Trainee bus driver and instructor reviewing a checklist beside a single-deck bus at the depot

PCV study notes

Carrying Passengers

Passenger comfort and safety, vehicle stability, doors and exits, and passengers who need extra help.

What this topic covers

Passenger comfort and safety, vehicle stability, doors and exits, and passengers who need extra help. The full PCV Theory Test & Toolkit app contains 67 questions on this topic.

In the app's syllabus: Passenger comfort, Vehicle stability, Driver attitude and Responsibility, Special passengers.

Worked examples

Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.

Example 1

What's the likely weight difference between an empty bus and a bus with 75 passengers on board?

A. 20 tonnes
B. 15 tonnes
C. 10 tonnes
D. 5 tonnes ✓ correct

Explanation: Your vehicle will handle very differently when it's full, compared with when it's empty. Having 75 passengers on board would increase the weight of the bus by about 5 tonnes - and the passengers may also have luggage. It will take longer to build up speed and the vehicle will be more difficult to stop. Forward planning and controlled braking will be required to allow for this extra weight.

Example 2

When may the built-in TV and video equipment be used on a coach?

A. During a coach tour
B. During long motorway journeys
C. When it cannot be seen by the driver ✓ correct
D. When the coach is moving slowly

Explanation: To prevent drivers from becoming distracted, TV or video equipment must be out of their sight. While passengers are being entertained, they can be sure the driver is concentrating on delivering them safely to their destination.

Example 3

Your bus is accessible to wheelchair users. In what situation can you refuse to allow them access?

A. When you're shortly due to take a break
B. When traffic behind you will be held up
C. When you're running behind schedule
D. When the designated space is occupied ✓ correct

Explanation: It's illegal for bus and coach operators to discriminate against people with disabilities. You must always make reasonable adjustments to the way that any service is provided. This means that you must allow wheelchair users access to the designated space - unless it's already been taken by another wheelchair user.

Example 4

What must you do before moving off when you're driving a service bus?

A. Take off your sunglasses
B. Make sure your fuel tank is above a quarter full
C. Finish issuing tickets to passengers ✓ correct
D. Make sure all passengers have a seat

Explanation: On regular services, traffic congestion can soon put you behind schedule. Nevertheless, you have a responsibility to your passengers at all times not to take shortcuts or jeopardise their safety; for example, by driving off while you're still issuing tickets.

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More PCV study notes

Get all 67 questions on this topic in the PCV Theory Test & Toolkit app.