules shall 
be notified of noncompliance and a written notice will be sent to all school districts, charter schools, and service providers within the State of Colorado advising that equipment supplied by 
such dealer, distributor, or manufacturer is not in compliance with the  MinimumStandards.
 
 
4.02(a) If a dealer, distributor, or manufacturer has been notified of non -compliance in 
accordance with Rule 4.2 of these rules and replaces or modifies the equipment to meet the Minimum Standards, a written notification of compliance will be issued from 
the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) within 30 days after proof of compliance.  
 
5.0 Bus Delivery  Requirements  
 
5.1 The bus manufacturer  shall provide  the following  materials  and information  for direct  delivery 
to the customer upon  request:  3  5.01(a) Line set tickets for each individual unit including chassis and body,  
 
5.01(b) A copy of the pre -delivery service performed and verified by a checkout form for each 
individual unit,  
 
5.01(c) Warr anty book and statement of warranty for each individual unit,  
 
5.01(d) Service manual (hard copy or electronic copy) for each individual unit or identical units 
for all major components of the bus (e.g., body, chassis, transmission, etc.), and  
 
5.01(e) Par ts manual (hard copy or electronic copy) for each individual unit or identical units for 
all major components of the bus (e.g., body, chassis, transmission, etc.).  
 
6.0 Prohibited Use 
 
6.1 Under federal law (49 USC 30112(a)), a new over- the-road motor coach bus shall not be sold for 
the purpose of transporting school -age students to and from school or to school related events 
unless it meets all FMVSS regulations for school buses.  
 
6.01(a)  Upon passage of a local board of education resolution, a school district,  charter  school  
or service provider may purchase a used over- the-road motor coach bus and/or attain a 
short -term rental of a motor coach bus from a contract carrier for the transportation of 
students to school related events. Such a resolution shall specify that consideration was 
given to the standards of safety to promote the welfare of students, including recommendations from national transportation  organizations.  
 
6.2 A motor coach bus may be used for transportation exclusively for school- related events upon 
passage of a local school board resolution. A motor coach shall not be used for transporting 
students to and from school or school to school for route  purposes.  
 
6.02(a) A board reso lution is not necessary for transporting students on common carriers.  
 
6.3 Type B, C, and D multifunction buses shall not be used for transporting students to and from school 
for route  purposes.  
 
6.4 Effective January 1, 2025, pursuant to Section 8 of these rules, vehicles with a capacity of more than 12 passengers that do not meet the Colorado Rack and Load, Kentucky Pole test and FMVSS School Bus Safety Standards, as required, are prohibited from transporting students for any  reason.  
 
6.5 Per the effective date of these rules, school transportation vehicles, per Rule 7.14, owned or leased by the school district, charter school or service providers that are used for student transportation shall not have  the windows  obstructed  in any way by advertising,  decorations  or vehicle  wraps.  
 
6.05(a) Exception: Tint applied by the vehicle manufacturer to industry standards. 
6.05(b) Exception: Route identification is permitted per 1CCR 301 -26, 16.04.  
6.6 Any type of passenger vehicle with a fiberglass roof shall not be permitted to transport student s 
unless it meets Colorado Rack and  Load.  4  7.0 Definitions 
 
7.1 Boards of Cooperative Educational Services - (BOCES) means a regional educational service 
unit designed to provide supporting, instructional, administrative, facility, community, or any 
other services contracted by participating. Section  22-5- 103(2)  
 
7.2 Charter School - A charter school is a public school that operates pursuant to a charter 
contract entered into pursuant to the provisions of article 30.5 of title 22. As used in this title, 
unless the context otherwise requires, "charter school" includes any type of charter school 
created pursuant to the provisions of article 30.5 of title 22.  Section 22-1- 101(2)  
 
7.3 Colorado Rack and Load Test – is designed to ve rify the structural integrity and 
crashworthiness of school bus design as outlined in Rule 8.8 and Rule 8.9. The test simulates a rollover crash by applying a constant load along the full length of the bus body. This ensures that all pushout  windows  and emergency  exits  will be fully  functional  after an accident  occurs.  
 
7.4 Kentucky Pole Test - is designed to verify that the interior panels above the window will not 
separate and expose sharp edges in the event of a crash. The test involves a rollover simulation, in which the bus strikes a pole -like object, which forces the ro of to bend into the 
passenger compartment. Standards require that separation of body panels must not occur when the roof bends between 8 -10 inches.  
 
7.5 Fifteen Passenger Van – is a van, not a Type A School bus, that has the capacity of transporting 
14 passengers, not including the  driver.  
 
7.6 Local Board of Education - means the board of education of a school district or the governing 
board of a  BOCES.  
 
7.7 Motor Coach – is a bus that has a high elevated floor, with a full row of luggage bays  found 
below the main cabin. It also has premium features such as restrooms, reclining seats, power outlets, television,  etc. 
 
7.8 Multifunction School Activity Bus (MFSAB) - is a type of school bus that is required to meet all 
FMVSS regulations  applicable  to school  buses,  except  those  requiring  the installation  of traffic 
control devices. Pursuant to Rule 6.3, Type B, C, and D multifunction buses shall not be used for transpo rting students to and from home to school for route  purposes.  
 
7.08(a) Exception: Per 1 CCR 301 -26, 18.1, Type A Multifunction buses may be used to 
transport students to and from school, school to school for route purposes and activities.  
 
7.9 Public School Di strict - means a public school district that derives its support, in whole or in part, 
from moneys raised by a general state, county, or district tax pursuant to Section 22 -1-101
, C.R.S. 
 
7.10 Regenerative Braking System – this is a mechanism found on most hybrid and full -electric vehicles. 
It captures the kinetic energy from braking and converts it into the electrical power that charges the vehicle's high -voltage battery. Regenerative braking also slows the vehicle down, which assists the 
use of traditional/service  brakes.  
 
7.11 SAE – Acronym for Society of Automotive Engineers,  Inc. 5  7.12 School Bus - means a passenger motor vehicle which is designed and used to carry more than 12 
passengers in addition to the driver, and which the Secretary of Transportation determines is 
likely to be significantly used for the purpose of transporting preprimary, primary, or secondary school students to or from school or an event related to school. School buses are specifically designed for maximum  safety.  
 
7.13 School Bus Eight -Way Alternating Flashing Warning Signal Lamps - are amber and red lamps 
mounted at the same horizontal level intended to identify the vehicle as a school bus and to inform other users of the highway that such vehicle is stopped or about to stop on the roadway to take on or discharge school  children.  
 
7.14 School Transportation Vehicle - means every motor  vehicle which is owned by a school district 
charter school, or service provider and operated, rented or leased for the transportation of students to and from school, from school to school, or to school related events or which is privately owned and operat ed for compensation provided that such transportation service is 
sponsored and approved by the local board of education or school’s governing board and operating within the State of Colorado.  
 
7.15 Secondary  Braking  System  includes  retarders,  engine  brakes,  turbo  brakes,  driveline  brakes,  etc. 
 
7.16 Small Capacity Vehicle - means a motor vehicle, which does not meet the requirements of Type A, 
B, C, or D school buses, designed for general purpose use. These vehicles (12 passengers including the driver or less) may be used to carry students to and from school, from school to  school, or to 
school -related events, and shall meet or exceed all applicable rules and  regulations. 
 
7.17 Specially Equipped Buses - are buses equipped to accommodate students with disabilities that 
are dependent upon the needs of the  passengers. 
 
