PCV Bus & Coach Regulations 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the minimum annual mileage a bus must cover before an inspection becomes mandatory under a maintenance contract?
- There is no mileage-based trigger — vehicles are inspected at fixed time intervals (typically every 6 or 8 weeks) regardless of mileage (Correct answer)
- Every 10,000 miles
- Only after 50,000 miles
- The operator determines inspection frequency
Correct answer: There is no mileage-based trigger — vehicles are inspected at fixed time intervals (typically every 6 or 8 weeks) regardless of mileage
PSV maintenance inspection intervals are time-based rather than mileage-based. The Traffic Commissioner expects operators to inspect vehicles at regular intervals (typically every 4-8 weeks depending on operation type). DVSA guidance specifies appropriate intervals.
Question 2: Under the Working Time Directive, what is the maximum weekly working time for a PCV driver?
- An average of 48 hours per week over a 17-week reference period (or 60 hours in any single week) (Correct answer)
- 40 hours per week with no exceptions
- 60 hours every week
- 56 hours in line with EU drivers' hours rules
Correct answer: An average of 48 hours per week over a 17-week reference period (or 60 hours in any single week)
The Working Time Directive limits average working time to 48 hours per week over a 17-week reference period. Workers may work more in some weeks (up to 60 hours in a single week) but the 17-week average must not exceed 48 hours.
Question 3: What is a 'PSV annual test' and who conducts it?
- An annual roadworthiness test conducted by DVSA at an approved testing station — similar to MOT but specific to PSVs (Correct answer)
- A self-certification test conducted by the operator
- A quarterly inspection by the Traffic Commissioner
- An inspection conducted by the local authority
Correct answer: An annual roadworthiness test conducted by DVSA at an approved testing station — similar to MOT but specific to PSVs
PSVs must pass an annual test conducted by DVSA at an Authorised Testing Facility (ATF). The test checks the vehicle's roadworthiness including brakes, steering, lighting, and structural integrity. A pass certificate is required for legal operation.
Question 4: What does the term 'earned recognition' mean for PSV operators?
- A DVSA scheme where compliant operators face fewer routine inspections in exchange for sharing performance data — rewarding good compliance records (Correct answer)
- A bonus scheme for drivers with good records
- A certification for operators who have operated for 10+ years without incident
- A scheme for small operators with fewer than 5 vehicles
Correct answer: A DVSA scheme where compliant operators face fewer routine inspections in exchange for sharing performance data — rewarding good compliance records
Earned Recognition is a DVSA scheme where operators with high compliance rates agree to share performance data with DVSA in exchange for fewer roadside checks. It rewards operators who consistently maintain their vehicles and records well.
Question 5: A PCV driver receives a notice of intended prosecution (NIP) following a speed camera offence. What must the driver do?
- Respond within the time stated (usually 28 days), confirm or deny driving, and be prepared for prosecution if confirmed (Correct answer)
- Ignore it if the offence was minor
- Ask the operator to handle it — it is the operator's vehicle
- Only respond if the driver was definitely speeding
Correct answer: Respond within the time stated (usually 28 days), confirm or deny driving, and be prepared for prosecution if confirmed
A NIP must be responded to within the specified period (typically 28 days). Failure to respond is itself an offence. The registered keeper or driver must confirm who was driving. Professional drivers should be aware that speeding offences can affect their CPC and licence.
Question 6: What is the role of DVSA in relation to PCV operations?
- To enforce road transport legislation, conduct vehicle and operator compliance checks, test drivers, and investigate safety incidents (Correct answer)
- To issue PSV operator's licences
- To set bus fares and route requirements
- To manage Transport for London bus services
Correct answer: To enforce road transport legislation, conduct vehicle and operator compliance checks, test drivers, and investigate safety incidents
DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) enforces road transport legislation including PSV regulations, conducts roadside and operator checks, conducts the annual PSV test, manages driver testing, and investigates serious incidents. It is the primary enforcement authority for PSV compliance.
PCV Bus & Coach Regulations 3
What is the minimum annual mileage a bus must cover before an inspection becomes mandatory under a maintenance contract?