Passenger Transportation Licensing Safety Requirements

Last updated on July 8, 2024

Passenger transportation services must meet all safety requirements to be licenced to operate in British Columbia.

National Safety Code Certificate

Before submitting an application for a passenger transportation licence, all applicants must have a safety certificate issued by their home jurisdiction.

Commercial Vehicle Safety & Importation

Applicants are advised to delay the purchase, lease, or short-term rental of vehicle until after approval of the service proposal. 

Read the Commercial Vehicle Safety & Importation Information Sheet (PTR5005A)(PDF) to ensure vehicle compliance.

General Authorization Licence Safety Requirements

Before a licence is issued you must complete a Commercial Vehicle Safety Compliance Declaration (PTR5005B) and list the vehicle you propose to operate under the licence.

You may be required to show proof that vehicles comply with Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (for example, digital photos or an inspection). The vehicle may need to be weighed to determine its legal maximum seating capacity.

Special Authorization Licence Safety Requirements

On occasion and at the discretion of the Registrar, special authorization applicants may be required to provide the Commercial Vehicle Safety Compliance Declaration (PTR5005B).

You may also be required to show proof that vehicles comply with Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (for example, digital photos or an inspection). The vehicle may need to be weighed to determine its legal maximum seating capacity.

Safety Guidelines for the Use of 15-Passenger Vans

The Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA) has issued guidelines for the safe operation of 15-passenger vans. When operated commercially, provincial safety requirements must also be met.

Contact information

For relevant contact information visit Contacts.