MiDAS Driver Training
What is MiDAS?
MiDAS (the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme) is a nationally recognised assessment and training scheme for minibus drivers, administered across the UK by the Community Transport Association (CTA). It is the gold standard for ensuring that minibus drivers have the skills, knowledge and confidence to provide journeys that are safe, legal and comfortable for passengers.
MiDAS is designed for both volunteer and paid drivers and is used by thousands of organisations including community transport providers, local authorities, schools and charities. The scheme promotes best practice in passenger safety, vehicle operation and driver responsibility, and has been trusted for nearly 30 years.
Holding a valid MiDAS certificate is the required standard for all drivers of:
- PACTO and its Members’ minibuses
- Community Education minibuses
- Pembrokeshire County Council minibuses made available for community use
PACTO also assesses drivers for organisations that use other minibuses, including vehicles owned or hired by community groups.
What does a MiDAS assessment involve?
MiDAS training and assessment is completed in two parts, combining on-line theory learning with a practical, on-road assessment:
1. Theory training and assessment Drivers complete CTA-approved theory learning on-line covering:
- Legal responsibilities and duty of care
- Safe and defensive minibus driving
- Passenger safety and comfort
- Health & Safety and emergency procedures
This is followed by a multiple-choice theory assessment based on the topics covered. The theory element must be successfully completed before the practical assessment takes place.
2. Practical driving assessment Drivers then take part in a one-to-one practical session with a PACTO qualified MiDAS Driver Assessor Trainer. This includes:
- Familiarisation with the vehicle and its controls
- Supervised driving with guidance and feedback
- An assessed drive against the national MiDAS standard
A MiDAS assessed drive is not a test. Drivers are supported throughout and will not be allowed to drive independently until they are confident with the vehicle, its equipment and the required standard of driving.
Accessible (wheelchair-carrying) training
Where drivers will be transporting passengers with disabilities or using accessible minibuses, MiDAS Accessible training is included. This covers:
- Safe use of passenger lifts and ramps
- Loading, securing and unloading wheelchairs (WTORS)
- Passenger assistance and disability awareness
A standard (non-accessible) MiDAS assessment is available for drivers who will not be carrying wheelchair users or using specialist equipment.
Certification
On successful completion of both the theory and practical elements, drivers are awarded a MiDAS certificate, which is valid for four years. Refresher training is required to remain compliant after this period.
Cost
£95 per driver
This includes:
- MiDAS theory training and assessment
- Practical driving assessment
- Instruction manual
- MiDAS certificate (valid for four years)
How to book
To book a MiDAS assessment, or for further information, please contact:
Craig
📞 07535 921528
Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Driver Assessments
PACTO also recommends and provides MiDAS-aligned assessments for drivers of wheelchair-accessible cars (WAVs), ensuring drivers are equipped to transport wheelchair users safely, respectfully and confidently.
While standard MiDAS applies to minibuses, the principles of MiDAS Accessible are equally relevant to WAV drivers and are widely recognised as best practice across community transport and social care settings.
What does the WAV driver assessment cover?
The assessment focuses on the safe operation of wheelchair-accessible cars and includes:
- Driver responsibilities and duty of care
- Safe driving techniques when transporting disabled and vulnerable passengers
- Use of ramps or tail lifts, including deployment, stowage and safety checks
- Correct loading, positioning and securing of wheelchairs
- Wheelchair tie-down and occupant restraint systems (WTORS)
- Passenger communication, dignity and comfort
- Emergency procedures and contingencies
Drivers will receive guidance throughout the session and time to practise using equipment. As with MiDAS, this is not a driving test – the aim is to build competence and confidence, not to catch drivers out.
Who is this for?
This assessment is suitable for:
- Volunteer or paid drivers using wheelchair-accessible cars
- Drivers supporting health, social care, education or community transport journeys
- Organisations wishing to evidence safe transport practice for wheelchair users
Certification and validity
Drivers who successfully complete the assessment will be issued with confirmation of training, demonstrating that they have been assessed to a recognised community transport safety standard. Refresher training is recommended in line with vehicle or role changes, or at least every four years.
Cost
£95 per driver
This includes:
- Theory discussion and practical assessment
- Wheelchair loading and securing instruction
- Assessment confirmation / certification
Booking and enquiries
To book a Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle driver assessment, or to check suitability for your service, please contact:
Craig
📞 07535 921528