Can I go around a stopped school bus without getting a ticket? What CA law says
From slowing down in school zones to yielding to pedestrians, the California Vehicle Code outlines clear rules every driver must follow.
But what about stopping for a school bus with flashing lights? Can you go around without getting a ticket?
“More students are killed while getting on or off a school bus each year than are killed as passengers inside of a school bus,” the California Commercial Driver Handbook says. “As a result, knowing what to do before, during, and after loading or unloading students is critical.”
Here’s a quick guide to the state’s school bus stop laws, how they protect children and the penalties for breaking them:
Do I have to stop behind a stopped school bus in California?
When a school bus is about to stop, its yellow lights will flash to warn nearby drivers.
Once the bus stops, red lights will flash and a stop sign will swing out.
“All vehicles must stop for school buses,” the California Driver’s Handbook says.
Buses usually stop before crossing train tracks or when children are boarding or exiting.
“When the bus flashes red lights (located at the top, front, and back of the bus), you must stop from either direction until the children are safely across the street and the lights stop flashing,” the handbook says. “Remain stopped while the red lights are flashing.”
According to California Vehicle Code 22454, drivers must stop when a school bus is loading or unloading passengers with its red lights flashing and stop sign extended — but the rules can change depending on the road type.
On two-way streets, including those with a center turn lane, traffic in all directions must stop.
On four-lane roads, only drivers traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop. Vehicles on the opposite side may continue moving but should do so with extra caution.
Can I get a ticket for not stopping behind a school bus with its lights on?
Passing a stopped school bus can result in steep fines and other penalties.
“If you fail to stop, you may be fined up to $1,000 and your driving privilege could be suspended for one year,” the California Driver’s Handbook says.
According to Shouse California Law Group, here’s a breakdown of the costs for each offense:
- First offense: Fines range from $150 to $250.
- Second offense: Fines range from $500 to $1,000.
- Third offense (within three years): Driving privileges are revoked for one year.
A bus driver who witnesses a violation can make a report within 24 hours, according to the California Vehicle Code.
This story was originally published August 11, 2025 at 12:22 PM with the headline "Can I go around a stopped school bus without getting a ticket? What CA law says."
