Safety is Priority One
The bus industry is regulated by the DOT (Department of Transportation). US drivers must carry a current USDOT Physical Exam Card, be drug tested, and maintain a log for miles and hours of operation. Coach buses currently are not required by law to have seatbelts.
The amount a driver can work in a period of time is regulated by DOT regulation 395.10. It includes:
- 10 hour rule. An operator cannot drive for more than 10 hours following eight consecutive hours off duty. An exception is only in emergencies.
- 15 hour rule. After 15 hours on-duty (driving and non-driving tasks), an operator cannot continue driving until 8 consecutive hours of off-duty time is taken.
- 70 hour rule. On-duty time cannot exceed 70 hours for any period of 8 consecutive days.
In Canada, Transport Canada regulates the Canadian charter bus industry. Operators are required to maintain a log for miles and hours of service. Alcohol is not permitted on board buses in Canada.
The Commercial Vehicle Drivers Hours of Service Regulations (SOR/2005-313) Act restricts the bus operator’s driving time.
- The operator cannot exceed 13 hours driving time per day.
- After 13 hours of driving time per day, 8 consecutive hours of off-duty time is required before the operator can drive again.
- The operator must have at least 10 hours of off-duty time per day. Daily off-duty time must include 2 hours that do not form part of an 8 consecutive hour off-duty period.
