Buses and taxis (including shuttles), that carry passengers for hire or reward, must meet all the vehicle standards required of them. There are added safety requirements because they provide public transport.
Consultation on proposed changes to VDAM rule
The Government is consulting on proposed changes to the Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2002 (VDAM Rule) which regulates the size and weight of vehicles able to travel on New Zealand roads. Submissions are open until 17 February 2016. The discussion document and submission form are available online at www.transport.govt.nz/vdam .
Requirements for passenger service vehicles
The Land Transport Rule: Passenger Service Vehicles 1999 sets out:
- legal requirements which are checked when the vehicle is entry-inspected
- best practice approaches that drivers can voluntarily follow, for example:
- getting wheelchair anchorages, ramps and hoists checked and certified for vehicles transporting people with special needs
- having the towing connections checked and certified for when towing a light trailer.
See the additional licence requirements for drivers of passenger service vehicles.
Find out more about passenger service vehicle requirements
Read Is your passenger service vehicle compliant?
Driving a school bus
The Ministry of Education manages school bus contracts and has particular requirements to ensure school bus safety.