On 1 October 2017 changes to the way the passenger service sector is regulated were introduced. You need to be aware of these changes if:
This includes taxis, shuttles, private hire vehicles and app-based passenger services – known collectively as ‘small passenger services’.
There were also specific changes for dial-a-driver and third party facilitated carpool operations and for large passenger services (vehicles with 13 seats or more, including the driver).
Third party facilitated carpool operations
Changes for large passenger services
Please note: a number of passenger service situations were exempt from the changes, including traditional carpooling and local authority carpooling schemes.
Volunteer drivers and exempt passenger services
On 3 August 2017, Parliament passed the Land Transport Amendment Act 2017 that included changes for the small passenger service sector. These changes came into force on 1 October 2017. In addition, three related Land Transport Rules (Operator Licensing 2017, Work Time and Logbooks 2007 and Driver Licensing 1999) have been updated and came into force at the same time as the Act.
Land Transport Amendment Act 2017(external link)
Driver Licensing 1999(external link)
With new technologies now available, the changes are designed to enable the sector to be responsive to customer needs, encourage competition, allow for new technology and maintain safety for participants. This creates a level playing field for all, with similar rules applying across a range of small passenger services.
You can find out more about the background to the changes on the Ministry of Transport’s website.
Small passenger services review – Ministry of Transport(external link)
The safety of passengers, drivers and vehicles is an important priority. This is managed by:
Passengers and drivers can also find tips on these pages to help you play your part in ensuring your own safety.
