We train and assess all our volunteer drivers to the nationally recognised MiDAS Standard. MiDAS stands for Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme and our training has been developed in conjunction with the Community Transport Association (CTA).
Drivers are trained to the national standard for driving minibuses as permitted within the scope of their Driving Licences, up to a maximum capacity of 16 passengers. The training has been designed to enhance minibus driving standards and promote the safer operation of minibuses.
This service is also available to organisations that need to train their own drivers to MiDAS standards.
Successful MiDAS training is a requirement for anyone who wishes to drive our vehicles.
Each successful trainee receives a certificate as recognition of their accomplishment which is valid for 4 years,
Over the years RAKAT CT has provided this service to the community and has trained hundreds of drivers to MIDAS standards, with the ultimate aim always to ensure the safety of our passengers. At present we have over 500 trained drivers on our register.
The training for RAKAT CT volunteer drivers is free.
For some testimonials from some of our MiDAS Training graduates, click here.
What is MiDAS Training?
The MiDAS training itself is completed in two parts: theory and practical, and these are normally done on separate days. There is a standard scope of training for MiDAS and then there is an option for Accessible Training as an add-on.
The theory section of the training is classroom-based with no preparation required. The standard scope of training usually lasts around 4 hours, with the Accessible Training requiring an additional 90 minutes.
The practical section consists of an on-road driving assessment to confirm your confidence and capability in driving a minibus. This assessment lasts around 90 minutes.
Accessible training requires an additional 90 minutes during which you will learn and practice the operation of the lift and how to properly secure wheelchairs.
Who is eligible for MiDAS Training?
Anyone over the age of 21 years old can attend MiDAS training but the scope of the vehicles which can be driven (e.g. vehicle weight limit, number of passengers) will be determined by the eligible categories given in each individual’s drivers licence.
There are other restrictions that apply such as:
- A full manual British driving licence is required
- The licence must have been held for a minimum of 2 years
- No driving bans in the last 10 years and no more than 6 points on the Driving Licence
For more details on the MiDAS training please contact us at training@rakat.org.uk
Costs for MiDAS Training can be found in our user membership pack.
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