ILLINOIS REGISTER             10838  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 1) Heading of the Part :  Minimum Safety Standards for Construction of Type II School 
Buses  
 
2) Code Citation :  92 Ill. Adm. Code 442  
 
3) Section Numbers :  Proposed Actions : 
442.110    Repealed  
442.120    Repealed  
442.130    Repealed  
442.205    Repealed  
442.208    Repealed  
442.210    Repealed  
442.213    Repealed  
442.214    Repealed  
442.215    Repealed  
442.216    Repealed  
442.218    Repealed  
442.220    Repealed  
442.230    Repealed  
442.235    Repealed  
442.240    Repealed  
442.245    Repealed  
442.250    Repealed  
442.253    Repealed  
442.255    Repealed  
442.258    Repealed  
442.259    Repealed  
442.260    Repealed  
442.265    Repealed  
442.270    Repealed  
442.275    Repealed  
442.285    Repealed  
442.290    Repealed  
442.295    Repealed  
442.300    Repealed  
442.305    Repealed  
442.310    Repealed  
442.315    Repealed  
442.320    Repealed       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10839  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 442.325    Repealed  
442.405    Repealed  
442.410    Repealed  
442.415    Repealed  
442.420    Repealed  
442.425    Repealed  
442.430    Repealed  
442.435    Repealed  
442.440    Repealed  
442.445    Repealed  
442.450    Repealed  
442.455    Repealed  
442.460    Repealed  
442.465    Repealed  
442.470    Repealed  
442.475    Repealed  
442.480    Repealed  
442.485    Repealed  
442.490    Repealed  
442.495    Repealed  
442.605    Repealed  
442.610    Repealed  
442.615    Repealed  
442.620    Repealed  
442.705    Repealed  
442.710    Repealed  
442.715    Repealed  
442.APPENDIX E   Repealed  
 
4) Statutory Authority :  Implementing Article VIII of Chapter 12 of the Illinois Vehicle 
Code [625 ILCS 5/Ch. 12, Art. VIII] and Section 14 -3(m) of the Criminal Code of 1961 
[720 ILCS 5/14 -3(m)] and authorized by Section 12 -812 of the Illinois Vehicle Code 
[625 ILCS 5/12 -812].  
 
5) A Complete Description of the Subjects and Iss ues Involved :  This Part consists of the 
construction standards for type II school buses manufactured for use in Illinois.  The 
Department is proposing to repeal this entire Part.  In connection with this rulemaking, 
the Department is proposing to repeal a nd recreate 92 Ill. Adm. Code 440 to combine the 
construction standards of type I and type II buses into one Part.       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10840  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
6) Published studies or reports, and sources of underlying data, used to compose this 
rulemaking :  None  
 
7) Will this rulemaking replace an y emergency rule currently in effect ?  No  
 
8) Does this rulemaking contain an automatic repeal date ?  No  
 
9) Does this rulemaking contain incorporations by reference ?  Yes  
 
10) Are there any other rulemakings pending on this Part ?  No  
 
11) Statement of Sta tewide Policy Objective :  This rulemaking  affect s units of local 
government (i.e., school districts) that own or operate school buses.    
 
12) Time, Place and Manner in which interested persons may comment on this proposed 
rulemaking :  Any interested party  may submit written comments or arguments 
concerning these proposed amendments  with: 
 
Greg Stucka, Rules Manager  
Illinois Department of Transportation  
Office of Chief Counsel  
2300 South Dirksen Parkway, Room 317  
Springfield  IL  62764  
 
Comments received wit hin 45 days after the date of publication of this Illinois Register  
will be considered.  Comments received after that time will be considered, time 
permitting.  
 
13) Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis : 
 
A) Types of small businesses, small municipalities and not -for-profit corporations 
affected :  These rulemakings affect small businesses that manufacture school 
buses registered for use in Illinois. These rulemakings  also affect small 
businesses, small municipalities, and not -for-profit corpo rations that own or 
operate school buses.  
 
B) Reporting, bookkeeping or other procedures required for compliance :  No impact 
is anticipated.       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10841  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
C) Types of professional skills necessary for compliance :  No impact is anticipated.  
 
14) Regulatory Agenda on which this rulemaking was summarized :  July 2017  
 
The full text of the Proposed Repealer begins on the next page : 
       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10842  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 TITLE 92:  TRANSPORTATION  
CHAPTER I:  DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
SUBCHAPTER e:  TRAFFIC SAFETY (EXCEPT HAZARDOUS MATERIALS)  
 
PART 442  
MINIMUM SAFETY STANDARDS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF  
TYPE II SCHOOL BUSES  (REPEALED)  
 
SUBPART A:  GENERAL  
 
Section  
442.110  Scope  
442.120  Definitions  
442.130  Incorporation by Reference and Certification  
 
SUBPART B:  CONSTRUCTION OF BODY  
 
Section  
442.205  Aisle  
442.208  Barriers, Guard  
442.210  Body Structure and Mounting  
442.213  Bumper, Rear  
442.214  Capacity, Passenger  
442.215  Ceiling and Side Walls  
442.216  Child Check System (Optional)  
442.218  Crossing Control Arm  
442.220  Defrosters  
442.225  Doors (Repealed)  
442.230  Emergency Exits and Door Alarms  
442.235  Floor Covering  
442.240  Glazing Materials  
442.245  Heaters  
442.250  Identification/Lettering  
442.253  Metal Treatment  
442.255  Mirrors  
442.258  Paint/Color Requirements  
442.259  Rack, Book/ Luggage  
442.260  Rub Rails  
442.265  Seat Belts, Driver's and Passengers'       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10843  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 442.270  Seating  
442.275  Service Entrance and Door  
442.280  Stanchion Guard Panel or Barrier Guard (Repealed)  
442.285  Stop Signal Arm Panel  
442.290  Tool Compartment (Purchaser's Opti on)  
442.295  Sun Visor  
442.300  Undercoating  
442.305  Ventilation  
442.310  Window Openings  
442.315  Windshield  
442.320  Windshield Wipers  
442.325  Windshield Washer  
 
SUBPART C:  CHASSIS REQUIREMENTS  
 
Section  
442.405  Air Cleaner  
442.410  Axles  
442.415  Brakes  
442.420  Bumper, Front  
442.425  Drive Shaft Guard  
442.430  Engine  
442.435  Exhaust System and Muffler  
442.440  Frame  
442.445  Fuel Tank  
442.450  Heater Connections  
442.455  Horn  
442.460  Ignition Lock  
442.465  Instruments  
442.470  Oil Filter  
442.47 5 Shock Absorbers  
442.480  Springs and Suspension  
442.485  Steering Mechanism  
442.490  Tires and Wheels  
442.495  Transmissions  
 
SUBPART D:  ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS REQUIREMENTS  
 
Section       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10844  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 442.605  Battery and Battery Compartment  
442.610  Generator or Alternator  
442.615  Lamps, Reflectors, and Signals  
442.620  Wiring  
 
SUBPART E:  EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS  
 
Section  
442.705  Fire Extinguisher (Purchaser's Option)  
442.710  First-Aid Kit (Purchaser's Option)  
442.715  Warning Devices (Optional)  
 
442.APPENDIX A  Hexagon Sh aped Stop Signal Arm (Repealed)  
442.APPENDIX B  Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Related Rules 
(Repealed)  
442.APPENDIX C  Specification for Sheet Reflective Material – Encapsulated Lens (Based 
on FHWA Notice N 5040.17, June 15, 1976) (Rep ealed)  
442.APPENDIX D  Sheeting and Tape, Reflective:  Nonexposed Lens (Repealed)  
442.APPENDIX E  Octagon Shaped Stop Signal Arm  
 
AUTHORITY:  Implementing Article VIII of Chapter 12 of the Illinois Vehicle Code [625 ILCS 
5/Ch. 12, Art. VIII] and Section 14-3(m) of the Criminal Code of 1961 [720 ILCS 5/14 -3(m)] 
and authorized by Section 12 -812 of the Illinois Vehicle Code [625 ILCS 5/12 -812].  
 
