School Bus Stop Rules: When to Stop and When You Can Pass

Lights and Stop Rules

• Flashing yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop — slow down and be ready.
• Flashing red lights with an extended STOP arm mean you must stop (rules depend on the road type and direction).

How to Stop Safely

• Stop before reaching the bus and stay behind it.
• Leave about 20 feet (6 m) of space.
• Never block crosswalks or areas where children may cross.

Passing Rules

• Do not pass while red lights are flashing and the STOP arm is extended.
• Remain stopped until the lights turn off and the arm retracts.

When You Can Move Again

• Proceed only after the bus starts moving.
• Double-check for children before driving off.

Extra Caution in School Zones

• Stay alert — children may cross unexpectedly at any time.

State-Specific Differences

Always check your state’s official driver handbook.

• In New York State, you must stop for a stopped school bus EVEN IF it is on the opposite side of a divided highway.
• In South Carolina, you do NOT have to stop for a stopped school bus on the opposite side of an UNDIVIDED road of at least four lanes.