The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), the regulatory authority for transportation in Abu Dhabi, has introduced requirements for school bus operators.
These guidelines ensure safety and professional standards for all drivers employed to transport students.
School Bus driver permit: What operators must do?
To hire or employ a school bus driver, operators are now required to obtain a School Bus Driver Permit from the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT). To apply for this permit, operators must ensure that their drivers meet nine key conditions.
Key requirements for school bus driver applicants
Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 25 years old.
Valid UAE Driving License: Drivers must have held a UAE driving license for a minimum of one year before submitting their application.
Certificate of Good Conduct: Residents of the UAE must submit a certificate of good conduct issued by the Abu Dhabi Police General Command. Drivers from abroad must provide a similar certificate from their home country, no older than one month and duly attested.
Language Proficiency: Applicants must be fluent in either Arabic or English.
Training: All applicants must complete the training prescribed by the DMT.
Documentation: Applicants need to submit copies of their passport, residence permit, and Emirates ID.
Driving Record: A record of any violations from the unified system must be provided.
Medical Report: A biennial medical report is required to confirm the driver is free from a range of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, mental health disorders, hearing or vision impairments, addiction, and other serious illnesses.
Re-examination: After every vacation period, a medical re-examination is mandatory to ensure ongoing health fitness.
Responsibilities of school bus drivers
School bus drivers in Abu Dhabi are entrusted with significant safety and operational responsibilities. These include:
Pre-Trip Inspection: Drivers must conduct a daily inspection of the bus before departure, ensuring all systems are operational.
Reporting Malfunctions: Any malfunctions or issues found during inspection must be immediately reported to the operator.
Ensuring Bus Safety: Drivers must ensure the bus is completely empty of students upon arrival at the designated destination.
Safety Equipment: It is essential that the bus is equipped with first aid kits and fire extinguishers.
Clearance of Obstructions: All entrances, exits, and passageways must be kept free of obstructions.
Bus Preparation: The bus should be ready to receive students in advance, including maintaining cleanliness and ensuring the internal temperature (via air conditioning) is set between 21-24°C.
Speed Limits: Drivers must adhere to the legal speed limits on each street and ensure safe driving.
Using Stop Signs and Hazard Lights: The stop arm and hazard lights must be used when students are crossing roads, boarding, or disembarking in designated areas.
Designated Drop-Off Points: Students are only allowed to disembark at the designated drop-off point, unless written instructions from the school are provided.
Professional Appearance: Drivers must maintain a neat appearance and wear the official uniform while on duty.
No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited on school buses.
Reporting Student Misconduct: Any instances of student misconduct must be reported to the school coordinator.
The new guidelines introduced by Abu Dhabi Mobility are designed to enhance the safety and professionalism of school transportation. By ensuring that both school bus operators and drivers meet strict criteria, these measures will help provide a secure environment for students.
If you’re an operator or a prospective school bus driver, make sure you’re up-to-date with these essential requirements to comply with local regulations.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