SOURCE:  Adopted at 2 Ill. Reg. 45, p. 115, effective November 10, 1978; codified at 8 Ill. Reg. 
15002; amended at  8 Ill. Reg. 15505, effective August 10, 1984; amended at 12 Ill. Reg. 4220, 
effective February 9, 1988; amended at 16 Ill. Reg. 1685, effective January 14, 1992; amended at 
17 Ill. Reg. 3540, effective March 2, 1993; amended at 18 Ill. Reg. 14789, effecti ve September 
20, 1994; amended at 26 Ill. Reg. 3255, effective February 19, 2002; amended at 31 Ill. Reg. 
8238, effective May 25, 2007; amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 18305, effective November 14, 2008; 
repealed at 41 Ill. Reg. ______, effective ____________.  
 
SUBPART A:  GENERAL  
 
Section 442.110  Scope   
 
This Part is intended to provide minimum standards for constructing and equipping new Type II 
school buses manufactured for use in Illinois. This Part assumes compliance with applicable 
Federal Motor Vehicle Safe ty Standards (FMVSS) (49 CFR 571), and the Society of Automotive      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10845  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 Engineer Standards (SAE), and implements applicable Sections of the Illinois Vehicle Code (the 
Code) [625 ILCS 5/Ch. 12, Art. VIII]. In addition, this Part sets forth certain other minimum 
standards established by the Department, and authorized by Section 12 -812 of the Code, to 
govern aspects not governed by the FMVSS, SAE Standards, or the Code.  At the request of 
school bus owners and operators, a few of the requirements in this Part relate to durability and 
maintenance of school buses rather than safety.  
 
Section 442.120  Definitions   
 
"ANSI" means the American National Standards Institute (11 West 42nd Street, 
New York NY 10036).  
 
"Body" means the portion of a bus that encloses the occupa nt and cargo spaces 
and separates those spaces from the chassis frame, engine compartment, driveline, 
and other "chassis" components, except certain chassis controls used by the 
driver.  
 
"Body -on-Chassis" means a completed vehicle consisting of a passenge r seating 
body mounted on a truck type chassis (or other separate chassis) so that the body 
and chassis are separate entities, although one may reinforce or brace the other.  
 
"Child Check System " means an optional mechanical or electronic monitoring 
system used for ensuring that no passengers remain on the school bus at the end 
of a route, a work shift, or the work day.  The system shall require the school bus 
driver to walk to the rear of the bus  to deactivate the system before the driver 
leaves the bus.  The vehicle 's interior lights must illuminate when the ignition is 
turned off to assist the driver in seeing in and under the seats during a visual 
sweep  of the bus.  (See P.A.  95-0260, effective  August 17, 2007.)  
 
"Code" means the Illinois Vehicle Code [625 ILCS 5].  
 
"Driver" means every  person who drives or is in actual physical control of a 
vehicle . (Section 1 -116 of the Code)  
 
"Empty Weight" means the unloaded vehicle weight; i.e., the weigh t of a vehicle 
with maximum capacity of all fluids necessary for operation of the vehicle but 
without cargo or occupant (49 CFR 571.3), plus 350 pounds allowance for driver 
and equipment.  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10846  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 "FMVSS" means the rules and standards set forth in 49 CFR 571 and known as 
the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.  
 
"Forward Control" means a configuration in which more than half of the engine 
length is rearward of the foremost point of the windshield base and the steering 
wheel hub is in the forward quarter of the  vehicle length (49 CFR 571.3) – 
includes mid -engine and rear -engine "pusher" buses.  
 
"Gross Vehicle Weight Rating" or "GVWR" means the value specified by the 
manufacturer as the loaded weight of the school bus.   (See Section 1 -124.5 of the 
Code.)  
 
"Inco mplete Vehicle" means an assemblage consisting, at a minimum, of frame 
and chassis structure, power train, steering system, suspension system, and 
braking system, to the extent that those systems are to be part of the completed 
vehicle, that requires furth er manufacturing operations (other than the addition of 
readily attachable components such as mirrors or tire and rim assemblies or minor 
finishing operations, such as painting) to become a completed school bus for use 
in Illinois. (Based on 49 CFR 568.3)  
 
"Integral Type" bus means a completed vehicle either without separate body and 
chassis or with body and chassis joined into one unit.  
 
"m", following a numeral, means either "meter" or "meters".  
 
"mm", following a numeral, means either "millimeter" or "millimeters".  
 
"Manufacturer" (unless otherwise indicated at the point of use) means the person 
or organization whose name follows "MANUFACTURED BY" or "MFD BY" on 
the label required in Section 442.130(b).  
 
"Multiple Glazed Unit" means two or more sheets of safety glazing material 
separated by air spaces and assembled in a common mounting (ANSI Z26.1 -1996, 
no later amendments or editions included).  
 
"Passenger" means every bus occupant who is not the driver.   
 
"SAE" means the Society of Automotive Engineers (400 Commonwealth Drive, 
Warrendale PA 15096).       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10847  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
"School Bus" means:  
 
Every motor vehicle, except as provided in this definition, owned or 
operated by or for any of the following entities for the transpor tation of 
persons regularly enrolled as students in grade 12 or below in connection 
with any activity of such entity:   
 
Any public or private primary or secondary school;   
 
Any primary or secondary school operated by a religious 
institution; or   
 
Any publi c, private or religious nursery school.   
 
This definition shall not include the following:   
 
A bus operated by a public utility, municipal corporation or 
common carrier authorized to conduct local or interurban 
transportation of passengers when such bus is  not traveling a 
specific school bus route but is:   
 
On a regularly scheduled route for the transportation of 
other fare paying passengers;   
 
Furnishing charter service for the transportation of groups 
on field trips or other special trips or in connection  with 
other special events; or   
 
Being used for shuttle service between attendance centers 
or other educational facilities.   
 
A motor vehicle of the first division.   
 
A motor vehicle designed for the transportation of not less than 7 
nor more than 16 perso ns that is operated by or for a public or 
private primary or secondary school, including any primary or 
secondary school operated by a religious institution, for the 
purpose of transporting not more than 15 students to and from      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10848  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 interscholastic athletic or other interscholastic or school 
sponsored activities.  (Section 1 -182 of the Code)  
 
"SI" means Systeme International d'Unites (International System of Units); 
officially abbreviated SI in all languages; the modernized metric system defined 
in ANSI IEEE -AST M-SI-10-1997.  
 
The symbol " following a numeral means either "inch" or "inches".  
 
"Type I School Bus" means a school bus with a gross vehicle weight rating of 
more than 10,000 pounds.  (Section 1 -213.4 of the Code)  
 
"Type I -A School Bus" means a term commonly used by school bus 
manufacturers to classify a certain type of school bus that is a conversion or body 
constructed upon a van -type or cutaway front -section vehicle with a left side 
driver's door, designed for car rying more than 10 persons.  The Type I -A school 
bus has a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds.  
 
"Type II School Bus" means  a school bus with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.  
(Section 1 -213.5 of the Code)  
 
Section 442.130  Incorporation by Reference and Cert ification   
 
a) Each bus body and chassis must conform to the applicable provisions of the 
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) (49 CFR 571.1 through 
571.404).  Those applicable provisions of the FMVSS are incorporated by 
reference as that part of  the FMVSS was in effect on October 1, 2007 .  No later 
amendments to or editions of 49 CFR 571 are incorporated.  
 
b) Each bus body and chassis must conform to the applicable provisions of 49 CFR 
567, Certification, and 49 CFR 568, Vehicles Manufactured in Two or More 
Stages, that were in effect on the first day of the month in which the chassis 
manufacturer completed his  last manufacturing operation on the incomplete bus.  
Those applicable provisions are incorporated by reference as they were in effect 
on October 1, 2007 .  No later amendments to or editions of 49 CFR 567 and 49 
CFR 568 are incorporated.  
 
c) Each school bu s must conform to the applicable Standards and Recommended 
Practices of the Society of Automotive Engineers Handbook.  Those applicable      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10849  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 provisions of the SAE Standards and Recommended Practices are incorporated by 
reference as of the 2005 edition date.  No  later amendments to or editions of the 
SAE Standards and Recommended Practices are incorporated.  
 
d) Copies of the above materials incorporated by reference are available for 
inspection at the Division of Traffic Safety, 3215 Executive Park Drive, 3rd Floor, 
Springfield, Illinois 62703 or by calling (217)785 -1181.  The federal standards are 
available on the National Archives and Records Administration's website at 
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov.  The Division of Traffic Safety's rules are available on 
the Depar tment's website at http://www.dot.il.gov/safety.html . 
 
