The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued guidance to organizations and businesses that transport passengers in interstate commerce, clarifying existing FMCSA regulations and requirements that have been changed over the years through legislation, rulemaking, and litigation.

“Passengers traveling by motorcoaches, buses, and vans have every right to expect that the vehicle is safe and that their driver is fully qualified, without exception,” said Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “Motor carriers that are hired and that receive payment to transport passengers must thoroughly understand and fully comply with safety regulations that exist to protect everyone traveling on our nation’s roadways.”

In providing this guidance, FMCSA has also constructed an online resource page to help advise businesses and organizations that provide interstate passenger transportation services, including hotel-related shuttle bus or van operations; employer-related services; education-related institutions; faith-based organizations; and passengers using multiple transportation modes.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) set minimum safety standards for motor carriers, vehicles, and drivers operating in interstate commerce — defined generally as trade, traffic, or transportation in the U.S. traveling across state lines. An organization or a business operating a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce, unless otherwise specifically excepted, is subject to FMCSRs. These regulations, which may or may not apply, depending on the operation, include FMCSA registration requirements, minimum levels of insurance, random drug and alcohol testing, driver licensing, hours-of-service limitations to prevent fatigued driving, vehicle safety inspection and maintenance, and other requirements.

“Travel by motorcoach, bus, van, or shuttle is among the safest forms of transportation in the country,” said FMCSA Administrator T.F. Scott Darling, III. “This guidance will help improve safety by clarifying which federal safety rules apply to certain passenger carrier operations.”

The regulatory guidance provides clarity about U.S. DOT operating authority registration requirements, minimum levels of financial responsibility, and the applicability of safety and commercial regulations.

To read the passenger carrier guidance Federal Register notice and submit comments, click here.