Occupant Safety Resources

School Buses and Transportation to School

Transportation to and from school is a critical aspect of a child’s daily routine, and school buses play a vital role in ensuring safe travel for students. Understanding the laws and safety practices surrounding transportation to school is essential for parents, caregivers, educators, and transportation professionals.

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is a key classification used for school transportation vehicles. GVWR refers to the maximum allowable weight of a vehicle when fully loaded, including passengers, cargo, and the vehicle itself.

Regulations and guidelines for school buses and other vehicles are set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), including crashworthiness, occupant protection, and the use of Child Safety Restraint Systems (CSRS) for younger passengers.

School transportation vehicles are classified by the NHTSA into three categories:

  • Large School Buses: GVWR over 10,000 pounds, designed to transport more than 10 passengers.
  • Small School Buses: GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less, also designed to transport more than 10 passengers.
  • Type III Vehicles: Passenger vehicles such as cars, vans, SUVs, or trucks, with a manufacturer-rated seating capacity of 10 or fewer passengers and a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.

Minnesota School Bus Regulations:

Large School Buses (GVWR Over 10,000 Pounds)

Large school buses are equipped with compartmentalization, a safety feature where closely spaced, high-backed, padded seats create protective compartments to prevent injuries in the event of a crash. Seat belts are not required under Minnesota law, although lap belts or lap-and-shoulder belts with lockability may be optional.

Key Regulations:

  • Seat Belts and CSRS:
    • Seat belts are not required under Minnesota law, though lap belts or lap-and-shoulder belts with lockability may be optional.
    • It is recommended by the NHTSA that preschool-aged children (ages 3–5) use a CSRS that complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) while traveling on school buses.
    • Booster seats cannot be used on school buses. 
  • Proper Installation:
    • CSRS must be installed following both the vehicle and restraint manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the system is properly positioned and securely fastened.
  • Emergency Evacuation:
    • Students must participate in two annual evacuation drills.
    • Drivers and older students should assist younger children, and all emergency exits must be clearly marked.
  • Driver Training:
    • Drivers must be trained in the proper use of CSRS, occupant safety procedures, and emergency evacuation protocols.
    • Drivers should be familiar with compartmentalization safety features and ensure all students are safely seated.

Small School Buses (GVWR 10,000 Pounds or Less)

Small school buses typically include seat belts, and newer models (built after 2011) must be equipped with lap-and-shoulder belts with lockability. Depending on the seating configuration and the age of the children being transported, these buses may require the use of a CSRS.

Key Regulations:

  • Seat Belts and CSRS:
    • These vehicles typically include seat belts, and newer models (built after 2011) must be equipped with lap-and-shoulder belts with lockability.
    • Children must use a CSRS appropriate for their age, weight, and height, as per the Minnesota Child Passenger Safety law. 
    • Booster seats cannot be used on school buses. 
  • Proper Installation:
    • CSRS must be installed according to both vehicle and restraint manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Emergency Evacuation:
    • Drivers must be trained in quickly releasing CSRS in emergencies.
    • Regular evacuation drills are essential.
  • Driver Training:
    • Drivers must receive training in the use of CSRS, occupant safety procedures, and emergency evacuation protocols.
    • Drivers should be knowledgeable about the vehicle’s seating configuration and ensure proper restraint of children.

Type III Vehicles

Type III Vehicles, including cars, vans, SUVs, and trucks, are often used for school transportation, including vehicles used for Head Start Programs. These vehicles must have a manufacturer-rated seating capacity of 10 or fewer passengers and a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less. These vehicles must comply with the Minnesota Child Passenger Safety Law, and children must be properly secured in an appropriate CSRS.

Key Regulations:

    • Seat Belts and CSRS:
      • Children must use a CSRS based on their age, weight, and height.
      • Aftermarket accessories, such as buckle guards, should not be used as they can interfere with safety equipment.
    • Proper Installation:
      • CSRS must be installed according to both vehicle and restraint manufacturer’s guidelines.
    • Emergency Evacuation:
      • Type III vehicles should have an emergency evacuation plan in place and carry tools such as seat belt cutters for quick evacuations.
    • Driver Training:
      • Drivers must be trained on the safe transportation of children, including the proper use of CSRS, unique challenges associated with transporting children in these smaller vehicles, and assist children during emergencies.

Other Considerations

  • Aftermarket Items: Buckle guards and other aftermarket accessories that alter the intended use of seat belts, straps, or other restraint systems should not be used, as they may interfere with the proper functioning of the safety equipment.
  • Accessibility for Students with Special Needs: For children with disabilities or individualized education plans (IEP), parents and schools must collaborate to develop safe transportation plans. These plans should address any specific requirements, such as specialized restraints or accessibility needs.
  • Regular Training and Maintenance:
    • Driver Training: All drivers who use CSRS must receive training on the proper use of these systems, occupant safety procedures, and emergency evacuation protocols.
    • Vehicle Maintenance: School buses undergo annual inspections, and drivers are responsible for daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure vehicles remain compliant with safety standards and that all occupant protection systems function correctly.

Additional Resources

Disclaimer:
The information and materials found on this website are intended for reference and education. To ensure all passengers are using vehicle restraint systems correctly, please consult with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, as well as your vehicle’s owner’s manual and your child restraint owner’s manual.