SUBPART B:  CONSTRUCTION OF BODY  
 
Section 442.205  Aisle   
 
a) Minimum clearance of all aisles, including the aisle (or passageway) leading to an 
emergency door in the rear, shall be 12 inches.  
 
b) A dedicated aisle which conforms to 49 CFR 571.217 may be adjacent to any side 
emergency door.  
 
Section 442.208  Barriers, Guard  
 
a) A restraining guard barrier shall be installed in front of the right and left front 
passenger seats.  Barriers shall be co nstructed to guard passengers from being 
thrown into the stairwell, dash, windshield, or driver 's compartment.  Barriers 
shall be padded to give knee and head impact protection.  Barriers shall conform 
to S5.2 through  S5.2.3 of FMVSS 222.  (See 92 Ill. Adm . Code 444 for 
exceptions for special education school buses.)  
 
b) The vertical distance from the floor covering to the top of a barrier positioned in 
front of a student 's seat shall measure not less than the vertical distance from the 
floor covering to th e top of the seat back on the seat back installed behind that 
barrier.  
 
Section 442.210  Body Structure  and Mounting   
 
a) See applicable provisions of the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.100 
through 571.304).       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10850  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
b) Insulating material shall be placed at all mounting points between the body and 
chassis frame.  This material shall be at least 5 mm (.2") thick, may have the 
quality of the sidewall of an automobile tire, and shall be so secured that it will 
not move, vib rate, or "crawl" out of place during normal operations.  
 
c) The body front shall be attached and sealed to the chassis cowl so as to prevent 
the entry of water, dust, or fumes through the joint between the chassis cowl and 
the body.  
 
Section 442.213  Bum per, Rear   
 
a) The entire rear bumper must be of metal construction unless an energy absorbing 
bumper is used.  
 
b) The rear bumper must meet chassis or body manufacturer's standards.  
 
c) The rear bumper shall be shielded between the body and the bumper t o prevent 
hitching or "riding on."  
 
 AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.420 for front bumper requirements.  
 
Section 442.214  Capacity, Passenger   
 
a) The vehicle maximum passenger capacity recommended by the manufacturer of 
the bus shall be based upon a provision for 13 inches of seating space for each 
passenger, exclusive of the driver.  (Section 12 -802 of the Code) Examples:  A 
seat 990 mm (39") in width provides 3 passenger spaces; a seat 985 mm (38.8") in 
width provides 2 passenger spaces; a device res embling a seat but less than 330 
mm (13") in width would not provide a passenger space.  
 
b) Neither a space not conforming to the FMVSS 222 nor the driver's space shall be 
counted as a passenger space.  However, any space used for transporting an 
orthoped ically challenged passenger shall be counted as a passenger space when 
computing passenger capacity to be displayed on the exterior of the bus as 
required in Section 442.250(g).  (See 92 Ill. Adm. Code 444, Minimum Safety 
Standards for Construction of Scho ol Buses used in Special Education 
Transportation.)  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10851  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 Section 442.215  Ceiling and  Side Walls   
 
a) The ceiling and side walls shall be thermally insulated with a fire -resistant 
material approved by the Underwriter's Laboratories, Inc., which shall also 
adequately reduce the noise level and vibrations.  
 
b) The interior of the bus shall be free of all unnecessary projections likely to cause 
injury.  Additional projections (e.g., external speakers, air conditioners) located 
within 59 inches from the floor sha ll be padded to prevent injury.  This includes 
inner lining of ceiling and walls.  Installation of book racks is not permissible.  
Interior paneling is required on the ceiling and walls. Paneling shall be of steel or 
other suitable material of equivalent s trength and durability, applied in such a 
manner as to present a clean, smooth and safe interior.  Exposed edges of lapped 
joints shall be beaded, flanged or otherwise treated and connected to reduce the 
likelihood of injury from exposed edges.  
 
c) Interi or height shall be a minimum of 60 inches, measured from the floor to 
ceiling at any point on the longitudinal center line from the front vertical bow to 
the rear vertical bow.  
 
Section 442.216  Child Check System (Optional)  
 
If a mechanical or electronic  child check system is installed, the system must illuminate the 
interior lights on the bus when the ignition is turned off. (See P.A. 95 -0260, effective August 17, 
2007.)  
 
Section 442.218  Crossing Control Arm   
 
a) Must meet or exceed the wiring requirem ents of SAE Recommended Practice 
J1133.  
 
b) Must be capable of full operation between, and including, the temperatures -40 
degrees F and 160 degrees F.  
 
c) The arm, when activated, must extend a minimum of five feet from the front face 
of the bumper.  
 
d) The arm must be mounted on the far right side (entry side) of the front bumper.  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10852  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 e) Appropriate brackets shall be used to attach the arm to the front bumper for 
proper operation and storage.  
 
f) All component parts must meet or exceed any applicable F MVSS in effect at the 
time of manufacture.  
 
g) The arm must extend at the same time the stop arm panel extends.  An 
independent "on/off" switch is prohibited.  
 
h) If the driver can stop the arm from extending with the use of an optional override 
switch, the arm sequence must automatically reset once the service door is closed.  
 
i) Red lights and/or red reflectors are prohibited.  
 
Section 442.220  Defrosters   
 
Defrosting equipment shall be installed so as to help keep the window to the left of the driver  and 
the glass in the service door clear of fog or frost. This defrosting equipment shall conform to 
those FMVSS 103 (49 CFR 571.103) performance requirements that are applicable to school bus 
windshields.  
 
Section 442.225  Doors  (Repealed)   
 
Section 442.230  Emergency Exits and Door Alarms   
 
a) Each emergency exit shall be equipped with an interior opening device which 
may be quickly released but which is designed to offer protection against 
accidental release. Each exterior release handle must be nonhitchable.  
 
AGENCY NOTE:   "Nonhitchable" is d efined as the rear of the bus being 
designed and maintained to prevent or discourage riding or grasping the rear of 
the bus so as to "hitch" rides.  
 
b) All emergency exits shall conform to the applicable requirements of the FMVSS 
217 (49 CFR 571.217).  
 
1) Each opening for a required emergency exit window or door must be 
outlined around its exterior perimeter with, at a minimum, 1 inch (2.54 
cm) wide yellow retroreflective tape.  All retroreflective tape must be on      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10853  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 the exterior surface of the bus and confo rm to all requirements of 49 CFR 
571.217. Emergency roof exits may be outlined in either yellow or white 
retroreflective tape.  Yellow retroreflective tape can be located on the rear 
bumper or rub rail provided the space under the emergency exit door or 
emergency exit window is not adequate to accommodate the tape or 
provided rivets are present that prohibit the tape from being applied 
properly.  
 
2) Both audible and visible alarms shall alert the driver when the engine is 
running and any emergency exit door  either:  
 
A) Is not fully latched, or  
 
B) Is locked and not readily operated manually.  
 
3) An audible alarm shall alert the driver when the engine is running and any 
emergency exit window either:  
 
A) Is not fully latched, or  
 
B) Is locked and not readily operated manually.  
 
4) The engine starting system shall not operate while any emergency exit 
door or window (optional or required) is locked from either inside or 
outside the bus. "Locked" means that the release mechanism cannot be 
activated and the exit cannot be opened by a person at the exit without a 
special device such as a key or special information such as a combination.  
 
5) An alarm cut -off or "squelch" control is prohibited.  
 
6) Exception:  No alarm is required for roof  hatches.  
 
Section 442.235  Floor Covering   
 
a) Plywood or equivalent material may be applied over the existing steel floor and 
securely fastened – shall be applied if specified by the purchaser. If applied, 
plywood shall be at least ½" exterior BB grade.   
 
b) All portions of the floor that come in contact with passengers' or driver's footwear      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10854  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 shall be covered with a waterproof material.  This floor covering shall not crack 
when subjected to sudden temperature change and shall be bonded securely to the 
floor with a waterproof substance.  All seams and openings shall be filled with a 
waterproof sealer.  
 
c) The floor covering in the aisles and entrance area shall be of non -skid, wear -
resistance type material commonly used in commercial passenger transportati on 
vehicles.  
 
