Service permit system
The new service permit system started on 5 October 2015 and is one of the outcomes from DfI’s Public Transport Reform proposals:
- the introduction of the Transport Act (Northern Ireland) 2011
- the making of the Public Passenger Transport (Service Agreements and Service Permits) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015
This guide will help you to understand what you need to do to obtain a commercial bus service permit in order to operate a public transport passenger service in Northern Ireland who to contact and the details you’ll need to provide.
Bus services where a permit is required
The types of service which need a commercial bus service permit are:
- regular stopping services
- express services
- sightseeing services
- demand responsive services
- event-specific services
- taxibus services
Bus services where a permit is not required
The types of services which do not need a Commercial Bus Service Permit are:
- tours
- private hire services
- shuttle-bus services
Permit consideration
DfI will consider any new commercial bus service permit applications according to:
- the suitability of the route
- any other ongoing or previous applications
- how the needs of people likely to use the service are currently catered for
- the effect that granting a service permit would have on other permit holders or the contracted network
- the need to ensure fair competition
Commercial bus service permit documents
The following documents can be downloaded using the following link:
- Commercial bus service permit scheme application form
- Commercial bus service permit guidelines
- Current list of commercial service permits in Northern Ireland
For more information contact the commercial bus service permit unit on 028 9054 0470.