If you are planning to operate a minibus, you will possibly need to consider several questions regarding the licence entitlement. Such as, “do you have grandfather rights?” Or, “do you need CPC to drive a minibus?”
But one question you might not even think of is whether or not you need to complete Minibus Driver Awareness Training, also commonly known as MiDAS.
In short, it is not a legal requirement to complete MiDAS training to drive a minibus. You are allowed to operate a vehicle with up to 16 passengers if you fall under the following criteria:
- If you passed their Category B driving test before 1st January 1997, then you would have been automatically granted the D1 licence, but not for hire or reward, shown as code 101 on your licence (Also known as Grandfather Rights) as well as being at least 21 years old.
- You completed and passed your D1 minibus driving test (for anyone who passed after 1st January 1997, and/or if you are planning to operate for profit).
However, you may want to complete D1 minibus training if you automatically gained the entitlement, but have no experience with minibus driving whatsoever.
What is MiDAS minibus training?
MiDAS is completed by D1 drivers, who are operating (or with a D1 for certain councils) on a Category B licence, which means they are not driving for hire or reward.
MiDAS training is typically completed for non-commercial services, such as schools, extra-curricular activities, religious groups or residential transportation.
This will also depend on if you are being paid for this service & making a profit. If you are taking additional payment, then you must get your D1 licence through training and testing, then complete the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) initial and periodic training.
Although MiDAS is not a mandatory requirement, it is advised to complete it if you do hold grandfather rights, and do not need licence D1 licence acquisition. This is because there are so many more risks when carrying additional passengers in a minibus. This also doesn’t consider wheelchair users and additional equipment needed for passengers.
Is MiDAS Training A Legal Requirement?
MiDAS training is optional. You can choose to complete it if you want that extra peace of mind before operating a minibus.
However, some employers may expect you to complete MiDAS training as a requirement. It also helps drivers feel more confident in their driving ability. The extra training can help build competence and confidence for individuals.
What does MiDAS training cover?
During MiDAS training, you will be shown how to use the equipment on the minibus, as well as be trained on safety issues and minibus law. You can also choose whether you want (or need) to complete training for Accessible & wheelchair passengers. This is a more specialist course, as you will need to learn how to use accessibility equipment, or if you have care or supervision responsibilities for the passengers you are transporting.
You will also complete practical driver training, and you will also be assessed on your driving ability to ensure you are safe and competent behind the wheel.
Once completed successfully, you will be awarded a certificate of completion. This certificate is valid for four years, then refresher training must be completed to refresh the validity of your certificate.
If you’d rather gain some familiarisation on a minibus, or you are planning to drive for profit and require a Category D1 licence, then you can book your D1 training with 2 Start. You must complete minibus training and testing, including completing a driver medical, gaining the provisional licence, then completing the theory & practical training/testing.
Driving a Minibus over 70
If you are over 70, you will need to complete a medical, also known as a D4 medical examination report.
Permits
If you need to charge passengers for running costs, you can apply for a minibus permit. However, you must meet the following criteria:
- The vehicle carries 9-16 passengers
- You operate it for a voluntary organisation which benefits the community, such as an educational organisation
- The service is only for those who are actively involved with the organisation
- The charges are solely for the running costs and not for profit
Once again, in this instance, MiDAS is not a compulsory requirement. It is at the driver’s or organisation’s discretion as to whether MiDAS should be completed or not.
Interested in minibus training?
While 2 Start do not offer MiDAS training, we do offer D1 Minibus courses. If you are interested in getting your D1 licence, then you can book your Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driver training with 2 Start!
We offer different training hours depending on driving ability and experience.
Talk to our team on 02392 123 555 to find out what you need to get your licence.