Section 442.240  Glazing  Materials   
 
a) All glazing in the rear of a school bus, including the door, shall be the fixed type.  
 
b) Laminated safety glass is optional.  All applicable provisions of the FMVSS 205 
(49 CFR 205) apply to the optional laminated safety glass and also to any plastic 
materials used in multiple -glazed unit, including meeting the pertinent tests 
indicated below,  that are specified in ANSI Standard Z26.1 -1996 or Z26.1a -1996 
and are grouped in Table No. 1 of that Standard. Glazing shall be identified as 
shown below.  
 
Glazing installed 
in: Shall meet tests 
grouped in Z26.1 
Table No. 1 under:  Shall bear one of the 
following identification 
markings:  
 
Windshield  Item 1, either 
laminated glass or 
multiple glazed unit  AS 1 Glass  
 
Window or door 
forward of 
rearmost location 
of driver's seat 
back   AS 1 Glass or  
AS 2 Glass  
 
All Other  
locations   AS 1 Glass,  
AS 2 Glass or  
AS 3 Glass  
 
c) In addition, any exposed plastic layer of a multiple glazed unit shall be identified      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10855  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 in conformance with the FMVSS 205 (49 CFR 571.205).  
 
d) All glazing shall be installed so the identification markings are legible.  
 
 AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.310, Window Openings, for window operation 
requirements.  
 
Section 442.245  Heaters   
 
a) An inside temperature of not less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit at average minimum 
January temperature as established by the U.S. Department  of Commerce, 
National Weather Service Office, for the area in which the vehicle is to be 
operated shall be maintained throughout the bus.  
 
b) The primary heater shall be a high output, fresh air type.  
 
c) The secondary heater may be recirculating type, and located so as not to interfere 
with aisle space. Each secondary heater shall display a nameplate that identifies 
the manufacturer and the heater capacity rating.  
 
d) The heater hoses shall be adequately supported to guard against excessive wear 
due to  vibration and shall not interfere with or restrict the operation of any engine 
function.  Any hose in the passenger compartment shall be adequately protected 
to prevent injury from burns in the event of rupture.  
 
e) Auxiliary fuel -fired heating systems a re permitted provided they comply with the 
following:  
 
1) The auxiliary heating system fuel shall utilize the same type of fuel as 
specified for the vehicle engine;  
 
2) The heater or heaters may be direct hot air or connected to the engine's 
coolant system;  
 
3) An auxiliary heating system, when connected to the engine's coolant 
system, may be used to preheat the engine coolant or preheat and add 
supplementary heat to the bus' heating system;  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10856  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 4) Auxiliary heating systems must be installed pursuant to the manufacturer's 
recommendations and shall not direct exhaust in a manner that will 
endanger bus passengers (e.g., under windows);  
 
5) Auxiliary heating systems that operate on diesel fuel shall be capable of 
operating on:  
 
A) a hot water and/or combusti on type heater; or  
 
B) if only one heater is used, a fresh -air or combination fresh -air and 
recirculation type heater; or  
 
C) blended diesel fuel without the need for system adjustment.  
 
6) The auxiliary heating system shall be low voltage.  
 
Section 442.25 0  Identification/Lettering   
 
a) Except where otherwise required or allowed, lettering on the exterior of the body 
shall be black against a national school bus glossy yellow background. All 
required letters and numerals shall conform to Series "B", or heav ier series, of the 
Standard Alphabets for Highway Signs issued by the Federal Highway 
Administration, Washington, D.C. 20591.  Decals may be used instead of paint.  
Signs, numbers, or lettering, other than those either required by Section 12 -802 of 
the Cod e or this Part shall not be affixed permanently on either the exterior or 
interior of the bus.  Interior lettering shall contrast with its background.  
 
b) The words "SCHOOL BUS" shall be displayed against a national school bus 
glossy yellow background as high as practical and approximately centered on the 
front and rear of the bus body, in letters at least 200 mm (8") high (see Section 
12-802 of the Code).  These words may be painted on or applied to the bus body 
or displayed on a sign firmly attached to or built into the body.  The background 
of an illuminated sign shall approximate the national school bus glossy yellow 
color as closely as feasible.  
 
c) A school bus identification number, supplied by the purchaser, shall be displayed 
as high as practical on the front and rear of the bus in numerals not less than 100 
mm (4") high.  Such number may be displayed on the sides of the bus as specified 
by the purch aser.  As an option, identification numbers may be located on the      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10857  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 rooftop.  
 
d) Either the owner's name or the school district number or both must be displayed 
on both sides of the bus at least four inches high, approximately centered and as 
high as practic able below the window line . (See Section 12 -802 of the Code.) The 
lettering must be located on one line.  
 
e) The body and/or chassis manufacturer's name, emblem, or other identification 
may be displayed, colorless or in any color, on any unglazed surface of the bus so 
as not to be mistaken for the name required in subsection (d) of this Section, and 
so as not to interfere with any required letters or numerals.  
 
f) The words "EMPTY WEIGHT", or the abbreviation "EMPTY WT.", or the letters 
"E.W.", followed b y the empty weight of the bus (see Section 442.120), stated in 
pounds, shall be displayed on the exterior of the body near the rear edge of the 
service entrance in numerals and letters at least 50 mm (2") high (see Section 12 -
802 of the Code).  
 
Examples:  EMPTY WEIGHT  16,800 lb  E.W. 16,800 lb  
 
g) The word "CAPACITY", or the abbreviation "CAP.", and the rated passenger 
capacity, as described in Section 442.214, followed by the word 
"PASSENGERS", or the abbreviation "PASS.", shall be displayed on the exterior 
of the body near the rear edge of the ser vice entranceway, and on the interior 
above the right portion of the windshield, in numerals and letters at least 50 mm 
(2") high (see Section 12 -802 of the Code).  
 
h) The words "NO STANDEES" shall be displayed only on the interior above the 
windshield, a pproximately opposite the aisle but to the right of the mirror and sun 
visor, in letters at least 50 mm (2") high.  
 
i) The words "EMERGENCY DOOR" or "EMERGENCY EXIT" in letters at least 
5 cm (2") high must be displayed on the interior and exterior of the bus. 
"EMERGENCY DOOR" must be displayed at the top of, or directly above, any 
emergency exit door.  "EMERGENCY EXIT" must be displayed at the top of, or 
directly above, or at the bottom of, any emergency exit window.  They may be 
displayed on a separate co lorless background (such as white, aluminum, or silver) 
that extends no more than 15 mm (.6") above or below the words and no more 
than 25 mm (1") to the right or left of the words.       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10858  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
j) A black arrow, curved or straight, at least 150 mm (5.9") in length a nd 15 mm 
(.6") in width, showing the direction each exterior emergency exit release 
mechanism is to be moved to open the emergency exit, shall be painted or 
permanently affixed on the exterior yellow portion of the bus within 150 mm 
(5.9") of each release mechanism.  
 
k) An arrow showing the direction each interior emergency exit release mechanism 
is to be moved to open the emergency exit shall be painted or permanently affixed 
on the interior of the bus within 150 mm (5.9") of each emergency exit release 
mechanism.  Each interior arrow shall contrast with its background and, where 
suitable space is limited, may be smaller than the exterior arrow(s) but must be 
conspicuous.  
 
l) Alternate Fuel  
 
1) If the bus uses alternate fuel (e.g., propane, CNG), the veh icle must be 
marked with an identifying decal.  Such decal shall be diamond shaped 
with white or silver scotchlite letters one inch in height and a stroke of the 
brush at least ¼ inch wide on a black background with a white or silver 
scotchlite border bear ing either the words or letters:   
 
 "PROPANE" = If propelled by liquefied petroleum gas other than 
liquefied natural gas; or   
 
 "CNG" = If propelled by compressed natural gas.  The sign or 
decal shall be maintained in good legible condition.   
 
