MiDAS training for Minibus Drivers

As a MiDAS minibus driver, you will:

  • receive up-to-date training in the skills and information needed to drive a minibus
  • have your driving competence assessed to a national MiDAS standard
  • be able to drive a minibus for any MiDAS member without needing to be reassessed
Your training
  • You will complete a series of short online theory modules which should take up to 90 minutes to complete in total. You do not have to complete them all in one go, you can go back and complete them in smaller chunks
  • As part of the series of modules, you will also be required to undertake a theory assessment
  • Once you have successfully completed all modules and theory assessment, you can complete your individual practical session, followed by your Driving Assessment with a Driver Assessor. This will consist of a 45 minute session followed by a 45 minute driving assessment, conducted on a 1:1 basis.
  • You will be asked to produce your driving license, along with a share code/licence summary print out and undertake a simple eyesight check before completing your driving assessment

Once you have passed your driving assessment, online theory training and theory assessment, you receive:

  • a MiDAS certificate
Certification

MiDAS certification allows you to drive minibuses for any MiDAS member without being re-assessed.

You will still need to:

  • meet the organisation's insurance requirements
  • become familiar with the other member's vehicles
  • receive training in accessible minibuses if this was not part of your initial training

Your MiDAS certificate is valid for four years. After four years, you will need to undertake a Refresher Training session.

Refresher training

Driver certificates are valid for four years. All certificates are issued with an expiry date.

After four years you will be asked to attend a Refresher Training session. This will involve:

  • a reassessment of your driving ability
  • online theory training
  • a further theory assessment

Refresher training is important and gives you the chance to:

  • offer feedback on the MiDAS training scheme
  • receive information on changes to legislation and best practice
  • updates on key MiDAS training topics
  • have the opportunity to ask questions about MiDAS

Early reassessment

Your organisation may request that you take Refresher Training before your certificate expires if you are:

  • convicted of a driving offence
  • involved in a road traffic accident

It's up to your organisation to decide when Refresher Training is appropriate.

Failure to attend

If you fail to undertake your Refresher Training and your certificate expires, you can no longer drive minibuses owned or operated by MiDAS. This includes your organisation's minibuses.

Contact

To find Driver Assessors in your area, or for further information about MiDAS for drivers, please visit the Community Transport Association’s webpage.