Driver Authority for Bus: What Do They Need?

Have you ever wondered what is a bus driver authority? What credentials do they need in order to become a bus driver? The process of obtaining the DA includes an assessment of your driving skills, knowledge, and attitude. Additionally, it includes a criminal background check and a medical examination.

If you are successful, you will receive a DA that is valid for five years. So if you are thinking about driving a PPV in NSW, make sure you get your DA first. It’s the law, and thus, the best way to protect your passengers and your career.

NSW Driver Authority: PPV Driver Accreditation

Driver accreditation is a requirement for anyone who wants to drive a public passenger vehicle, such as a bus, taxi or ride-share vehicle. Furthermore, the accreditation process varies by state but generally involves meeting certain requirements, such as:

• holding a valid driver’s licence,
• having valid identification documents
• passing a medical assessment to assess that you’re medically fit for the job, and 
• completing a training course.

In NSW, to drive a public passenger bus or coach that seats 13 or more people, you need to have an authority from Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

Before you apply, you have to check if you have the documents for the application and if you are eligible to apply. To be eligible:

1. Age: You must be at least 20 years old.
2. Driving Experience: Hold a full (unrestricted) Australian driver’s licence for a minimum of 12 months within the past 2 years.
3. Driving Record: TfNSW will assess your driving history to ensure you’re a safe driver.
4. Suitability: You must be a “fit and proper person” to hold a licence. Hence, this will involve a background check.
5. Work Authorisation: You must have legal authority to work in Australia.

Furthermore, the documents you should have are the following:

1. A copy of your driver’s licence (scanned as a PDF)
2. A secondary proof of identity.
3. A valid email address.
4. A National Police check issued no more than 3 months prior to this application. What if you cannot arrange a police check? If so, Transport for NSW will send you a one-time link that will enable them to complete the police check on your behalf.
5. A commercial medical fitness assessment.
6. Your bus driving training course certificate or proof of completion.

You can apply online through this portal.

Responsibilities of a Bus Driver

Bus drivers in NSW play a vital role in keeping communities connected. Their responsibilities ensure the safety, comfort, and smooth operation of bus services. Here’s a breakdown of their key duties:

• Passenger Safety: This is paramount. Firstly, bus drivers must prioritize safe driving practices, follow procedures for passenger boarding and exiting, and assist those with disabilities or requiring extra help.
• Cleanliness and Professionalism: Secondly, a bus driver must maintain a clean and tidy bus environment, both inside and out, is key. Drivers themselves must present a neat and professional appearance while on duty, which includes wearing enclosed shoes.
• Courtesy and Customer Service: Thirdly, bus drivers interact with passengers throughout the day. They are expected to be courteous, respectful, and helpful, providing a positive customer service experience.
• Following Rules and Regulations: Fourthly, bus drivers must adhere to traffic laws, speed limits since specific bus operation regulations is crucial.
• Valid Bus Driver Authority: Fifth, a valid Bus Driver Authority issued by TfNSW is mandatory for all bus drivers in NSW.
• Maintaining Qualifications: Finally, TfNSW assesses potential drivers to ensure they possess the necessary skills and attributes to fulfill these responsibilities and contribute to the safe and efficient operation of NSW bus services.

Bus Driver Authority Training

To become a bus driver in New South Wales, you need to undergo training that covers the proficiency standards set by Transport for NSW. Therefore, you need to follow these:

1. Course duration. The Bus Driver Authority course is a half-day training program. It is designed for anyone who wants to obtain the qualifications to drive a public passenger vehicle.

2. Course content. The course covers topics such as road rules, passenger safety, and customer service. It is conducted by a Certificate IV qualified trainer/assessor with many years of experience providing the best training.

3. Assessment. The knowledge required to become a public passenger bus driver is assessed by authorised trainers. Furthermore, the assessment includes both written and practical components.

4. Course delivery: The Bus Driver Authority course can be delivered in different ways. Some providers offer online courses that can be successfully completed from the comfort of your own home, while others offer face-to-face training in small group workshops.

5. Course fee. The cost of the Bus Driver Authority course varies depending on the provider. The course application fee can also range from $199 to $350.

6. Approval by Transport for NSW. Transport for NSW must approve the Bus Driver Authority. This will ensure that it meets the required standards. To sum up, you should choose a provider approved by Transport for NSW to ensure that the training is recognised.

Here are the accredited training providers:

1. Into training Australia
2. Intertrain
3. JKR Training for Business
4. Driver Training NSW

If you’re looking for accredited training providers for other types of vehicles and driving authorities, you might want to check out this complete list. Therefore, choosing a reputable training provider that offers high-quality training will ensure that you are well-prepared for the responsibilities of the job.

Our Traffic Offence Lawyers

Traffic offence lawyers can provide services to people charged with traffic offences, including those related to driving authority. At JB Solicitors, our lawyers will provide you with legal advice and guidance throughout the legal process.

Moreover, we can also provide legal protection for individuals who are dealing with traffic offences. It is of utmost importance that our clients understand their legal rights and options. Additionally, here are other traffic matters that we may help you with:

• Drink driving (DUI/DWI)
• Speeding tickets
• Reckless driving
• Red light violations
• Driving with a suspended driver licence 
• Renewing a bus driver authority online
• Aid in passenger transport driver authorisation application forms
• Help in drivers licence suspension or disqualification disputes

Lastly, speak to our traffic offence lawyers today if you want further information about traffic-related charges. Submit an enquiry here.