2) The alternate fuel decal shall be displayed near the rear bumper and 
visible from the rear of the vehicle.  (Section 12 -704.3 of the Code)  
 
m) The vehicle's length (rounded up to nearest whole foot) must be displayed on or 
adjacent to the interior bulkhead cle arly within the driver's view. (For example:  
vehicle length of 39.1 feet will be displayed as 40 feet.) Each letter or numeral 
must be at least two inches high and black in color. The measurement must be 
taken from the front bumper to the rear bumper.  
 
n) A "Stop Line" in contrasting color is required between 5.9 and 6.1 inches below 
the top of each side window opening.  The line shall be located between each      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10859  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 window that slides downward.  
 
o) The decal described in this subsection (o) is required to be di splayed on every 
school bus registered in Illinois.  The school bus manufacturer may elect to apply 
the decal at the time the school bus is manufactured or the decal may be applied 
by the school bus owner after the school bus is purchased.   A white decal w ith 
black lettering and numerals that measure one inch high must be displayed on the 
rear of the bus.  The decal must display the words TO REPORT ERRATIC 
DRIVING followed by the area code and phone number of the bus owner.  The 
decal shall be located on th e rear window glazing below the rear seat back, on the 
bus body below the window line, or on the rear bumper.  The decal must be 
visible to the motoring public from the rear of the bus and cannot obstruct any 
required lettering or numerals.  The decal cann ot be located on any emergency 
door glazing or any emergency window glazing.  Magnetic  signs are not allowed.  
(See P.A. 95 -0176, effective January 1, 2008.)  
 
p) The decals described in this subsection (p) are required to be displayed on every 
school bus registered in Illinois if an audio and/or visual recording will be made 
of the interior of the school bus.  The school bus manufacturer may elect to apply 
the decals at the time the school bus is manufactured or the decals may be applied 
by the school bus owner after the school bus is purchased.   Two white decals with 
black lettering measuring one inch high shall be displayed, one on the exterior of 
the service (e.g., entrance) door or on the bus body adjacent to the service door if 
the door is not adequate  to accommodate the decal and a second on the front 
interior bulkhead.  The decals shall serve as a notice of audio and/or visual 
recordings.  The exterior decal must not be located on any service door glazing 
and the interior decal must not obstruct any o ther required lettering on the 
bulkhead.  Magnetic signs are not allowed.  (See P.A.  95-0352, effective August 
23, 2007.)  
 
Section 442.253  Metal Treatment   
 
a) Unless excluded by this subsection, all steel or iron used in construction of the 
bus body and attached equipment shall be either resistant to atmospheric 
corrosion, or zinc coated, or treated by equivalent process.  Particular attention 
shall be given to each fastener or attaching device, lapped surface, welded 
connection or fastening, cut edge, punched or drilled hole, surface subjected to 
abrasion, closed or box section, and any unvented or undrained area or space.  
The number of unvented or undrained ar eas or spaces is to be minimized.      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10860  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 Excluded are door handles, grab handles, and interior decorative parts.  
 
b) As evidence that above requirements have been met, a sample of fastener, 
material, or section of body, coated or finished as installed in the bus , when 
subjected to a 1,000 -hour salt spray test in accordance with American Society for 
Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard B -117-1997 "Method of Salt Spray 
(Fog) Testing" shall not exhibit more than 10 percent reduction in weight after all 
adherent cor rosion products are removed.  
 
Section 442.255  Mirrors   
 
a) Interior Mirror – A mirror shall be located inside the bus.  It shall be firmly 
supported, constructed of clear view safety glass and securely backed and framed.  
It shall have rounded corners.  Edges shall be padded to reduce danger of injury 
upon impact.  The mirror shall afford the operator a good view of the bus interior 
and portions of the roadway to the rear.  
 
b) All exterior mirror systems shall conform to the applicable requirements of th e 
FMVSS 111 (49 CFR 571.111).  
 
c) More convex mirrors than required above may be installed, if specified by the 
purchaser.  
 
d) The reflecting surface on the backside of each mirror glass shall be protected from 
abrasion, scratching, and atmospheric corro sion.  
 
Section 442.258  Paint/Color Requirements   
 
a) The exterior of each school bus shall be national school bus glossy yellow except 
as indicated in subsections (b) through (i) of this Section .  
 
b) The rooftop may be white.   Optional white roof shall terminate at any point from 
top of drip rail to 6" above drip rail.  The front and rear roof caps shall remain 
national school bus glossy yellow.  
 
c) Body trim, rub rails, and lettering other than on a stop signal arm shall be glossy 
black. Bumpers may be  glossy black or a bright, light or colorless finish.   
 
d) Lettering on a stop signal arm shall be white on a red background.        ILLINOIS REGISTER             10861  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
e) The hood and upper cowl may be lusterless black or lusterless school bus yellow.   
 
f) Grilles on the front, lamp trim and hub caps may be a bright finish.  Wheels and 
rims may be black, gray, or manufacturer's colors.  
 
g) The name or emblem of a manufacturer may be colorless or any color.   
 
h) The exterior paint of any school bus shall match the central value, hue and 
chroma set forth  in this Part. (Section 12 -801 of the Code)  
 
i) Each opening for a required emergency exit window or door must be outlined 
around its outside perimeter with a minimum 1 inch (2.54 cm) wide yellow 
retroreflective tape.  All retroreflective tape must be on the exterior surface of the 
bus and conform to al l requirements of 49 CFR 571.217.  Yellow retroreflective 
tape can be located on the rear bumper or rub rail provided the space under the 
emergency exit door or emergency exit window is not adequate to accommodate 
the tape or provided rivets are present th at prohibit the tape from being applied 
properly.  Emergency roof exits may be outlined in either yellow or white 
retroreflective tape.  
 
Section 442.259  Rack, Book/Luggage   
 
Book/luggage racks are not allowed.  
 
Section 442.260  Rub Rails   
 
a) There shal l be one rub rail located approximately at seat level which shall extend 
from the rear of the entrance door on both sides to a point of curvature at the rear 
of the body.  
 
b) Rub rails shall be constructed of 16 -gauge longitudinally corrugated or ribbed 
steel, ventilated, four inches minimum width, and securely fastened to the body 
by bolts, rivets, or welding.  
 
Section 442.265  Seat Belts, Driver's and Passengers'   
 
a) See th e FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.209 and 210).  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10862  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 b) The driver's seat belt assembly shall be arranged so that all portions of the 
assembly remain above the floor when not in use.  
 
c) If a retractor or retractors are installed, they shall be the emerge ncy locking type.  
 
d) The driver's seat must be equipped with a lap belt/shoulder harness design.  
 
Section 442.270  Seating  
  
a) No bus shall be equipped with "jump" or portable seats (this does not include 
child restraint systems).  
 
b) The driver's sea t shall be rigidly positioned and have a fore -and-aft adjustment 
without the use of tools or other nonattached devices.  
 
c) A flip -up seat for passengers may be located only immediately adjacent to any 
side emergency door.  The flip -up seat must conform t o the following:  
 
1) The seat must be designed so that, when in the folded position, the seat 
cushion is flat against the seat back to prevent a child's limb from 
becoming lodged between the seat cushion and seat back.  
 
2) The seat must be designed to discourage a child from standing on the seat 
cushion when in the folded position.  
 
3) The working mechanism under the seat must be covered to eliminate any 
tripping hazard.  
 
4) All sharp metal edges on the seat must be padded  to prevent any snagging 
hazard.  
 
5) No portion of the door latch mechanism can be obstructed by a seat.  
 
6) There must be at least 11.7 inches (30 cm) measured from the door 
opening to the seat back in front.  
 
