BUS DRIVER AUTHORITY · NSW
NSW Bus Driver Authority
Understand the passenger transport authority process.
01 / THE VEHICLE
What does this category cover?
A Bus Driver Authority is required to drive a public passenger bus or coach seating 13 or more people. You also need the appropriate driver licence class for the vehicle.
02 / CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY
Before you apply
Hold a current Australian driver licence. Be at least 20 and have held a full Australian licence for at least 12 months in the past two years; or be at least 25 and have held a current non-learner Australian licence for at least three years in the past four years.
Transport for NSW assesses your driving record, medical fitness and suitability. An authority is distinct from an MR or HR licence.
- Have a commercial medical assessment completed within six months; your doctor must submit it to Transport for NSW for public passenger vehicle driving. Wait at least 72 hours before applying.
- Obtain a National Police check issued within three months that includes current and former names.
- Provide evidence of the required bus driver training, a copy of the front and back of your licence, and a valid email address.
- If you held an interstate or overseas licence in the past five years, provide the relevant licence history and traffic record. Further identity/photo requirements may apply.
GOOD TO KNOW
A clearer starting point.
Ask which required bus driver training course is available and who issues the training certificate.
Your own licence history and circumstances determine eligibility. Check the official guidance before paying for training.
03 / THE PATHWAY
Your next steps
- Check your eligibility and gather your documents.
- Complete the commercial medical assessment and obtain your Police check.
- Arrange the required bus driver training with an approved provider. You may submit the authority application before training is complete, but the authority will not be issued until Transport for NSW receives evidence of completion.
- Apply online through Service NSW and upload your documents.
Official information: NSW eligibility and vehicle definitions ↗.
READY TO TALK?
Make your next move with clarity.
Tell us about your current licence and the category you want. Ask about current vehicle options, training dates, inclusions and fees. For Bus Driver Authority, confirm which course and provider applies to you.