1 Hour Refresher

In line with Devon County Council standards and to reduce the risk to other road users, passengers, and drivers we recommend that anyone wishing to drive a commercial vehicle or school minibus with a passenger seating capacity of up to sixteen seats undertakes 3 Hour Initial Familiarisation training.

As best practice we recommend that all drivers undertake an initial familiarisation session with regular refreshers and re-training if necessary to maintain the safety standards and skills. Training reduces the risk to other road users, passengers, the driver and can in some circumstances reduce maintenance and running costs.

All our training is conducted on the public highway by a DVSA Approved Driving Instructor and includes:

• Safety checks (beginning and end of journey)
• Familiarisation with the minibus (handling, weight limits, braking)
• Proper use of seat belts and other passenger safety
• Emergency procedures
• Legal responsibilities
• Passenger care, including disability awareness.
• On road assessment covering different road types
• 20 question multiple choice test on the Highway Code

Drivers attending training come away fully prepared for the road with the practical skills, knowledge, an understanding of their personal and legal responsibilities and the confidence to drive the vehicle safely.

After the initial Familiarisation every driver should attend a re-assessment every 4 years to maintain their knowledge and skills. However, should there be a concern raised before this due to an incident, motoring offence or are involved in a road traffic collision, then we would recommend a re-assessment and possibly some additional training.

Devon County Council Certificate of Competence:

Red One is the approved training provider for Devon County Council Minibus Certificates of Competence.

Anyone wishing to drive a Devon County Council vehicle with a passenger seating capacity of up to 16 seats as part of Devon County Council’s Fleet or Schools must obtain a Certificate of Competence. The purpose of the Certificate of Competence is to ensure that you are driving a Devon County Council minibus in a safe and acceptable manner. It is also an opportunity for you to review and refresh your skills under the guidance of a qualified instructor.

Red One issues this Certificate of Competence on behalf of Devon County Council and all certificate holders must undergo a refresher session every four years before the expiry date. Any driver attending after the expiry date will be expected to come for the 1.5 hour test.

When completing the online booking form please enter the code sent to you by Devon County Council to receive the Council’s discounted rate.

North Devon Organisations:

For clients located in North Devon we can offer ‘outreach’ appointments, please select OUTREACH when completing the booking form.

Groups:

For clients who require training for more than 3 drivers, we can arrange for one of our instructors to attend your venue.

How to book: 

Please complete our Minibus Booking Form found by clicking HERE. and submit with uploaded driving licence and licence summary. to us with all required paperwork at your earliest convenience.