Section 442.275  Service Entrance  and Door   
 
a) The service entrance shall be located on the right side near the front, in      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10863  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 unobstructed and convenient view of the driver.  The service entrance shall have a 
minimum vertical opening of 1.7 m (67") and a minimum horizontal opening of 
610 mm (24").  
 
b) The service entrance steps shall be designed so that the first step shall not be more 
than 13½" off the ground.  If necessary, a step of adequate width and length shall 
be installed to meet this requirement. Provision shall be made to prevent road 
splas h from the wheel from accumulating on the step if installed outside the body.  
 
c) The service door shall be either manually or power operated by the seated driver.  
When in the closed and secured position, the door operating mechanism shall 
prevent accide ntal opening but shall afford prompt release and opening by the 
driver.  No exposed parts of a door operating mechanism shall come together so 
as to shear or crush finger(s).  The vertical closing edge(s) of a service door shall 
be padded to lessen chance of injury.  
 
d) A power operated door shall be equipped for emergency manual operation in case 
of power failure.  Instructions for emergency operation of a power operated door 
shall be affixed permanently on the interior of the door in letters at least 12 mm 
(.5") high.  
 
e) A single -section service door shall be hinged at the front of the service entrance.  
 
f) Glazed panels shall be installed in the service door to afford the driver a view of 
small children outside the door, traffic signs, and intersecting roadways.  The 
bottom of each lower glass panel shall not be more than 10 inches from the top 
surface of th e bottom step.  The top of each upper glass panel shall not be more 
than 3 inches from the top of the door.  
 
g) Service Door Lock (Optional).  If ordered by the purchaser, a lock may be 
installed on or at the service door.  Any type service door locking s ystem installed 
in the bus shall conform to at least one of the following requirements.  
 
1) Requirement 1:  A locking system shall not be capable of preventing the 
driver from easily and quickly opening the service door; or  
 
2) Requirement 2:  A locking system that is capable of preventing the driver 
from easily and quickly opening the service door shall include an audible 
and visible alarm to alert the driver when the engine is running and the      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10864  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 service door is locked.  No alarm disconnect, "squelch contro l", or other 
alarm defeating or attenuating device shall be installed; or  
 
3) Requirement 3:  A locking system shall not be capable of preventing the 
driver from easily and quickly opening the service door except when, and 
only when, a person outside the bus uses a key that is not capable of 
locking more than one of at least 1000 of the door manufacturer's key 
locking systems.  
 
h) A grab handle of steel, as long as practicable, shall be solidly attached to the left 
of any person entering the school bus.  Forward handrails are prohibited, except 
when required by 92 Ill. Adm. Code 444 (Minimum Safety Standards for 
Construction of School Buses used in Special Education Transportation).  An 
optional grab handle can also be located on the right side of the entr anceway.  
 
Section 442.280  Stanchion Guard Panel or Barrier Guard  (Repealed)  
 
Section 442.285  Stop Signal Arm  Panel  
 
a) A stop signal arm panel must be installed on the left side of the bus that conforms 
to 49 CFR 571.131.    Decals may be used in lieu of  painting.  Strobe lamps are 
acceptable on stop signal arm panels.  See Appendix E for example.  
 
b) Additional stop signal arm panels may be added at the purchaser's request.  
Additional panels must be located on the left side of the bus. Additional panel s 
must operate in conjunction with the required panel and meet all stop arm panel 
requirements except as follows.  The additional panel must not contain any 
marking or reflective material on the front side of the panel.  The additional panel 
must be locate d in the rear half of the bus adjacent to the rearmost window.  
 
Section 442.290  Tool Compartment (Purchaser's Option)   
 
a) A fire -resistant container of adequate strength and capacity for storage of tools, 
chains, curriculum equipment, activity equipment, etc., may be installed.  If 
installed, the container shall provide reasonable security for its contents and shall 
be secure ly fastened to prevent the container or its contents from becoming 
accidentally dislodged.  
 
b) If the storage container is not installed and tools, equipment, etc., are carried, each      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10865  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 such item must be secured to prevent its becoming dislodged and causing injury 
to passengers.  
 
Section 442.295  Sun Visor   
 
a) The driver's side shall be equipped with an interior adjustable sun visor with a 
minimum size of 5" X 16".  
 
b) No sun visor shall interfere with the operator's full view of the rearview mirror(s).  
 
c) A sun visor on the right passenger side is optional.  
 
Section 442.300  Undercoating   
 
The underside of the body, including floor members and the side panels below the floor, shall be 
coated with a fire -resistant undercoating material applied by the spr ay method so as to seal, 
insulate, reduce corrosion, and reduce interior noise.  Non -metallic components need not be 
coated.  
 
Section 442.305  Ventilation   
 
The body shall be equipped with a suitable controlled ventilation system of sufficient capacity to 
maintain a satisfactory ratio of outside to inside air under operating conditions without opening 
of windows except in warm weather.  
 
Section 442.310  Windo w Openings   
 
This Section does not apply to a window or glazed panel installed forward of a front passenger 
seat, and is optional for a window installed either beside a rear passenger seat or a special service 
door or in a side emergency exit.  
 
a) All sid e windows shall open from the top only and shall operate freely.  
 
b) There shall be one vertical opening side window for each seat.  
 
c) Each side window shall provide an unobstructed emergency egress opening at 
least 9 inches high and 22 inches wide. The  opening may extend to 18 inches 
above the unoccupied passenger seat cushion but no closer (to the seat cushion).  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10866  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 d) A stop line for the window opening shall be applied six inches from the top of the 
window opening.  
 
e) The side windows may be split sas h.  
 
f) The window latches shall be recessed.  
 
AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.240 for glazing material requirements.  
 
Section 442.315  Windshield   
 
See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.104).  
The windshield may be tinted and may have a "shade band".  
 
Section 442.320  Windshield Wipers   
 
See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.104).  
 
Section 442.325  Windshield Washer   
 
See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.104).  
 
SUBPART C:  CHASSIS REQUIREMENTS  
 
Section 442.405  Air Cleaner   
 
The bus shall be equipped with an adequate oil bath, dry element, or equivalent type air cleaner.  
 
Section 442.410  Axles   
 
a) Must meet federal chassis requirements as indicated on the federal certification 
label as required by 49 CFR 567 (Certification) and 49 CFR 568 (Vehicles 
Manufactured in Two or More Stages).  
 
b) Wheel base shall not be less than 123 inches.  
 
Section 442. 415  Brakes   
 
See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.105).       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10867  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 Power brakes are required.  
 
Section 442.420  Bumper, Front   
 
a) The front bumper shall meet the chassis manufacturer's standards.  
b) The entire front bumper must be of metal construction unl ess an energy absorbing 
bumper is used.  
 
 AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.213 for rear bumper requirements.  
 
Section 442.425  Drive Shaft  Guard   
 
Each segment of the drive shaft shall be equipped with a suitable guard to prevent accident or 
injury in the e vent of its fracture or disconnection.  
 
Section 442.430  Engine   
 
Type and displacement may be specified by the purchaser.  
 
Section 442.435  Exhaust System and Muffler   
 
a) The exhaust pipe, muffler and tail pipe shall be outside the bus body and attached 
to the chassis.  
 
AGENCY NOTE:  As mandated by the United States Environmental Protection 
Agency (USEPA), diesel -powered engines manufactured after December 31, 
2006 are req uired to meet stricter standards that will reduce emissions of 
particulate matter and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere.  School bus 
manufacturers may be required to modify exhaust systems to meet the USEPA 
requirements, e.g., mufflers may be replaced wi th after -treatment devices that 
significantly reduce toxins released into the atmosphere.  Modifications to exhaust 
systems made in compliance with the USEPA requirements are acceptable 
provided they do not impact the safe operation of the school bus.  
 
b) The exhaust system shall be insulated from any insulated wire, flammable 
material, brake hose or line, or fuel system component by a securely attached 
metal shield at any point where the exhaust system is 11.8 inches (300 mm) or 
less (four inches (101.6 mm ) or less if diesel powered engine) from the 
components listed in this subsection.       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10868  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
c) The tail pipe may meet the chassis manufacturer's standard configuration.  
However, the tail pipe shall not exit beneath any fuel filler location or beneath any 
emergen cy exit door.  
 
d) The tail pipe shall extend out to, but not more than, 1 inch (25.4 mm) beyond the 
perimeter of the body or the bumper.  
 
e) The shielding of engine compartment components shall be governed by the 
chassis manufacturer's standards.  
 
f) Each gas conducting component that is not of stainless steel shall be of 
commercial heat and corrosion resistant exhaust system material and shall be 
nonflexible.  
 
