Washington State Department of Licensing Knowledge Test

When can you legally pass a school bus that has its stop sign extended?

1. When it is not in motion

2. On a one-way street

3. When you are on the opposite side of a divided highway

4. When you have a clear view of both directions

The correct answer is: When you are on the opposite side of a divided highway

The correct answer pertains to the specific traffic laws regarding passing a school bus with its stop sign extended. In Washington State, you are legally permitted to pass a school bus on the opposite side of a divided highway when there are no other vehicles or pedestrians obstructing the way. This is because the physical separation provided by the divider in a divided highway ensures that there is a safe distance between your vehicle and the bus, allowing for the possibility that students may be crossing the road to board or alight from the vehicle. It's important to remember that the laws are designed to protect the safety of students. When the bus's stop sign is deployed, it indicates that children may be getting on or off the bus, necessitating caution. In situations other than a divided highway, such as those mentioned in the other choices, passing a school bus with an extended stop sign would be illegal and unsafe as it increases the risk of accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists who may be in the vicinity of the bus.