7.18 Transportation Network Company (TNC) – transportation provided by a company or individual as 
part of their operation as a common carrier, or transportation network company operating pursuant to Section 40 -10.1 -602, C.R.S., under the jurisdiction of the US Department of 
Transportation or the Public Utilities  Commission.  
 
7.19 Type A School Bus - is a conversion or body constructed utilizing a cutaway front -section 
vehicle with a left side driver’s door and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 21,500 
pounds or  less. 
 
7.20 Type B School Bus - is a body constructed and installed upon a stripped chassis. Part of 
the engine is beneath and/or behind the windshield and beside the driver's seat. The service door is behind thefront  wheels.  
 
7.21 Type C School Bus - is constructed  utilizing a chassis with a hood and fender assembly. This 
includes the cutaway truck chassis, including the cab, with or without a left side driver door, and with a GVWR greater than 21,500 pounds. The service door is behind the front  wheels.  
 
7.22 Type D Scho ol bus - is constructed utilizing a stripped chassis, the engine may be behind the 
windshield and beside the driver's seat; or it may be at the rear of the bus, behind the rear 
wheels. The service door is ahead of the front wheels.  6  7.23 Vehicle Seating Capacity - is the number of passengers (excluding the driver) assigned by the 
manufacturer as indicated on the certificate plate, or decal and cannot be changed by the 
purchaser.  
 
8.0 Construction  
 
8.1 All metal surfaces that will be painted shall be chemically cleaned, etched, zinc -phosphate -coated 
and zinc -chromate or epoxy primed or conditioned by an equivalent process. Particular attention 
shall be given to lapped surfaces, welded connections of structural members, cut edges, punched 
or drilled hole areas in sheet metal, closed or box sections, unvented or undrained areas and surfaces  subject  to abrasion  during vehicle  operation.  
 
8.2 The floor shall be at least 14 -gauge mill applied zinc -coated steel sheet and shall be on one 
plane. There shall be a main floor cross member of at least 10 -gauge steel or equivalent 
extending  the full width  of the floor plate  and permanently  attached.  There shall be a minimum 
of two intermediate floor cross members of at least 16 -gauge steel equally between the main 
floor cross members and permanently  attached.  
 
8.02(a) Type A buses 14,500 GVWR or less may use other metal ormaterial with strength and 
corro sion resistance  at least  equivalent  to all-steel  construction  as certified  by the bus 
body  manufacturer. 
 
8.3 Subfloor shall be either five ply nominal 5/8 inches thick plywood, or a material of equal or greater strength and insulation R value and it will equal or exceed properties of exterior -type 
softwood plywood C -D grade, as specified in National Bureau of Standards (NBS) Product 
Standard 1 -83. Type A buses, 14,500 GVWR or less, shall have nominal ½ inch thick plywood or 
equivalent material equal to or exce eding the properties listed  above.  
 
8.4 Ceiling  Panels:  If the ceiling  is constructed  to contain  lap joints, the forward  panel  shall be lapped 
by the rear panel and the exposed edges shall be beaded, hemmed, or flanged or otherwise treated to eliminate sharp edges.  
 
8.5 All body  components  shall  be designed  and constructed  to avoid  the entrapment  of 
moisture and  dust.  
 
8.6 All openings  between  the chassis  and passenger -carrying  compartment  made  for any reason 
must be  sealed.  
 
8.7 On Type  B, C, and D buses,  the bus  body shall  meet  the test standards  of the Kentucky  Pole  test as 
outlined in Rule  7.4. 
 
8.8 In addition to complying with FMVSS 220 test procedures, the body manufacturers shall record and report the downward vertical movement of the force at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of the maximum force (both loading and unloading). The expected force deflection curve is 
illustrated schematically in Figure 1a. Low load nonlinearities may indicate joint conformation; high load nonlinearities may indicate yielding  structuralmembers.  
 
8.08(a) A second load cycle shall be performed following the procedure given in the first 
paragraph. The expected force -deflection curve is illustrated schematically in Figure  
1b. Any hysteresis  following  the initial shakedown  will be revealed  by this second  cycle.  7   
 
Figure 1. Static Load Test Load -Deflection Curves  
 
8.9 A diagonal (racking) load test shall be performed on Type A, B, C and D school buses to assure 
adequate  shear  stiffness  and strength  of the bus body.  Details  of the test are provided  below. 
A two -cycle loading sequence shall be conducted following the procedure described in Rule 
8.09.  
 
8.09(a) Requirements: When a force equal to 1 ½ times the GVW is applied to the edge of the 
roof of the vehicle's body structure through a forc e application plate as specified in (b), 
Test Procedures:  
 
8.09(a)(1) The diagonal movement of the force at any point on theapplication plate 
shall not exceed 5 1/8 inches; and  
 
8.09(a)(2) Each emergency exit of the vehicle provided in accordancewith FMVSS  217 
shall be capable of operation as specified in that standard during the full 
application of the force and after release of theforce.  
 
8.09(b) Test Procedures: Each vehicle shall be capable of meeting the requirements of  
(1) and (2) when  tested  in accordance  with  the procedures  set forth  below.  
 
8.09(b)(1) The vehicle shall be supported on a rigid surface along the lower edge of the 
frame or along the body sills in the absence of a frame.  
 
8.09(b)(2) The load shall be applied through a force application plate that is flat and 
rigid. The dimensions  of the plate shall be chosen to assure that the plate edges 
never make contact with the vehicle skin during testing. A typical width is 18 
inches. A typical length is 20 inches less than the length of the vehicle's roof measured along its longitudinal cen terline.  
 
8.09(b)(3) Place the force application plate in contact with the edge of the vehicle roof. 
Orient the plate so that its flat, rigid surface is perpendicular to a diagonal line connecting the most distant points on an interior cross section of the vehicle. 
The rear edge of the plate shall be positioned approximately 20 inches from the rear edge of the vehicle roof. A temporary stand may be used to support the plate until a force is applied.  
 
8.09(b)(4) Apply an evenly distributed force in a diagona llydownward direction through 
the force application plate at any rate not more than 0.5 inches per second, until a force of 500 pounds has beenapplied.  
8  8.09(b)(5) Apply additional force in a diagonally downward direction through the 
force app lication plate at a rate of not more than 0.5 inches per second  
until the force specified in (a) has been applied and maintains this 
application of force.  
 
8.09(b)(6) Measure the diagonal movement of any point on theforce application 
plate which occurred during the application of force in accordance with Rule 8.09(b)(5) and open the emergency exits as specified in Rule8.09(a)(2).  
 
8.09(b)(7) Release all diago nal force applied through the force application plate and 
operate the emergency exits as specified in Rule8.09(a)(2).  
 
8.09(c) Test Conditions: The following conditions apply to the requirements specified 
in Rule 8.09(b) (3).  
 
8.09(c)(1) Temperature: The a mbient temperature is any level between32 degrees 
Fahrenheit and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.  
 
8.09(c)(2) Windows and Doors: Vehicle windows, doors and emergency exitsare in the 
fully closed position and latched but not locked.  
 
8.09(d) An alternative method of testing for the racking load test shall beas 
follows:  
 
14.09(d)(1) The racking load shall be applied along a line connecting the most distant points on a transverse cross section of the bus interior. It produces a shear distortion of the cross section as s hown in figure 2.  
 
A representative method of loading which employs a hydraulic jack to load a 
two- frame test assembly is illustrated in figure 2.  
 