Section 442.440  Frame   
 
After the date of manufacture of the incomplete vehicle, the chassis frame shall not be altered so 
as to extend the wheelbase.  Other extension(s) of the chassis frame may be accomplished only 
by the incomplete vehicle, intermediate, or final -stage manufac turer or by an agent of the 
manufacturer properly instructed and authorized by the manufacturer to make the extension(s).  
 
Section 442.445  Fuel Tank   
 
a) See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.301).  
 
b) The fuel tank shall have a minimum capacity of  24 gallons.  
 
Section 442.450  Heater Connections   
 
Each heater installation shall include two shut off valves as close to the engine inlet and outlet 
connections as practicable.  
 
Section 442.455  Horn  
 
The bus shall be equipped with at least one horn capable of emitting sound audible under normal 
conditions from a distance of not less than 200 feet.  (Section 12 -601 of the Code)  The horn 
shall be conveniently controlled from the operator’s position and tested in accordance with SAE 
Standard  J377.       ILLINOIS REGISTER             10869  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
Section 442.460  Ignition Lock   
 
A key type lock or other device shall be provided to prevent the vehicle from being set in motion 
or its engine started by unauthorized persons.  
 
Section 442.465  Instruments   
 
The bus shall be equipped with the following nonglare illuminated instruments and gauges 
mounted for easy maintenance and repair and in such a manner that each is clearly visible to the 
seated operator.  An indicator light in lieu of a pressure or temperat ure gauge is permissible.  
 
a) Speedometer  
 
b) Odometer  
 
c) Fuel Gauge  
 
d) Oil Pressure Gauge  
 
e) Water Temperature Gauge  
 
f) Ampere Meter or Volt Meter with graduated charge and discharge indications  
 
Section 442.470  Oil Filter   
 
An oil filter of r eplaceable element type or cartridge type or disposable type shall be provided.  
The oil filter shall have an oil capacity of at least one quart.  
 
Section 442.475  Shock Absorbers   
 
Two front and two rear heavy -duty double -acting shock absorbers or equivalent damping devices 
shall be provided.  
 
Section 442.480  Springs  and Suspension   
 
Each spring and other component in any of the suspension systems shall be capable of 
supporting its  share of the rated gross axle weight during normal operations.  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10870  
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 Section 442.485  Steering  Mechanism   
 
a) The steering gear shall provide safe and accurate performance at maximum load 
and speed and shall be easily adjusted.  Only changes approved by the c hassis 
manufacturer shall be permitted.  
 
b) Power steering is the purchaser's option.  
 
Section 442.490  Tires and Wheels   
 
a) See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.120).  
 
b) Wheels and rims may be black, gray or manufacturer's colors.  
 
c) A spare tire is the purchaser's option.  If the spare tire is carried inside it shall be 
securely mounted so that it in no way interferes with the passenger seating 
accommodations, the emergency door operations or aisle space.  
 
Section 442.495  Transmissions   
 
a) A manual shift transmission shall be fully synchronized in all forward gears.  It 
shall provide for at least three forward and one reverse speeds.  
 
b) An automatic transmission is the purchaser's option.  
 
SUBPART D:  ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS REQUIREMENTS  
 
Section 442.605  Battery  and Battery Compartment  
 
a) The storage battery shall be a nominal 12 -volt type.  It shall be of sufficient 
capacity to supply all electrical requirements but shall be rated, as specified in 
SAE Standard J537, not less than either 70 -ampere hours at the 20 -hour discharge 
rate or 105 -minutes at the 25 -ampere discharge rate.  
 
b) When the battery is mounted outside the engine compartment, it shall be attached 
securely in a closed, weather -tight, and vented compartment that is located and  
arranged so as to provide for convenient routine servicing.  The battery 
compartment door, or cover, shall be secured by an adequate manually -operated 
latch or fastener.  Each electrical cable connecting the battery in this compartment      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10871 
 17 
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 to the body or chas sis shall be one piece between the battery terminal connector 
and the first body or chassis terminal connector.  
 
Section 442.610  Generator or Alternator   
 
The generator or alternator with rectifier shall have a maximum output of at least 55 -amperes (in 
accordance with SAE rating) and shall be ventilated and voltage controlled and, if necessary, 
current controlled and shall be capable of supplying all electri cal requirements.  The purchaser 
should specify a larger generator or alternator if needed under his/her operating conditions.  
 
Section 442.615  Lamps, Reflectors, and Signals   
 
a) See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571.108).  Light Emitting Diode 
(LED) lamps that meet applicable FMVSS or SAE Standards or SAE 
Recommended Practices are acceptable.  
 
b) Alternately Flashing Signal Lamps.  Each bus shall be equipped with an eight 
lamp alternately flashing signal system that conforms to S5.1.4(b) of the FMV SS 
108 (49 CFR 571.108) and Section 12 -805 of the Code.  A separate circuit 
breaker and a master switch shall be provided for this signal system.  When in its 
"off" position, this master switch shall prevent operation of the eight lamp system; 
shall preven t operation of any lamps mounted on the stop signal arm panel 
required under subsection (hh); and shall prevent operation of any electrically 
controlled mechanism that would cause the stop signal arm panel to extend.  The 
controls for the eight lamp flashi ng signals, the stop signal arm panel, and the 
service entrance door shall be arranged so as to provide for the following 
sequence of operations while the engine is running:  
 
1) Place the alternately flashing signal system master switch in its "off" 
posit ion.  Close and secure the service entrance door.  Actuate the 
alternately flashing signal system hand or foot control. The alternately 
flashing signal lamps of either yellow (amber) or red color shall not go on.  
 
2) With the master switch "off" and the h and or foot control actuated, open 
the service door.  The alternately flashing signals of either color shall not 
go on and the stop signal arm panel shall not extend.  
 
3) Deactivate the hand or foot control.  Place the alternately flashing signal 
system m aster switch in its "on" position.  Close and secure the service      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10872  
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 door.  Then open the service door.  The alternately flashing signal lamps 
of either color shall not go on and the stop signal arm panel shall not 
extend.  
 
4) Close and secure the service doo r.  Actuate the alternately flashing signal 
system by hand or foot control.  A yellow pilot lamp in the view of the 
driver and the yellow alternately flashing signals shall go on.  
 
5) Desecure but do not open the service door.  The yellow pilot and the 
yellow alternately flashing signals shall go off.  A red pilot lamp in the 
view of the driver and the red alternately flashing signals shall go on.  The 
stop signal arm panel shall extend.  
 
6) Fully open the service door.  The red pilot and red signals shal l remain on 
and the stop arm shall remain extended.  
 
7) Close but do not secure the service door.  The red pilot and red signals 
shall remain on and the stop arm shall remain extended.  
 
8) Open the service door.  The red pilot and red signals shall remain on and 
the stop arm shall remain extended.  
 
9) Close and secure the service door.  The red pilot and red signals shall go 
off and the stop arm shall retract.  
 
10) Open the service door.  Alternately flashing signals of either color shall 
not go on and the stop arm shall not extend.  
 
c) Interior Lighting.  A minimum of two interior dome lamps shall be installed to 
adequately illuminate the entire aisle, the emergency passageway, and the 
stepwell.  At least the nosings of the service entrance steps and the floor around 
the stepwell shall be illuminated automatically by opening of the service door.  
No lamp shall be installed at or near the eye level of a pupil moving through the 
service entr anceway to the aisle unless such lamp does not shine directly into the 
eyes of any such pupil.  For buses designed to transport 33 or more passengers, at 
least two interior illumination lamps shall be installed.  
 
d) Rear Turn Signals.  Yellow turn signal l amps shall be mounted on the rear as far 
apart as practical and as high as practical but below the rear window.  The      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10873  
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 effective projected illuminated area of these turn signal lamps shall be no less 
than required for the yellow alternately flashing signal l amps required under 
subsection (b) of this Section; i.e., .0122 m2 (19 in2).  
 
e) Side Turn Signals.  Two yellow side turn signal lamps conforming to SAE J914 
shall be installed on each bus designed to transport 33 or more passengers.  The 
lamps shall be " armored" and mounted on the body between the rub rails required 
in Section 442.260.  The right lamp shall be within 1 m (39.4") of the rear of the 
service entrance. The left lamp shall be approximately the same distance from the 
front bumper as the right l amp.  
 
