Learn to drive a minibus
MiDAS minibus driver training
Hackney Community Transport has over 20 years experience in training people to drive minibuses. We deliver regular training Minibus Driver Awareness Training (MiDAS) programmes from our facilities in Hackney.
If you are a Group Transport member in Hackney and you would like to self drive one of our minibuses, then, subject to these conditions, you will need a current MiDAS certificate to be able to do this. MiDAS is the national standard for minibus drivers in the voluntary and public sector.
Our MiDAS training is financially supported by Hackney Council, making it easier for you to get the skills you need. It is delivered by instructors who bring years of practical experience that will help you get the most out of your course.
The course consists of a one day classroom session and a separate individual one hour on-road driving assessment. The programme includes:
- Legal responsibilities of driving a minibus
- Safe and environmentally friendly driving techniques
- Vehicle familiarisation and checking
- The correct use of passenger lifts and wheelchair restraints
- A certificate valid for 4 years upon successful completion
What does the course consist of?
Are there any course restrictions?
What does the course consist of?
Each training course starts promptly at 9.30am and finishes at about 4.30pm. You will need to bring the training fee, yourUKdriving licence (both photo card and paper parts), and a passport-size photo along with you on the day.
The morning session: The first session is classroom-based, which consists of course registration, minibus driving and the law, defensive and environmental driving technique theories and a multiple choice test. This should last about 3.5 hours.
The afternoon session: After lunch, the second session consists of some classroom and some ‘hands on’ practical tuition regarding accessible equipment – i.e. the correct way to clamp wheelchairs onto a minibus and the passenger lift operation. This should last about 2.5 hours.
The practical assessment: The trainer will make individual arrangements on the day with you for a suitable date and time for you to return to undertake the third part of the course, the on-road driving assessment. This is usually carried out on the following day. Please allow up to 90 minutes for your on-road assessment. The full course must be completed in order to obtain a MiDAS certificate.
How much does it cost?
MiDAS Driver Training £20.00 per driver
MiDAS Minibus Driver’s Handbook £5.00 each
Hi-Viz Vest (mandatory for those not providing own) £5.00 each
Where is the course held?
HCT Group
Ash Grove Bus Depot
Mare Street
Hackney
London
E8 4RH
When is the next course?
Our next courses in Hackney are on:
Wednesday 8th May
Monday 20th May
Monday 3rd June
Monday 17th June
Monday 1st July
We also deliver this course in Tottenham, please see here for details.
Additional dates can be arranged for groups wishing to train together, including weekends and evenings; minimum five participants.
Are there any course restrictions?
You need to be over 21 and have held a full UK car licence for at least 2 years. If you have 6 points or more, or recent driving bans, please speak to us in advance or be prepared to wait for insurance company clearance before you drive. Some foreign (non-UK) licences are acceptable – please ask in advance
If I have questions?
For all enquiries regarding MiDAS training, please contact us on 020 7275 2414 or by email to grouptransport@hctgroup.org
Book your place now
You can book your place for the course online here or by calling 020 7275 2414