The maximum jack load for the two -frame assembly is determined by the 
following formula:  
 
J = 2P J -  maximum jack load for two -frame test assembly P = load/frame 
where P = DVW divided by N  
DVW - dynamic vehicle weight 
N - total number of bus body 
frames and DVW = DF x GVW  
DF - dynamic factor, not less than 1.5 
GVW - gross vehicle weight  
Thus, for a DF = 1.5, a GVW = 22,000 pounds -force (lbf), and N= 11, the 
dynamic vehicle weight is DVW = 33,000 lbf, the load/frame is P = 3000 
lbf and the maximum jack load is J = 6000 lbf.  9  8.09(d)(2)  When a complete bus body is rack -loaded, the total  load  DVWmust  
be distributed unifo rmly along the bus body. One method is to mount a series 
of hydraulic jacks along the length of the bus interior. Seats may be removed 
to facilitate jack mounting. The rack load will be considered to be uniformly 
distributed when the variation in the hydra ulic jack readings is less than 10 
percent.  A maximum  load  for DVW  shall  be the sum  of all jack readings.  
 
 
Transverse Cross Section  Side View  
 
Figure 2. Arrangement of Hydraulic Jack for Rack -Loading of Two -Frame 
Assembly  
 
8.09(d)(2)(A) The test may be performed on a complete bus body or on a 
representative section composed of at least two complete frames 
(body posts plus roof bows) and floor. St andard seats may be installed 
in the test section in a manner identical to that of the full bus body.  
Fabrication procedures for the test assembly shall be identical to 
normal bus body production.  
 
8.09(d)(2)(B) A two -cycle loading sequence shall be conduc ted, with 
intermediate and final load and deflection readings recorded according 
to the procedure described.  
 
8.09(d)(2)(C) The maximum deflection in line with the jack (A, maximum) shall 
not exceed four inches.  
 
8.09(d)(3)  Manufacturers shall specify which testing method  was usedand  
submit  appropriate  certification  information  as called  for in 3.1. 
 
9.0 Overall S ize 
 
9.1.1  Overall  length  of school  buses  shall not exceed  40 feet pursuant  to Section  42-4-504 C.R.S. 
 
9.2 Overall width of the school bus shall not exceed eight feet six inches (8 1/2 feet)  pursuant to  
Section 42 - 4-502 (4)  C.R.S.  
 
10.0 Interior  
 
10.1 Inside body height shall be 72 inches or more, measured metal to metal at any point on 
longitudinal  center  line from  front vertical  bow  to rear vertical bow.  Type  A school  buses  of 14,500 
GVWR or less shall have 62 inches or more inside height, measured metal to metal. Neither 
measurement shall include air conditioningunits.  
10  10.2 The interior of a school  transportation  vehicle  shall be free of all projections  likely  to cause  injury.  
 
10.3 Global Positioning System  Tablets  
10.3(a) Tablets shall be mounted in a location that will not interfere with the driver’s vision. 
10.3(b) Wiring for the tablet is to be routed to not interfere with controls, vision, or become a  
tripping hazard. Wiring shall be hidden whenever possible.  
 
10.3(c) When the vehicle is placed in gear, the tablet may go black, but it is still permitted to give 
auditory directions. Once the vehicle is placed into “park” the screen may then become 
visible. Districts, charter schools, and service providers may opt to have the screen visible while driving to aid substitute and new operators.  
 
11.0 Aisle  
 
11.1 Minimum  aisle  clearance  between  seats  and to all emergency  doors  shall be 12 inches  at seat 
level.  
 
11.2 On forward  control  (front  engine)  Type  D buses,  the aisle  passage  area  shall not be less than  12 
inches, measured from floor level up, between engine cover and any other object. Hold down fastening devices used on engine cover shall be designed to prevent hooking or catching on shoes or  clothing.  
 
12.0 Axles  
 
12.1 Rear axle shall be single  speed.  
 
13.0 Battery (Low  Voltage)  
 
13.1 On Type B, C and D buses, a drawer -type pull out tray shall be provided to facilitate servicing or 
removal of battery(ies) not used for the motive propulsion of the bus. The battery(ies) shall be enclosed by a vented compartment, provided with drain ports, a hold down carrier mounted to 
avoid blocking filler ports and a latching device to prevent accidental opening. Under -coating shall 
be provided and applied to the battery box. The battery tray is to  be equipped with a safety 
device  to keep  the tray from  sliding  completely  out. 
 
13.2 On Type  A buses  equipped  with  more  than  one battery,  all batteries  should  be positioned  in one 
location.  
 
13.3 Battery labels shall be placed at all locations where batteries are  installed.  
 
13.4 Batteries  shall  be equipped  with  sufficient  battery  cable  to allow  the drawer- type  pull out tray to 
fully  extend.  
 
14.0 Brakes  
 
14.1 Type  C and D buses  shall be equipped  with  full compressed  air brake  systems.  Both  air drum 
brake and air disc brake applications  areacceptable.  11  14.2 Air brakes:  
 
14.02(a) Compressors: On buses using full compressed air brakes for service, emergency, and 
parking brakes, the compressor shall be a standard production model with a 
minimum 12 cubic foot per minutedisplacement.  
 
14.02(b) Moisture ejection valve: An automatic heated, moisture ejection valve or air drying 
system shall be properly installed. This is made to automatically eject moisture,  
sludge, and/or foreign matter and maintain clean, dry air lines.  
 
14.02(c) Control requirements: The control valve of the parking brake systemshall be 
designed and constructed to conform with thefollowing:  
 
14.02(c)(1) The parking brake control valve shall be visible to the driver and shall be 
mounted on the dash panel within 15 inches to the right of the steering 
column.  
 
15.0 Bumpers  
 
15.1 Front bumper  shall:  
 
15.01(a) Be at least 3/16 inch thick of pressed steel cha nnel, one piececonstruction with 
minimum of eight -inch width (high), except Type A buses under 14,500 GWVR.  
 
15.01(b) Be of extended design to offermaximum protection of fender lines without 
permitting snagging or hooking.  
 
15.01(c) Be attached to the fram e and extend forward of grille, head lamps,fender or hood 
sections to provide maximumprotection.  
 
15.01(c) Be of sufficient strength to ensure that the front of the bus may belifted by 
means of a bumper type jack without permanent deformation of thebumper.  
 
15.2 Rear bumper  shall:  
15.02(a) Be of pressed steel channel or equivalent material, at least 3/16 -inchthick, and shall 
be a minimum of eight inches wide (high) on Type A buses and shall be a minimum of 9  
½ inches wide (high) on Type B, C and D buses.  
 
15.02(b) Be wrapped around back corners of bus and extend forward at least 12 inches from 
the rear -most point of the body at the floor line.  
 
15.2 © Be fastened to chassis frame side rails in such a manner as to develop the full strength 
of bumper  section  from  rear or side impact.  Bracing  materials  shall have  an impact  ratio 
comparable to that of the bumper material and shall be fastened at the ends and radii 
of the bumper,  attached  to the side of the frame  only,  and not to the body  at any point.  
 
15.02(d) Extend beyond the rear -most part of body surface at least one inch,measured at 
floor lines.  
 
15.0 2(e) Not allow any spaces, projections, or cut -outs that will permit a hand hold or foot hold.  12  15.02(f) Have the front ends enclosed by end caps or other protective metal or have the ends 
rounded or tucked in and shall be free from sharp edge s or projections likely to cause 
injury or snagging.  
 
15.02(g) Have a gasket, rubber or equivalent, installed to close the opening between the top of 
the rear bumper and body metal.  
 