f) Stop Signals.  Red stop lamps shall be mounted on the rear as far apart as 
practical but closer to the vertical centerline of the bus than the rear turn signal 
lamps required in subsection (d) of this Section, and at the same height as those 
turn signal lamps.  The effective projected illuminated area of these stop lamps 
shall be no less than required for the red alternately flashing signal lamps required 
under subsection (b) of this Section, i.e., .0122 m2 (19 in2).  
 
g) Strobe:  
 
1) One per bus;   
 
2) Shall emit white or bluish -white light;   
 
3) Shall be visible from any direction;   
 
4) Shall flash 60 to 120 times per minute;   
 
5) Shall be visible in normal sunlight;   
 
6) Mounted at or behind center of rooftop and equal distance from each side.  
Distance from rear will be calculated by measuring height of filament and 
multiplying same by 30 inches  (i.e., filament height measured from the 
base of the strobe x 30 = distance from rear of bus where lamp is to be 
located). (Section 12 -815 of the Code)  
 
7) If a roof exit, air conditioner, or the size of the bus interferes with the 
placement of a strobe as required by subsection (g)(6), the strobe can be 
placed to the rear of the roof exit or air conditioner as near as practicable      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10874  
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 above the rear axle and  horizontally centered between the rear tires.  
 
h) Reflectors.  
 
1) Front:  
 
A) Two yellow rigid or sheet type (tape) front reflex reflectors shall be 
attached securely and as far forward as practicable.  (Section 12 -
202 of the Code)  
 
B) The front reflect ors shall be located between 15 and 60 inches 
above the roadway at either fender, cowl, or body and installed so 
as to mark the outer edge of the maximum width of the bus.  
 
C) No part of the required reflecting material may be obscured by a 
lamp, mirror, bracket, or any other portion of the bus.  No part of 
the required reflecting material may be more than 11.8 inches (300 
mm) inboard of the outer edge of the nearest rub rail (12 inches on 
a bus with chassis manufactured in March 1977 or earlier).  
 
D) The reflector may be any shape (e.g., square, rectangle, circle, 
oval, etc.).  A rigid type reflex reflector may be any size if 
permanently marked either DOT, SAE A, or SAE J 594; otherwise, 
it shall display at least seven square inches of reflecting material  
(about 3 inch diameter if a solid circle).  
 
E) A sheet type (tape) reflex reflector may conform to the surface on 
which it is installed but its forward projected reflecting area shall 
be at least eight square inches.  
 
F) Exception:  Buses that measure l ess than 80 inches wide are 
exempt. (49 CFR 571.108)  
 
2) Left Side:  
 One amber no more than 12 inches from the front and one red no more 
than 12 inches from the rear.  Mounted at a height not less than 15 inches 
and not more than 60 inches above the surface of the road.   (Section 12 -
202 of the Code)  On buses 20 feet or more in length, one amber as near 
center as practicable must also be provided.  Reflectors must measure a      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10875  
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 minimum three inches in diameter.  
 
3) Right Side:  
 One amber no more than 12  inches from the front and one red no more 
than 12 inches from the rear.  Mounted at a height not less than 15 inches 
and not more than 60 inches above the surface of the road.   (Section 12 -
202 of the Code)  On buses 20 feet or more in length, one amber as  near 
center as practicable must also be provided.  Reflectors must measure a 
minimum three inches in diameter.  
 
4) Rear:  
 
A) Two red reflectors on rear body within 12 inches of lower right 
and lower left corners.   (Section 12 -202 of the Code)  Minimum 
three inches in diameter.  
 
B) Exception: Buses that measure less than 80 inches wide are 
exempt.  (49 CFR 571.108)  
 
AGENCY NOTE:  See Section 442.258 for retroreflective tape requirements.  
 
Section 442.620  Wiring   
 
a) See the FMVSS for requirements (49 CFR 571).  
 
b) All wiring for lamps and other electrical devices shall be as recommended for 
automobiles, motor coaches, and heavy duty starting motor circuits in SAE 
Recommended Practices J1292 and J541a and in other pra ctices or standards 
referenced in the SAE Recommended Practices, unless specifically preempted by 
the FMVSS or this Part.  
 
c) Manufacturer's circuit arrangements are acceptable; however, a separate circuit 
for the alternately flashing signal lamps and sto p signal arm lamps shall be 
installed.  
 
d) Extra fuses for each size of fuse used on the bus may be conveniently mounted on 
the bus body if specified by the purchaser.  
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10876  
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 e) A noise suppression switch that is capable of turning off noise producing 
accessor ies, including, but not limited to, heater blowers, defroster fans, auxiliary 
fans and radios, must be present.  (See Section 12 -815.2 of the Code.)  
 
SUBPART E:  EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS  
 
Section 442.705  Fire Extinguisher (Purchaser's Option)   
 
a) The bus s hall be equipped with a dry -chemical gauge -type fire extinguisher, 
mounted in a bracket of automotive type and located in the driver's compartment 
in full view of and readily accessible to the driver.  
 
b) The fire extinguisher shall be of a type approved by the Underwriter's 
Laboratories, Inc., with a rating of not less than 10 -BC.  The operating 
mechanism shall be sealed with a type of seal that will not interfere with the use 
of the fire extinguisher.  Halon fire extinguishers rated at 10 -BC are approved .  
 
 Agency Note:  At least one fire extinguisher MUST be carried in each school bus 
transporting pupils but the purchaser may elect to install his own extinguisher which 
conforms to this Section after the bus is purchased.  
 
Section 442.710  First -Aid Kit   (Purchaser's Option)   
 
a) The bus shall either carry or provide for a first -aid kit, removable and readily 
identifiable and mounted in full view in an accessible place in the driver's 
compartment.  
 
b) Contents of Kit:  The kit shall not contain a tourni quet or any type of medicine.  
The kit shall contain at least the items specified below, in at least the specified 
quantities:  
 
1) Unit Type – Minimum Contents  
 
A) 4" bandage compress  ................................ ............   * 2 packages  
B) 2" bandage compress  ................................ ............   * 2 packages  
C) 1" adhesive compress  ................................ ...........   1 package  
D) 40" triangular bandage with two safety pins  ........   1 package  
 Wire or wood splint  ................................ ..............   1 package  
 * May be longer or wider        ILLINOIS REGISTER             10877  
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
  
AGENCY NOTE:  A first -aid kit must be carried in each school bus transporting pupils 
but the purchaser may elect to install his own first -aid kit which conforms to this Section.  
 
Section 442.715  Warning Devices (Optional)  
 
AGENCY NOTE:  School buses weighing more than 8,000 pounds and operated upon any 
highway outside an urban district must carry warning devices, but the bus purchaser may elect to 
install the warning devices after the bus is purchased.  
 
a) The warning devices must be securely stored.  The warning devices required for 
use when lighted lamps are required (see Section 12 -201(b) of the Code) shall 
consist of:  
 
1) At least three liquid -burning flares and three red -burning 15 -minute 
fusees ; or  
 
2) Three red electric lanterns; or  
 
3) Three p ortable red emergency reflectors that meet FMVSS 125.  
 
b) In addition, the following warning devices are also required for use when lighted 
lamps are not required (see Section 12 -201(b) of the Code):  
 
1) Two red cloth flags (not less than 12 inches square with standards to 
support flags); or  
 
2) Two portable emergency reflectors that meet FMVSS 125.  (The reflectors 
in subsection (a)(3) of this Section qualify for this option.)  (See Section 
12-702(a) and (c) of the Code.)  
 
Section 442.APPENDIX A   Hexagon Shaped Stop Signal Arm  (Repealed)   
 
Section 442.APPENDIX B   Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Related 
Rules  (Repealed)   
 
Section 442.APPENDIX C   Specification Sheet for Reflective Material -- Encapsulated 
Lens (Based on FHWA Notice N 5040.17, June 15, 1976) (Repealed)   
      ILLINOIS REGISTER             10878  
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION  
 
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REPEALER  
 
 Section 442.APPENDIX D   Sheeting and Tape, Reflective:  Nonexposed Lens  (Repealed)   
 
Section 442.APPENDIX E  Octagon Shaped Stop Signal Arm