Beat the MTA Exams: Bus Operator and Train Conductor (2025)
The Metropolitan Transport Authority (MTA) is one of the largest public transit authorities in North America. The MTA is responsible for coordinating the travel of over 11 million passengers. The MTA uses the MTA Bus Operator and MTA Train Conductor Exam to make sure that all of its operators are competent and responsible.
Prepterminal’s all-inclusive guides are the ideal preparation resource for anyone who wants to work as an MTA Bus/Train Operator.
Free MTA Bus Operator Exam Practice Test
MTA Bus Operator Exam Practice Test
Overview of MTA Bus Operator Exam
The MTA Bus Operator Exam serves as a comprehensive screening tool designed to identify candidates who can meet the authority’s standards for safety, reliability, and customer service. With the MTA managing over 11 million daily passenger trips across 325 bus routes, the exam ensures that operators possess the necessary technical expertise, situational awareness, and interpersonal skills for this critical role.
The assessment process may vary slightly depending on the hiring agency—MTA Bus Company, MaBSTOA, or New York City Transit (NYCT)—but generally includes one or both of the following components:
- BOSS Exam: A 75-question personality assessment that evaluates traits such as dependability, stress management, and commitment to safety protocols.
- Multiple-Choice Exam (MCE): A cognitive test measuring written communication, spatial reasoning, memorization, and problem-solving skills through scenario-based questions.
Format of the MTA Bus Operator Exam
The MTA Bus Operator Exam is designed to evaluate various skills and abilities crucial for effectively carrying out the responsibilities of an MTA Bus Operator. Below are the main sections of the exam, along with the specific skills they aim to assess:
Written Comprehension
This is like a reading comprehension test. However, you will be shown passages and words that are commonly used by the MTA in bulletins, messages, policies, and regulations.
Written Expression
This section will test your ability to express yourself verbally. You will typically be shown incomplete sentences and will need to select the answer that completes the sentence. You must know the vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and word order rules when answering these questions.
Short-Term Memorization
As a bus/train operator you will need to have good memorization skills so that you can navigate routes. The questions in this section will ask you to find a complicated line of letters, numbers, symbols, or a mix of everything, according to a list or table.
Problem Sensitivity
This section assesses your ability to apply general principles to specific situations to reach logical conclusions. It requires evaluating whether a solution aligns with the provided guidelines or scenarios.
Deductive Reasoning
You will be given a passage that contains the state laws or policies of the MTA. You will need to read and analyze how these rules apply to a certain situation or question.
Inductive Reasoning
Inductive reasoning measures your ability to analyze individual pieces of information or specific details and identify overarching patterns or conclusions. This involves logically explaining why seemingly unrelated events are connected.
Spatial Orientation
This measures your ability to determine where you are in relation to an object or where an object is in relation to you. This skill is critical for navigating city routes and managing spatial awareness in traffic.
Visualization
In this part of the MTA Bus Operator Test, you will be asked to use your mental imagery skills. You will be given questions where you will need to identify the original object, pattern, figure, or person, after a number of changes. The changes will take place in relation to the position or appearance of the object.
Generally, the questions will come in the form of a unique geometric pattern/portrait. You will need to choose the answer that matches the original image.
Customer Service
This section seeks to assess how helpful you will be to the passengers and customers of the MTA. In this section, you will be given a short passage that contains a conflict or problem. You will have to solve the conflict. You will be given a number of choices varying in friendliness, intensity, approachability, etc.
Each of these sections is carefully designed to evaluate the practical abilities required to perform the role of an MTA Bus Operator effectively. Preparing for these sections ensures that you are equipped to handle the demands of the job and succeed in the exam.
MTA Bus Operator Exam Mastery
Course Content
Introduction2 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Written Comprehension4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Written Expression4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Short Term Memorization4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Problem Sensitivity4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Deductive Reasoning4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Inductive Reasoning4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Spatial Orientation4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Visualization4 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Customer Service5 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Full Size Practice Quiz2 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Why Choose Our MTA Bus Operator Exam Prep Course?
