How NTSA school transport rules could affect parents and private car owners

Parents and private car owners who transport children to school are bracing for increased road safety scrutiny from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) as schools prepare to reopen. The authority has instructed school administrators to ensure school transport vehicles are roadworthy, properly inspected and compliant with safety regulations. While not every requirement applies to private cars, parents must still prioritize vehicle safety when driving their children to school.

NTSA advises motorists and school transport operators to service vehicles before the school year begins, focusing on brakes, tyres, lights and side mirrors. Routine maintenance, such as checking seat belts, tyre tread and pressure, light functionality and clear side mirror views, is crucial for preventing accidents or breakdowns while children are present. Overloading private cars with multiple children is also discouraged, as each passenger must have a proper seat and be restrained throughout the journey.

The authority's enforcement will likely target speeding, drink-driving, dangerous overtaking and distracted driving, emphasizing the importance of responsible driving during the school run. Parents who hire drivers or utilize private transport services should verify that drivers hold valid licenses and that vehicles meet all applicable requirements.

For regulated school transport, NTSA has reiterated requirements for valid driving licenses, Personal Protective Vehicles (PSV) badges for drivers and conductors, and functional speed governors transmitting data to the Intelligent Road Safety Management System (IRSMS). Vehicle owners operating school transport may face additional costs for necessary repairs or replacements identified during inspections, as well as ongoing compliance with inspection, licensing and insurance regulations.

While commercial school transport vehicles must adhere to the 2026 Motor Vehicle Inspection Rules, private car owners must focus on routine maintenance and repairs rather than licensing requirements. By prioritizing vehicle safety and adhering to traffic rules, parents can significantly reduce risks associated with transporting their children to school during the reopening period.