15.02(h) Be of sufficient strength to permit being pushed by another vehicle of similar size. The 
bumper shall be of sufficient  strength to ensure that the rear of the bus may be lifted by 
means of a bumper type jack without permanent deformation of the bumper.  
 
15.3 Bumper stickers and/or signage are considered advertising. Consistent with Rule 30.09(a), 
advertising must have prior written CDE  approval.  
 
15.03(a) One bumper sticker, no larger than 3.75 inches by 15 inches, may be included on the rear 
bumper of school transportation vehicles.  
 
15.03(b) An American flag sticker, no larger than 7 inches by 11 inches, may be included on 
school transportation v ehicles, consistent with the limitations outlined in Rule 30.09(a).  
 
15.03(c) Bumper stickers and/or signage shall not be located in the rear windows of the school 
transportation vehicles.  
 
15.03(d) Bumper stickers and/or signage that do not comply with th e above exemptions will 
need to be remediated.  
 
16.0 Color  
 
16.1 All exterior  metal  shall  be painted  National School  Bus Glossy  Yellow  (NSBY)  except  for: 
16.01(a) Lettering and numbering shall be black, white, or yellow for bumper area. 
16.01(b) Bumpers and frame shall be  black.  
16.01(b)(1) Exception: Bumpers may be colored blue or green to reflect the type of fuel 
being used in the vehicle.  
 
16.01(c) Rub r ails shall be black or yellow.  
 
16.01(c)(1) Exception: Rub rails may be colored blue or green on an electric vehicle (EV) or to reflect the type of fuel being used in the vehicle.  
 
16.01(d) Background area for alternating flashing warning lamps shall be black.  
 
16.01(e) The roof of the bus may be painted white, not to extend below the drip rails on the 
sides of the body.  
 
16.01(f) Student window frames, posts and service door frame may beblack. 
16.01(g) The hood of a bus may be painted matte black.  13  17.0 Cooling  System  
 
17.1 Permanent ethylene- glycol base or environmentally safe equivalent anti- freeze shall be 
provided to protect the cooling system to - 30 degrees Fahrenheit when tested at normal 
engine  temperature.  
 
17.2 Cooling  system  shall be equipped  with  a visual fluid  level  indicator.  
 
18.0 Defrosters  
 
18.1 A defroster  system  shall be installed  of sufficient  capacity  to keep  the windshield  area,  the left 
front side window to the rear of the driver's vision, and the service door glass area free of 
condensation or  ice. 
 
18.2 The defrost ing system  shall  conform  to the requirements  of the Society  of Automotive  Engineers,  Inc. (SAE) 
J381- 202006.  
 
18.3 A minimum of one and no more than three adjustable six -inch auxiliary fans shall be installed 
to complement the defroster system used by the manufacturer. Such fans shall be controlled 
individually by two -speed switches located on control panel. Fan blades  shall be covered with 
a protective  cage.  
 
18.03(a) The fans shall be located to not interfere with the driver’s horizontal line of sight 
vision.  
 
19.0 Doors  
 
19.1 The service door shall be power or manually operated, under control of the driver, and so 
designed to afford easy release and prevent accidental opening. When the manual lever is 
used, no parts shall come together to shear or  crushfingers.  
 
19.2 Manual door controls shall not require more than 25 pounds of force to operate at any point throughout the range of o peration as tested on a 10% grade both uphill and downhill. Power 
door  controls  shall be located  within  easy  access  of the driver.  
 
19.3 The service door  shall be located  on the right side  of the bus  opposite  the driver  and within  the 
driver’s direct  view.  
 
19.4 Power operated doors shall be equipped with a separate manual emergency release, readily 
accessible in the door area, either above the service door, to the side of the service door or on 
the dash,  so that the door  may  be opened  in event of an emergency.  The release  shall be plainly 
labeled with instructions for use. 
 
19.5 There shall be a head bumper pad installed on the inside at the top of the entrance door. The pad shall be approximately three inches wide (high), at least one inch thick, and extend across the entire top of the service door  opening.  
 
20.0 Drive  Shaft  
 
20.1 Each  drive shaft  or section  thereof  shall be equipped  with  adequate  metal  guard(s)  to 
prevent  whipping through  the floor  or dropping to the ground,  if broken.  14  21.0 Electric Drive High Voltage Specs  (EV) 
 
21.1 An electric -powered school transportation vehicle shall meet all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety 
Standards and all SAE standards that are applicable at the time of  manufacture.  
 
21.2 EV-Specific  Labeling  
 
21.02(a) Each door, cover, or other panels that affords immediate access to any high voltage area 
shall be plainly marked with a hazard warning label which shall read WARNING— HIGH 
VOLTAGE or DANGER —HIGH VOLTAGE. This label shall be in a highly conspicuous place. All 
high -voltage access areas shall be equipped with a lock or otherwise secured to prevent 
unauthorized access.  
 
21.02(b) An EV identifying label shall be affixed to the right rear corner of the bus body. An 
additional label shall be applied to the  right side of the bus rearward of the entrance door 
and to the left side of the bus aft of the driver's window.  
 
21.3 EV High Voltage Drive System  Batteries  
21.03(a) EV High Voltage Batteries shall not be in or accessible from the interior of the school bus. 
21.03(b) Energy storage for the EV High Voltage Drive System shall be protected from crash impacts  
and shall be encased in a non -conductive, acid -resistant compartment. This compartment 
shall be well-ventilated to preclude the possibility of hydrogen gas bu ildup. Energy storage 
shall be in an area and in such a way as to provide ease of service.  
 
21.03(c) EV High Voltage Batteries shall require automatic electrical isolation in the case of a 
vehicle crash.  
 
21.03(d) EV High Voltage -Powered Vehicles: Buses utilizing a high voltage propulsion system (more 
than 48 nominal volts) shall meet the requirements of FMVSS 305,  Electric Powered 
Vehicles: Electrolyte Spillage and Electrical Shock Protection, except for the following:  
 
21.03(d)(1) The propulsion power source (batteries, fuel cells, etc.) shall be located outside 
the passenger compartment.  
 
21.03(d)(2) The propulsion power source enclosure shall be constructed to conform to the 
power source manufacturer’s requirements and  recommendations.  
 
21.03(d)(3) Due to the much larger size and quantities of the propulsion power sources on 
larger vehicles, buses over 10,000 lbs. are permitted to exceed the 5.0 - liter spillage. 
Electrolyte damage from propulsion batteries and the requirements to statically 
rotate the vehicle on its longitudinal axis post - test.  
 
21.4 EV High Voltage Wiring Standards and Protection  
 
21.04(a) Wire, cable, and conductor insulation in the High Voltage System shall provide adequate 
insulation for the voltage used and for ambient temperatures ranging from - 15 degrees 
Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. All high voltage circuits shall be bright orange in color or otherwise labeled as HIGH VOLTAGE. All high -voltage circuits shall provide 
adequate and automatic prot ection against electrical overloads caused by short circuits or  15  other excessive current conditions through the use of fuses, circuit breakers, and ground 
fault interruption. 
 
21.04(b) The EV Drive System shall have a system for protecting sys tem components from thermal 
damage due to electrical overload. This system shall include temperature sensors at critical 
points and be capable of reducing EV Drive System electrical power when necessary.  
 
21.04(c) The EV High Voltage System shall be designed so that when the ignition switch is off or in 
accessory mode, the propulsion motor is positively disconnected. All other accessories powered by the main propulsion battery circuit shall remain operable when the ignition 
switch is in accessory mode. 
 
