School transport operators

Drivers and passenger assistants

Badges and licensing

All drivers and passenger assistants must hold a valid LCC-issued badge.

  • A current DBS certificate is required to apply.
  • If your DBS is registered with the online update service, the badge application fee is £12.
  • Lost or damaged badges can be replaced for £5.

Apply for a badge
Apply for a DBS certificate and badge
Request a replacement badge

Code of conduct

  • Always wear your LCC badge.
  • Renew your badge every 3 years (applications open 3 months before expiry).
  • Report all criminal convictions or court proceedings to LCC and your employer.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively with passengers.
  • Do not use personal devices while operating.
  • Be courteous, professional, and well-presented.
  • Never drive under the influence of drugs/alcohol.
  • Only transport passengers authorised by LCC.
  • Smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited.
  • Ensure child locks are always engaged.

Route suitability

  • Review approved pickup/drop-off (PUDO) points.
  • If an approved stop is unsuitable, notify your manager or email: TSG_Fleet&Compliance@lincolnshire.gov.uk.
  • Only accept route changes from LCC or your operator.

Passenger conduct

View the Code of conduct for school and college transport.

If a passenger misbehaves:

  • stop the vehicle safely or wait until drop-off to speak to a misbehaving passenger
  • stay calm and assertive; ask them to stop the behaviour
  • explain that it must not happen again as it puts everyone at risk

Inform:

  • the school/establishment
  • the passenger’s parents/guardians/carers (where appropriate)
  • your employer and LCC
  • the police in serious cases

Report all incidents and near misses online.

Unauthorised passenger exits

If a passenger leaves the vehicle at an unauthorised stop, or on route in a dangerous location:

  1. Call the police immediately.
  2. Inform LCC, the school, and parents/guardians/carers.
  3. Do not chase the passenger.

Forgotten bus passes

If a student forgets their pass and would otherwise be stranded:

If the route is a fare-paying service, the passenger must pay a fare from day 2 onwards until a replacement pass arrives. Travel on day 1 can be free of charge (FOC).

If the student is not eligible, LCC will inform you. You must then advise the passenger that:

  • they will need to pay a fare, or
  • transport will be refused

If you take a student to school without a valid pass, you must also ensure they are taken home.

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