Under what condition can you legally pass a school bus in Texas?

In Texas, you can legally pass a school bus when it is on the opposite side of a divided highway. This is because a divided highway provides a physical separation between the lanes of traffic, meaning there is no direct interaction with the bus or the children who may be loading or unloading. The law is designed to protect students while ensuring that drivers can continue their journey safely when there is no risk of children crossing the road.

In contrast, it is illegal to pass a school bus when it is displaying flashing lights or when it is stopped to unload children, as these scenarios indicate that children may be entering or exiting the bus. Additionally, being in a hurry does not serve as a valid reason to ignore traffic laws or safety regulations surrounding school buses. Understanding these rules is essential for the safety of children and compliance with Texas traffic laws.