21.04(d) All buses shall be equipped with an additional manual and automatic switch or device 
independent of the propulsion motor disconnect controls that permit the positive 
disconnection of all circuits fro m the Drive System Batteries. This switch shall be operable 
from outside the vehicle. Each door or panel providing access to this switch shall be plainly 
marked to indicate that it is a main -power -disconnect switch or device.  
 
21.04(e) The ignition switch circuit shall be linked to the Battery Management System and shall 
prevent driving the vehicle while it is connected to an external battery charging source.  
 
21.04(f)Charging connection point shall be outside the passenger compartment.  
 
21.04(g) The High V oltage System shall be designed to prevent the passenger compartment from 
becoming energized.  
 
21.04(h) Battery packs shall be cooled and heated as necessary to maintain proper operating 
temperatures.  
 
21.5 EV Instrumentation  
 
21.05(a) In addition to the required gauges, the instrument display panel must also contain an 
indication showing the state of charge (power and/or range).  
 
21.05(b) The instrument display panel shall have a warning light that indicates when an EV Drive 
System component exceeds a safe temperature. The warning light should illuminate prior to critical temperature to allow sufficient time to safely stop the bus.  
 
21.05(c) The instrument display panel shall have a warning light that indicates when an EV Drive 
System has a mechanical or electrical fault.  
 
21.6 EV Range  
 
21.06(a) All electric school buses shall have an OEM design which is capable of operating with a 
rang e of 100 miles or more on a full charge.  
 
21.7 Sound Generation  
 
21.07(a) All electric school buses shall comply with FMVSS 141 producing sound while in motion 
below 20 mph.  16  21.8 Propulsion  System  
 
21.08(a) The propulsion system on all electric school bu ses shall be of sufficient power to propel the 
vehicle fully loaded up to 65 mph.  
 
21.08(b) The propulsion system may be mounted utilizing a normal drivetrain or positioned in a way 
to provide direct power to the wheels. All propulsion systems must be contained below the 
floor line and cannot come into contact with the road surface.  
 
21.9 Brakes  
 
21.09(a) On electric school buses, brakes may produce regenerated power. 
21.09(b) Park brake testing procedure:  
21.09(b)(1) Allow the brake system air pressure to build to at least 100 psi  
 
21.09(b)(2) Place the drive selector of the vehicle in low ge ar release the parking brake and 
drive the vehicle forward to a speed of three (3) to five (5) mph.  
 
21.09(b)(3) While in motion place the vehicle in neutral and engage the parking brake and 
the vehicle should stop.  
 
21.10  Passenger Heating  system  
 
21.10(a) On e lectric school buses the heating system must be capable of meeting performance and 
design standards without a fuel -fired heater. See Section 29.0.  
 
21.10(b) Heating systems that are independent of other cooling system functions may forgo the use 
of manual shutoff valves to the passenger compartment as long as the flow of coolant can 
be stopped by means of a heating system shut down or an electric heat er control valve.  
 
22.0 Emergency  Exits  
 
22.1 All emergency exits shall conform to FMVSS  217.  
 
22.2 A district  may  choose  to have  more  emergency  exits  installed.  Emergency  doors  may  be 
installed in place of emergency  windows.  
 
22.3 Emergency  door:  
 
22.03(a)  Emergency door(s) shall be equipped with a three -point  latch  mechanism.The  
inside  door  handle  shall be designed  with  a guard  for protection  against  accidental 
release.  
 
22.03(b)  Exterior door handle shall be of permanent hitch -proof design  andmounted  with  
enough clearance to permit opening withouttouching the door  surface.  
 
22.03(c)  All emergency  door  openings  shall be completely  weather  stripped.  No 
obstruction shall be higher than 1/4 inch across the bottom of any emergency door  opening.  17  22.03(d)  A head  bumper  pad shall be installed  over  the emergency  door  on the inside  of the 
bus body. The pad shall be approximately three inches wide ( high), at least one 
inch  thick,  and extend  across  the entire top of the emergency  door  opening.  
Padding shall be of the same materials as the padding used over the servicedoor.  
 
22.03(e)  The rear emergency door shall contain upper and lower glass panels  which comply  
with FMVSS 205. Glass in the emergency door shall provide the maximum area of 
visibility for the safe operation of the  bus. 
 
22.03(f)  The emergency window glass shall meet FMVSS 205. Glass shall be tempered  
unless specified laminated by the  purchaser.  
 
23.0 Emergency  Equipment  
 
23.1 All school transportation vehicles, except for small capacity vehicles, shall be equipped with at least 
one pressurized, five -pound, dry -chemical fire extinguisher, with a total rating of n ot less than 
2A10BC. The operating mechanism shall be sealed with a type of seal that will not interfere with use of the  fireextinguisher.  
 
23.01(a) Fire extinguisher shall be securely mounted in an extinguisher bracket (automotive 
type) and located in full view of and readily accessible to the driver within the cab, 
or in a location plainly indicated by appropriate signage. A pressure gauge shall be 
so mounted on the extinguisher as to be easily read without removing the extinguisher from its mountedposition.  
 
23.01(b) Fire extinguishers shall be inspected annually for charging and certification to standards by 
a certified fire extinguisher te chnician.  
 
23.2 Small capacity vehicles shall be equipped with one securely mounted, 2½ pound, dry chemical fire 
extinguisher with a minimum rating of 1A10BC.  
 
23.3 First Aid Kit: All school transportation vehicles shall carry one first aid kit which shall be secure ly 
mounted in full view  of the driver or with  the location  plainly  indicated  by appropriate  signage. 
Additional kits may be installed. The kit(s) shall be mounted for easyremoval.  
 
23.02(a)  The kit shall be sealed. The seal verifies  the integrity  of the contents  without  opening 
the kit. The seal shall be designed to allow easy access to the kit’scontents. If zip ties 
are used to seal the kit, they must be breakaway zip  ties.  
 
23.03(b) Consideration should be given to replacing items in the First Aid Kit e very 36 months due 
to the breakdown of materials.  
 
Contents of the 24 -unit First Aid Kit:  
 
Item  Unit(s)  
Adhesive Tape  1 
1 inch adhesive bandage  2 
2 inch bandage compress  1 
3 inch bandage compress  1 
4 inch bandage compress  1 
3 inch x 3 inch plain gauze pads  1 
Gauze roller bandage 2 inch wide  2 18  Plain absorbent gauze – ½ square yard  4 
Plain absorbent gauze – 24 inch x 72 inch  3 
Triangular bandages  4 
Scissors, tweezers  1 
Space rescue blanket  1 
Non -latex disposable pair of gloves  1 
CPR mask or mouth to mouth airway  1 
Moisture and dustproof kit of sufficient capacity to store the required items.  
 
23.4 Emergency Reflectors: All school transportation vehicles shall carry three bidirectional emergency triangle 
reflectors  in compliance  with  Section  42-4-230,  C.R.S.  and with  FMVSS  125,  contained  in a securely  mounted 
case  easily  accessible  to the driver  or in a location  plainly  indicated  by appropriate  markings.  
23.5 Body fluid cleanup kit: All school transportation vehicles shall have one removable 
body  fluid  clean -up kit accessible  to the driver,  within  the cab, or in a location  plainly 
indicated by appropriate  signage. 
 
Contents of the Basic Body Fluid Clean -up Kit:  
 
Item  
Antiseptic towelette  
Disinfectant towelette  
Absorbing powder (capable of ½ gallon absorption)  
Non -latex disposable pair of gloves  
Disposable wiper towels  
Disposable scoop bag with closure mechanism and scraper  
Moisture and dustproof container of sufficient capacity to store the required items.  
 
