Idaho Written Driver's License Practice Test 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success

When drivers see a school bus with its red lights flashing, they must stop and do not proceed. This requirement is crucial for ensuring the safety of children who may be boarding or disembarking from the bus. The red lights serve as a clear signal that students are present and that vehicles should halt to protect them.

When a school bus has its red lights activated, it indicates that it is making a stop to either let children board or let them off. Drivers are legally obligated to stop their vehicles a certain distance from the bus, typically at least 20 feet away in both directions, regardless of whether they are approaching or passing the bus. This law applies not just to vehicles behind the bus but also to those in the opposing lane unless there is a physical barrier—like a median—separating their lane from the bus.

Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing lights can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and points on your driving record, and more critically, it puts the safety of children at great risk. Understanding and adhering to this law is essential for all drivers to help ensure the safety of students as they travel to and from school.