Interesting.
St Helens bus drivers must go through same application process as taxi
https://www.sthelensstar.co.uk/news/195 ... cess-taxi/
BUS drivers in St Helens who wish to carry out council-contracted work must now go through the same application process as taxi drivers.
This only relates to council-contracted work, not to private firms.
St Helens Borough Council says the application fees are much cheaper than for someone wishing to become a licensed taxi driver and that the licence is given for contract work only.
A council spokesman said: “The safety of residents and visitors who are travelling under our care is of the highest importance to us, whether they travel via council-contracted bus transport or locally licensed taxis.
“Because of this duty of care, last year the council made the decision that anyone providing public transport on a council contract, goes through the same application process as a taxi driver, from DBS and DVLA checks to our own essential skills assessment.
“The application process to become a taxi driver varies from place to place, but we take pride in the fact that ours is so robust and time-tested, ensuring the safety of customers and a high standard of service.
“It does not apply to all bus drivers, only to those who wish to gain work from the council.”