23.6 Consideration should be given to replacing items in the Body Fluid Clean -Up Kit every 36 months 
due to the breakdown of  materials.  
 
23.7 All school  transportation  vehicles  shall be equipped  with  one durable  webbing cutter  having a 
full width handgrip and a protected blade. The cutter shall be mounted in a location 
accessible to the seated  driver.  
 
23.07(a) Seat belt cutters shall be replaced after the y have been used, or if there is any sign of rust 
or corrosion on the blade.  
 
23.8 Emergency  equipment  shall  be securely  mounted,  clearly  visible  or in a location  plainly 
indicated by appropriate  signage.  
 
24.0 Exhaust  System  
 
24.1 Tailpipe shall not exit the right side of the  busbody.  
 
24.2 Exhaust  system  shall be insulated  in a manner  to prevent  any damage  to any fuel system 
component.  
 
24.3 There shall be a switch  to manually  start  the diesel  particulate  filter  regeneration  process. 
 
24.4 The tailpipe shall be flush with but not extend more than one inch beyond the perimeter of the body  for side exit or the bumper  for rear exit.  
 
24.5 Tailpipe  shall not exit beneath  any fuel filler location  or beneath  any emergency  door  or lift door.  19  25.0 Floor  Coverings  
 
25.1 The floor in the under -seat area, including tops of wheel housings, driver's compartment,aisle, 
and the kick board  shall be covered  with  fire-resistant  rubber  floor covering  or equivalent  that is 
non- skid and wear  resistant.  
25.2 The floor covering in the aisle shall be fire -resistant rubber or equivalent, non -skid, wear 
resistant,  and ribbed.  The minimum  overall thickness  shall be .1875 inch  measured  from  the 
tops of the ribs.  
 
25.3 The floor covering shall be permanently bonded to the floor and must not crack when subjected 
to sudden changes in temperature. Bonding or adhesive material shall be waterproof and shall 
be of the type recommended by the manufacturer of floor -covering mate rial. All seams must be 
sealed with waterproof  sealer.  
 
25.4 Cove  molding or new and emerging  coatings  shall be used  along  the side walls  and rear 
corners. All floor seam separations shall be properly bonded  orsecured.  
 
25.5 The entrance step treads, including the edge at floor level, shall be of the same quality as 
the aisle material. Step treads shall have an integral white or yellow nosing of 1 ½ inch or more or use diagonal stripes. Treads shall be permanently bonded to the metal steps  and 
sealed to prevent water  from getting underneath the  steptread.  
 
25.5(a) New and emerging coatings may be used in lieu of step treads but shall incorporate 
white or yellow nosing.  
 
25.6 A sealed and insulated plate shall be provided when required to access fuel tank sending unit. The plate  shall not be installed  under  flooring material.  Type  A buses  14,500 GVWR  and under 
are exempt.  
 
26.0 Frame  
 
26.1 No holes  shall be permitted  in the chassis  rails except when  drilled  at the manufacturing plant  or 
authorized by  themanufacturer.  
 
26.2 Any welding to the frame  side rails that is necessary  by design  to strengthen,  modify  or 
alter basic vehicle configuration shall be authorized and documented by the 
manufacturer.  
 
27.0 Fuel  System  
 
27.1 All fuel tank  specifications  shall conform  to FMVSS 301,  FMVSS 303,  FMVSS  305,  National Fire 
Protection Ass ociation code 52, and/or National Fire Protection Association code 58, as 
applicable.  
 
27.2 Engine supply line shall not be mounted below the fueltank. Wiring shall be hidden whenever 
possible.  
 
27.3 The fuel fill cap opening in the body skirt shall be equipped with a hinged cover held closed by 
a spring or other conveniently operated. Type A buses under 14,500 GVWR and small capacity vehicles are  exempt.  20  28.0 Handrail  
 
28.1 For type A, B, C and D buses an assist handrail not less than 20 inches in length designed to provide 
maximum  loading assistance,  shall  be provided  in an unobstructed  location  inside  the service  door.  
 
28.2 At least one handrail shall be installed inside the se rvice door. The handrail shall be a minimum of 
one inch in diameter and be constructed from corrosion -resistant material(s). The handrail(s) shall 
assist passengers during entry or exit and shall be designed to prevent entanglement, as evidenced 
by the pas sing of the NHTSA String and Nut  test.  
 
28.3 The handrail may be offered in a color provided by and applied by the  manufacturer.  
 
29.0 Heating  System  
 
29.1 All school  buses  shall be equipped  with  two or more  hot water  heaters  capable  of delivering  water 
to the system at a rate of six gallons per minute using an ambient temperature of 0 degrees 
Fahrenheit to +10 degrees Fahrenheit and maintaining passenger compartment temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit. One of the heaters shall be in the rear half of the bus on or behind the 
rear wheel  axle line.  This standard  must  be obtained  without  a secondary  heating  source.  
 
29.01(a) Lift equipped buses may place the rear heater under the last row of seats or wall 
mount. The front heater may be wallmounted.  
 
29.2 Buses shall be equipped with front heater(s) and integrated defroster system of capacity to provide 
heat for the front part of the bus (including driver’s compartment) and to keep windshield area, service  door  glass,  driver’s  left glass  area and step  well clear of moisture,  ice and snow.  
29.3 Heater cores and fans shall be completely encased but designed to permit servicing heater 
assembly by removing all or part of thecase.  
 
29.4 Heater hose installation in the engine compartment shall include two shut -off valves sh utting 
off coolant completely  whennecessary.  
 
29.04(a) One shut -off valve mounted between the water pump outlet and heater hose 
connection.  
 
29.04(b) One shut -off valve mounted between the motor block and the return heater hose 
connection.  
 
29.04(c) Heater hoses shall be adequately supported to guard against excessive wear due to 
vibration. Hoses shall not rub against the chassis, body or other edges.  
 
29.5 The body manufacturer shall add the required amount of permanent ethylene glycol base or environmentally  safe equivalent  anti-freeze  after  heaters  have  been  connected  to protect  the 
cooling system of the bus to - 30 degrees Fahrenheit tested at normal  enginetemperature.  
 
 
29.6 A heater  water  flow  regulating  valve  shall be installed  for convenient  operation  by the driver.  
 
30.0 Identification  21  30.1 School buses shall the bear words “SCHOO L BUS” in black letters at least eight inches high  
on both the front and rear of the body. Lettering shall be placed without impairment of its 
visibility. All lettering shall conform to Standard Alphabets for Highway Signs, Series B 2000. Lettering shall have a retro -reflective NSBY material background pursuant to Rule  36.1.  
 
30.2 School buses shall bear the name of the school district/service provider on each side of the 
bus. The lettering must be black, standard, unshaded letters, and at least five inches in 
height. If there is insufficient space due to the length of the name of t he school district, 
terms such as community, consolidated, and district may  beabbreviated.  
 
30.3 Small- capacity vehicles shall bear the name of the school district, charter school, or service 
provider plainly visible on each side of the  vehicle.  
 
30.4 The manufacturer’s  original rated  capacity  of the vehicle  shall be printed  to the left of the service 
door  on the lower skirt in two -inch characters. The word “capacity” may be abbreviated. 
(Example: Cap.  48) 
 
30.5 The numbering of individual  buses  for identification  purposes  is permissible.  
 
30.6 Lettering  and numerals  shall  be painted  or may  be pressure  sensitive  marking  of 
similar performance  quality.  
 
