Q I have the opportunity to run a school bus
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service for which I propose to buy a I2-seater minibus. Do I have to obtain a road service licence for this purpose?
A Under Section 30(1) of the Transport Act 1968, the Traffic Commissioners may grant a permit in place of a road service licence for vehicles adapted to carry not more than 12 passengers to be used as a stage carriage or for school buses to be used as stage or express carriages. School bus permits will allow passengers, other than pupils, to be carried only if the passenger accommodation used for such a purpose is not and is not likely to be required for pupils.
Normally, these permits are valid for three years and the fee is LI a year. Though your vehicle will be used for a school bus and the question of using it for non-school purposes might not be relevant, it is as well to note that permits for non-school purposes are not issued unless the Commissioners are satisfied that there are no other transport facilities available to meet public demand on the proposed route.