Preparing for the MTA Bus Operator Exam requires focused and effective preparation, and our course is designed to give you the edge you need to succeed. Here’s what sets our prep course apart:
Comprehensive Lessons: Gain a deep understanding of every test section with in-depth lessons that break down complex concepts into manageable, easy-to-follow content.
Diverse Practice Questions: Master all test areas with a wide variety of question formats designed to mirror the real exam and sharpen your problem-solving skills.
Realistic Practice Tests: Experience quizzes and tests that simulate actual exam conditions, helping you assess your readiness, improve time management, and track your progress.
Targeted Strategies: Boost your confidence with practical tips and strategies tailored to each section of the exam, giving you a clear plan for success.
Flexible Study Options: Access all course materials anytime, anywhere, and study at your own pace. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments, our course fits your schedule.
Prepare with PrepTerminal to arm yourself with the tools you need to succeed and turn your goals into reality!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
When is the next MTA Bus Operator Exam?
The next MTA Bus Operator Exam is Exam No. 5616, with the application period running from March 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025. The expected test date for this exam is April 28, 2025.
Who is eligible to take the MTA Bus Operator Exam?
To be eligible for the MTA Bus Operator Exam, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Driver License: Possess a valid NY State driver’s license for at least three years prior to appointment. Candidates must have either:
- Class A or B Commercial Driver License (CDL) with a passenger endorsement and no restrictions, or
- Learner’s Permit for a Class B CDL with a passenger endorsement (must obtain the full CDL during training).
- Military/National Guard Driving Experience: Candidates with recent military or National Guard experience driving commercial vehicles may qualify for a waiver of the NY State driving skills test.
- Medical and Drug Testing: Meet medical standards for the role and pass a drug screening. Random drug and alcohol tests will apply throughout employment.
- English Proficiency: Must understand and communicate effectively in English.
- Proof of Identity: Provide valid proof of identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.
- Residency: NYC residency is not required for this position.
What does the BOSS Exam entail?
The BOSS (Bus Operator Selection Survey) Exam consists of 75 questions that assess personality traits relevant to bus operation, such as dependability, safety adherence, and interpersonal skills. Candidates have 75 minutes to complete this exam.
How is the BOSS Exam scored?
The BOSS Exam is scored on a pass/fail basis. Approximately one-third of candidates may fail due to unsuitable personality traits that do not align with the requirements for safe bus operation.
What is the passing score of the MTA Bus Operator Exam?
A passing score for the Multiple-Choice Exam is typically set at 70% or higher. Candidates who achieve this score are eligible for consideration on the MTA’s employment list, but higher scores may improve chances due to competitive ranking among applicants.
Is there a fee to take the MTA Bus Operator Exam?
Yes, there is an application fee for the MTA Bus Operator Exam. Applicants are required to pay a fee of $68, and this fee is generally nonrefundable except under certain conditions specified in the examination notice.
Can I retake the MTA Bus Operator Exam if I don’t pass?
Candidates who do not pass the exam may have the opportunity to retake it, but this depends on the MTA’s recruitment schedule and policies. Retaking the test usually requires reapplying and paying the application fee again.
What happens after passing the MTA Bus Operator Exam?
Once you pass the MTA Bus Operator Exam, your name is added to an eligibility list. When a position becomes available, candidates are contacted in rank order to proceed with the next steps, which include interviews, medical exams, and background checks.
What is the best way to prepare for the MTA Bus Operator Exam?
The best way to prepare is by building the skills tested, understanding job-related scenarios, and practicing with targeted materials. Candidates using realistic test simulations and structured exercises often achieve significantly higher scores.
Our prep course provides in-depth lessons and realistic practice tests that mirror the actual exam, helping you master key concepts, familiarize yourself with the format, and build confidence to excel.
