Minibus Roadworthiness & Maintenance

Minibuses, large buses and coaches regardless of whether they are operated under a permit or operator's licence are still public service vehicles and subject to spot checks by VOSA examiners as to their roadworthiness.

The operator licence/permit holder and driver are responsible for the vehicle's safety and condition when it is being used on the road.

If the vehicle is found to be unfit, a graduated fixed penalty notice and/or a prohibition notice could be issued by a VOSA vehicle inspector to prevent it being driven. Failure to obey such a notice is against the law and could lead to a heavy fine and your operator's licence/permit being revoked.

 

"A pre-planned and well organised maintenance regime"

Your organisation must ensure that all vehicles are subject to a pre-planned and well organised maintenance regime which includes;

 

• Driver Walk around checks and a driver defect reporting system
• Safety Inspections
• Servicing
• Checking any Specialist or additional equipment
• MOT's

 

It is your responsibility to ensure that any vehicle used, including any borrowed or hired-in, under your operator's licence/permit is also in a safe and roadworthy condition.

Licence/Permit holders who undertake their own safety inspections, servicing and repairs must have; competent qualified staff, adequate facilities and tools available appropriate to the number and size of vehicle being used.

For more information about managing a minibus and maintenance responsibilities please select the following permit or operator licence which applies to your minibus;

 

• Standard National operator's licence (commercial/Hire and reward)
• Restricted operator's licence (commercial/Hire and reward)
• Standard (Section 19) Permit (not for profit/hire and reward)

 

Still unsure?

 

If you are still unsure as to which licensing or permit legislation applies to your organisation, please answer these questions to help you find out.