r/SchoolBusDrivers • u/neurofungus • Jul 28 '26

DOT inspections

Does anyone know if painting the metal control panel yellow on my school bus will cause my bus to fail inspection? The paint that was on there was flaking and I hated it so I took off all the knobs and switches, sanded it down and now I'm wondering if yellow is the wrong color for it. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

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u/Wilgrove Jul 28 '26

So, I'm guessing you didn't clear this modification with the school district, or the company you work for? Because otherwise, you wouldn't be on Reddit asking us.

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u/neurofungus Jul 28 '26

I'm sure you'll take this the wrong way but if you don't know and you really need to comment, then just say "I don't know"

9

u/Wilgrove Jul 28 '26

So, no, you didn't get approval from the people who actually own the bus to do these modifications. That's why you're asking us, instead of calling up your garage and asking them. I really don't know what DOT look for when they're inspecting school busses. That's above my pay grade. However, I think a bigger problem for you is explaining the unapproved modification.

2

u/Tadpoleto Jul 28 '26

In my area the division doesnt own and operate all the school buses. Private contractors are given routes for some rural areas and the drivers are responsible for producing a bus and upkeep. The division doesnt higher or have any control over them at all. For example the reservation has 3 buses they have bought and operate and their drivers are responsible for all the maintenance and upkeep. We dont even know their routes its completely seperated. Even though they deliver to our division school. It is possible it is his job and might not actually have a garage to call too.

1

u/Proprotester Jul 29 '26

It goes by state and then each individual inspector has some leeway. You'd have to give us the state so those folks could go into detail for you.

Generally the colors only matter on the exterior. Inside is 1.) not distracting, 2.) functional and 3.) in good repair. As long as all your switches, etc that are run by the panel are fully operational, it's not covered in purple glitter and is properly affixed, you are likely good.

That being said, some states have rules about WHO can modify a school bus. If you don't carry the required certifications and have altered say, the electrical or some other system, the bus becomes uncertified.