Apply for a bus driver authority

To drive a public passenger bus or coach that seats 13 or more people, you need to have a bus driver authority from Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

To determine your eligibility for an authority, and assess your application, TfNSW requires specific documentation from you before you apply, otherwise the processing of your application could be slowed down.

You can apply for a bus driver authority online.

Eligibility

• the holder of a current Australian driver licence
• aged 20 years or over, and have held a full (unrestricted) Australian driver licence for 12 months in the last 2 years, or
• aged 25 years or over, and have held for at least 3 of the last 4 years:
  • a current Australian driver licence (not including a learner licence), or
  • a nationally recognised overseas driver licence

  If you hold an interstate bus driver authority, you may be able to:

  • apply for a Bus Driver Authority under Mutual Recognition, or
  • work temporarily in NSW under Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR).

  Holders of a New Zealand (NZ) bus driver authority may be able to apply for a Bus Driver Authority under Mutual Recognition.

  What you need

  • a commercial medical assessment (completed no more than 6 months prior)
    It is most important that your doctor:
    • submits your assessment online directly to TfNSW
    • selects the option that the assessment is for the purpose of driving public passenger vehicles.
      This will prioritise your assessment and enable you to automatically proceed with your application.

    evidence you have successfully completed the required bus driver training course
    Note: You can submit your application before you complete the course, but TfNSW will not issue your bus driver authority until they receive this evidence.

    How to apply

    1. Check the eligibility requirements.
    2. Select the 'Apply online' button.
       Note: You cannot save and resume your application once you have started.
    3. Complete the online application form.
    4. Upload your documentation.
    5. Submit your application.

    You'll receive a confirmation message via email. If you do not receive the email within 30 minutes call (02) 8848 8700.

    Once TfNSW receive your application, they will respond within 10 working days. If you have not had a response in that time, call (02) 8848 8700.

    More information

    As part of efforts to boost bus driver numbers in NSW, the NSW Government has introduced a $70 fee waiver for those applying for their bus driver authority.
    The waiver ends on 31 July 2025.