30.7 “STOP” shall be printed on the rear of the bus in letters at least eight inches high. “ON 
FLASHING RED” shall be printed below “STOP,” in letters at least 4 ½ inches high. An LED 
message panel giving safet y messages to alert motorists may be used instead of the above 
lettering.  These  letters  shall  be placed  in area(s)  visible  to the approaching motorist.  
 
30.8 The school  district  logo  may  be placed  above  the side window  drip line or along  the side of 
the bus but shall  not interfere  with  any required  lettering.  
 
30.9 Only signs and lettering specifically permitted by state law or regulation, and any 
marking  necessary  for safety  and identification,  shall appear  on the outside  of the bus. 
 
30.09(a) Advertising, approv ed by the local board of education orcharter school’s 
governing board, may appear only on the side(s) of the bus in the following areas:  
30.09(a)(1) The location and securement of the advertising shall have prior written 
CDE approval.  
 
30.09(a)(2) The sign s shall not extend from the body to allow ahandhold or present 
a danger to pedestrians.  
 
30.09(a)(3) The signs shall not interfere with the operation of any door, window, 
required lettering, lamps, reflectors or otherdevices.  
 
30.09(a)(4) The signs shall not be placed on side emergency door(s).  
 
30.09(a)(5) Advertising signs shallnot interfere with retro -reflective tape on the side of 
the bus.  
 
30.09(a)(6) Bumper stickers and/or signage are considered advertising. Consistent  22  with Rule 30.09(a)(1), advertising shall have prior written  CDE approval.  
 
30.10  The exterior of the battery compartment shall be labeled with the word“Battery”.  
 
30.11  Identification  of fuel type  shall be located  outside  and adjacent  to the fuel filler opening.  
 
30.12  Multifunction buses shall bear the words “ACTIVITY BUS” in blac k letters at least 8 inches high on 
both the front and rear of the body. Lettering shall be placed without impairment of its visibility. 
All lettering shall conform to Standard Alphabets for Highway Signs, Series B 2000.  
 
31.0 Insulation 
 
31.1 The bus body shall be fully insulated in the roof including roof bows and all body panels. 
Insulation  one-inch  minimum  thickness  shall  be fiber- glass  or equivalent  and fire resistant.  
 
32.0 Lamps and Signals  
 
32.1 All lamps, signals, reflectors and their installation shall conform to the requirements of the 
Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc. (SAE) J2442. No lettering, symbols or arrows, except 
manufacturer's markings, shall be on any  lens.  
 
32.2 Tail and stop (brake)  lamps:  
 
32.02(a) Bus shall be equipped with four combination red stop/taillamps. Two combination 
stop lamps shall have a lens diameter of at least seven inches or 38.48 square inches. Two combination tail lamps shall have a lens diameter of at least four inches or 12  
½ square inches.  
 
32.02(b) If the bus is equipped with a retarder, secondary braking system/or another 
system that supplements the service brake system, the four brake lamps shallbe 
illuminated when the braking system or other supplemental syst em is activated.  
 
32.3 Interior lamps:  Interior  lamps  shall be provided  which  adequately  illuminate  aisle.  A separate 
lamp shall be provided in the  stepwell.  
 
32.4 Back -up lamps:  Back -up lamps  shall  have  a lens diameter  of at least  seven  inches  or 38.48 
square inches, or four -inch LED shall be  provided.  
32.5 Turn signal  lamps:  
 
32.05(a) The bus shall be equipped with two amber turn signals in front andtwo amber turn 
signals in the rear. Rear turn signals shall be at least seven inches or a total of 38.48  
square inches in diameter.  
 
32.05(b) On buses over 30 feet, a minimum of one additional turn signal shall be mounted on 
each side below window and behind the service door axis plane.  
 
32.6 All school buses shall be equipped with an alternating flashing eight -way warning signal lamp 
system.  
 
32.7 The amber flashing warning signal lamps shall be energized manuallyby a switch.  The flashing 
red warning  signal lamp  system  shall be a sequential  mode  type.  23  32.8 The flashing  warning  signal lamp  system  shall have  two pilot  or indicator lights;  one shall show 
amber  light  when  the amber  signal lamps  are flashing  and the other  shall  show  red light  when 
the red signal lamps  areflashing.  
 
32.08 (a) The areas around the lens of each alternating flashing signal lamp shall be black.  
 
32.06(b) Visors shall be provided and securely mounted to adequately shade and protect the 
dual -lamp  assemblies  from  sunlight  above  but not to obstruct  the rear and side effectiveness 
of the warning lamps. LED warning signal lamps are not required to  usevisors.  
 
32.7 Type  D rear engine  buses  shall have  two hazard  lamps  each  visible  to the rear when  the engine 
door is open. The lamps shall be wired to be illuminated when the main hazard lamp circuit is 
energized.  
 
32.8 A white flashing strobe light may be installed on the roof of a school bus. Amber lens may be 
used upon approval of local traffic regulatory au thority. The light shall have a single clear lens 
emitting light 360 degrees around its vertical axis and may not extend above the roof more than 
eight inches. A manual switch and a pilot light must be included to indicate when light is in operation.  The lamp  must  not be capable  of activating  emergency  traffic  control  light  switches.  
 
33.0 Mirrors  
 
33.00  Exterior mirrors shall meet FMVSS  111.  
 
34.0 Mounting, Body, and Chassis  
 
34.1 Insulation  material shall be placed  at all attachment points  between  the body  and chassis  frame 
on all buses and shall be so attached to the chassis frame or body to prevent movement under severe operating  conditions.  
 
34.2 The body  front  shall be attached  and sealed  to the chassis  cowl  to prevent  the entry  of moisture  and 
gases.  
 
35.0 Multifunction School Activity  Bus 
 
35.1 A Multifunction School Activity Bus, pursuant to Rule 7.8, shall meet the standards contained in these Minimum Standards. The Multifunction School Activity Bus shall comply with the following:  
 
35.01(a)  Color shall not be  traditionally National School Bus Glossy  Yellow as 
required by Rule 16.1 of these  rules.  
 
35.01(b)  Shall not have the identification of “SCHOOL BUS”, as required by  Rule  30.1  
of these  rules.  
 
35.01(c)  Shall not have the identification of “STOP ON FLASHING RED” as  required  by 
Rule 30.7 of these  rules.  
 
35.01(d)  Shall not have a School Bus eight -way alternating flashing  warning  signal 
lamps, as required by Rule 32.6 of these  rules.  24  35.01(e)  Shall not have a stop signal arm, as required by Rule 41.1 of these  rules.  
 
35.01(f)  Shall not be required to have the retro -reflective material color,  as required  
by Rule  36.3.  
 
35.01(f)(1) Exception: A Multifunction School Activity Bus is required to meet 
the requirements of Rule 36.4.  
36.0 Retro -Reflective  Material  
 
36.1 Retro -Reflective material shall be installed  on the bus conforming to the requirements  of 
FMVSS 131 and  217.  
 
36.2 Rear of bus body: strips of between one - and two-inch Retro -Reflective NSBY material shall be 
applied horizontally above the rear windows and above the rear bumper, extending from the rear 
emergency exit perimeter marking outward to the left and right rear corners of the bus, with 
vertical strips applied at t he corners connecting the horizontal  strips.  
 
36.3 “School Bus” signs: Shall be marked with Retro -ReflectiveNSBY material comprising 
background  for lettering  of the front  and/or  rear “school  bus”  signs.  
 
