Training and MiDAS

Who needs the MiDAS qualification?

All drivers must have a current MiDAS qualification in order to drive our minibuses.

What is MiDAS?

MiDAS (Minibus Drivers Awareness Scheme) is an award winning, nationally recognised, assessment and training scheme for minibus drivers in the voluntary and not-for-profit sectors.

MiDAS is administered nationally by CTA UK (Community Transport Association UK).

MiDAS Assessment provision

We have a trained MiDAS assessor to undertake the classroom based theory and on road driving assessment. The qualification is valid for 4 years, after which time you just need to complete a renewal assessment to remain qualified.

Which assessment - Standard or Accessible?

There are 2 levels of assessement - standard and accessible.

The standard assessment provides information on passenger safety, child passenger safety, defensive driving, accident and emergency procedure and responsibilities of a minibus driver.

The accessible assessment module is compulsory for drivers who intend to carry passengers with mobility difficulties (e.g. those travelling in wheelchairs and those who may require using the passenger lift). It includes information on securing wheelchairs within the minibus and use of the passenger lift in additition to the information included in the standard assessment.

How much does a MiDAS assessment cost?

The cost of the assessments are as follows:

Standard Assessment is £80.05

Accessible Assessment is £97.76

What are the requirements for the assessment?

You must be over 21 years of age and hold a full (not provisional) current driving licence.

It is preferable for drivers to have a D1 entitlement on their driving licence. If drivers do not have a D1 entitlement they are limited to drive buses under a certain weight. Currently Community Transport only has one bus under this weight which will restrict the availability of suitable buses to drive.

Drivers who passed their car-driving test on or after 1st January 1997 will not automatically have a D1 entitlement on their licence and are therefore required to meet higher medical standards and take a further test to obtain a D1 entitlement to drive a minibus in the U.K. and abroad.

Drivers who passed their test before 1st January 1997 retain their D1 entitlement to drive a minibus with up to 16 passenger seats in the U.K. Community Transport still requires that all drivers have a valid MiDAS qualification as well.

How do I book a MiDAS assessment?

If you are interested in booking either of the assessments you can contact us by phone or email or complete our online contact form.

Alternatively you can download an application form and return it by email to easylink@bhct.co.uk, or post to the following address - Community Transport, Preston Barracks, Lewes Road, Brighton, BN2 4GL.

 

• Download MiDAS Application form (PDF, 84KB)

 

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