PCV Bus & Coach Regulations 6

Question 1

What is a 'Tour Operator's licence' and when is it required?

Accepted Answer

Not a specific licence category — tour operators using PCVs need a PSV operator's licence like any other operator

Answer

A separate licence issued by the tourism authority

Answer

Required only for operators running more than 10 coaches

Answer

Required for cross-border coach tours

Question 2

What is the minimum frequency of preventive maintenance inspections the Traffic Commissioner expects for a bus used intensively on local service?

Accepted Answer

Every 4-6 weeks for intensively used local service buses

Answer

Every 6 months

Answer

Once a year is sufficient

Answer

Only when a defect is identified

Question 3

A PCV operator receives a 'call-up letter' from the Traffic Commissioner. What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The operator is being called to a public inquiry to answer questions about their operating compliance — serious possible consequence including licence revocation

Answer

A routine audit request requiring no attendance

Answer

An invitation to apply for additional vehicles

Answer

A standard licence renewal notification

Question 4

What is required when a PSV operator changes their transport manager?

Accepted Answer

The Traffic Commissioner must be notified within 28 days — the new TM must meet the qualification requirements

Answer

No notification is required — transport managers are internal staff

Answer

Notify only if the company name also changes

Answer

Notify within 6 months

Question 5

What does 'financial standing' mean for a PSV operator's licence?

Accepted Answer

The operator must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to maintain and operate vehicles properly — minimum amounts are set by regulation

Answer

The operator must be profitable

Answer

Only that the operator can afford to pay driver wages

Answer

Financial standing only applies to operators with more than 10 vehicles

Question 6

What is a 'restricted PSV licence' and how does it differ from a standard licence?

Accepted Answer

A restricted licence allows only own-account operations — operators cannot carry members of the public for hire or reward as a primary business

Answer

A licence restricted to one vehicle

Answer

A licence restricted to operations within one county

Answer

A licence for operators carrying fewer than 9 passengers