36.4 Sides of multifunction bus body shall be marked with whit e retro -reflective material at least 1 ¾ 
inches in width extending the length of the bus body and located (vertically) as close as practicable to the floor line.  
 
36.5 Sides of school bus body: Shall be marked with Retro -Reflective NSBY material at least 1 ¾ 
inches in width, extending the length of the bus body and located (vertically) as close as 
practicable to the floor line.  
 
37.0 Rub Rails  
 
37.1 There shall be one rub rail located on each side of bus at approximately seat level which shall 
extend from rear side of service door completely around the bus body (except for emergency 
and/or  access  door)  to point  of curvature  near  outside  cowl  on left side.  
 
37.2 There shall be one rub rail located at approximately floor line which shall cover the same 
longitudinal areas  as the upper  rub rail, except  at the wheel  housing,  and shall extend  at least  to 
the radii of right and left rear corners.  
 
37.3 There shall be one rub rail located  on each  side of bus at the bottom  of the side skirts,  or a 
side skirt stiffener of equivalent  strength.  
 
37.4 Rub rails shall be attached  at each  body  post  and all other  upright  structural members.  
 
37.5 Rub rails shall be four inches  or more  in width,  16-gauge  steel,  or equivalent  strength, 
constructed in corrugated or ribbed fashion and shall  beself -draining.  
 
37.6 Rub rails shall be applied  to the outside  of the body  panels.  Pressed -in or snap -on rub rails do not 
satisfy this  requirement.  25  38.0 Seats/Restraining  Barriers  
 
38.1 Type  A school  buses  shall be equipped  with  restraining  barriers  conforming  to FMVSS 222.  
 
38.2 No bus shall be equipped with any type of seats that are not secured to the floor by the 
manufacturer.  
 
38.3 Forward -most pupil seat on the right side of the bus shall be located not to interfere with 
driver's vision. The seat shall not be farther forward than the barrier behind the driver or the 
rear of the driver's  seat when  adjusted  to its rear- most  position.  
 
38.4 Use of a flip seat  at any side emergency  door  location  in conformance  with  FMVSS  222,  including 
required aisle width to side door, is acceptable. Any flip seat shall be free of sharp projections on the underside of the seat bottom. The underside of the flip -up seat bottoms shall be padded 
or contoured to reduce the possibility of snagged clothing or injury during use. Flip seats shall 
be constructed to p revent passenger limbs from becoming entrapped between the seat back 
and the seat cushion when in the upright position. The seat cushion shall be designed to rise to 
a vertical position automatically when  notoccupied.  
 
38.4 School bus student seats and seat spacing shall meet  FMVSS222.  
 
38.5 School bus seat materials shall meet FMVSS  302.  
 
38.6 Integrated child seats shall not be installed at an emergency  exit.  
 
38.7 Each  individual  wheelchair securement  system  shall consist  of materials  from  one brand  only.  
 
39.0 Steering Gear  Assembly  
 
39.1 All school  bus chassis, in all passenger  capacities  shall  be equipped  with  heavy -duty,  truck -type 
integral power  steering.  Power  steering  components  shall be compatible  with  the GVW rating.  
 
39.2 No changes  shall be made  in the steering  apparatus  that are not authorized  in 
writing by  manufacturer.  
 
39.3 There shall be a clearance  of at least  two inches  between  the steering  wheel  and any other 
surface or control.  
 
40.0 Steps  
 
40.1 The first service  door  step  shall be not less than  ten inches  from  the ground  while  the vehicle  is 
in motion and not more than 16 inches from the ground when measured from the top surface 
of the step to the ground. An auxiliary step may be provided to compensate for the increase in ground -to-first step clearance. The auxiliary step is not required to be  enclosed.  
 
40.2 Step  risers  shall not exceed  a height  of 10 inches.  When  plywood  is used  on the top step,  the 
riser height may be increased by the thickness of  thewood.  
 
40.3 The surface  of steps  shall be of non-skid material.  
 
41.0 Stop Signal  Arm  26  41.1 The stop  signal arm shall  meet  FMVSS  131.  The stop  signal  arm may  extend  up to but shall not 
exceed 6.5 feet in length from the side of the bus. 
 
41.2 Rubber  spacers  shall be installed  on either  the side of the bus or the stop  arm to  prevent  the 
sign from making abrasive contact with the side of thebus.  
 
41.3 The wind guard shall be provided to keep the sign in  retractedposition.  
 
42.0 Storage  Compartment  
 
42.1 A metal container of adequate strength and capacity for the storage of tire chains, tow 
chains, and such tools as may be necessary for minor emergency repairs while the bus is in route may be provided. The storage container may be located either inside or outside the 
passenger compartment. If inside, the storage compartment shall be securely fastened to 
prevent  the contents  from  spilling  and shall have  a latched  or secured  cover  other  than  a seat 
cushion.  
 
43.0 Sun Visor  
 
43.1 An interior,  adjustable,  sun visor  shall be installed  not less than  six inches  wide  and 30 inches 
long. Type A school buses 14,500 GVWR or less shall have a sun visor according to 
manufacturer ’s standard  size.  
 
44.0 Tires and Rims  
 
44.1 Minimum tire and rim sizes for vehicles with a 10,000 GVWR or greater, shall be in accordance 
with  FMVSS120.  
 
44.2 Type B, C and D schoolbuses shall have dual rear tires.  
 
44.3 All wheels  shall be one-piece  disc type.  
 
45.0 Tow  Hooks  
 
45.1 Two  heavy  duty  tow hooks/loops  shall be factory  installed  on the front  of Type  C and D 
buses.  
 
45.2 Two  heavy -duty  tow hooks/loops  shall be factory  installed  on the rear of school  buses.  
 
45.3 Hooks/loops shall not extend beyond the front or rear bumper on any school  bus. 
 
46.0 Undercoating  
 
46.1 The entire underside of the bus body, including floor sections, cross members, and below floor line side panels, shall be coated with rust -proofing  material.  
 
46.2 The undercoating material shall be applied with suitable airless or conventional spray equipment as per manufacturer recommended film thickness and shall show no evidence of 
voids in the cured  film.  27  46.3 The undercoating material shall not cover  any exhaust  components  of the chassis.  
 
47.0 Ventilation  
 
47.1 School transportation vehicles more than 20 feet in length shall be equipped with a multi -speed 
powered exhaust roof ventilator or powered vent fan in the roof hatch, mounted in the rear 
half of the  bus. 
 
48.0 Windshield Wipers and Washers  
 
48.1 The wipers  shall be operated  by one or more  air or electric  motors.  If one motor  is used,  the 
wipers  shall work  in tandem  to give full sweep  of the windshield.  
 
48.2 All wiper  controls  shall be located  within  easy  reach  of the driver and designed  to move 
blades  from  the driver's  direct  view  when  in the stop  position.  
 
48.3 The system  reservoir  capacity  shall be a minimum  of one gallon.  
 
49.0 Wiring  
 
49.1 All wiring  shall conform  to the requirements  of the Society  of Automotive Engineers,  Inc. (SAE) 
J2202.  
 
49.01(a) An appropriate identifying diagram (color plus a name or number code) for all chassis 
electrical circuits shall be provided to the body manufacturer for distribution to the 
end user.  
 
49.01(b) A body wiring diagram, sized to be easily read, shall be furnished with each bus body 
or affixed to an area convenient to the electrical accessory control panel.  
 
49.01(c) Each wire passing through metal openings shall be protected by agrommet.