Taxi logbook training fills gap in knowledge

Taxi logbook training fills gap in knowledge

The requirement for drivers of small passenger service vehicles to complete a training course to get a P endorsement was removed in October 2017 by the then government. This training included how to fill out a small passenger service vehicle logbook, among other things, and was useful for all drivers to induct them into the industry.

The lack of compulsory training is now causing risks for new drivers who are finding they are getting logbook-related fines. Recent statistics obtained by DT Driver Training from NZ Police under and Official Information Act request found that 2259 small passenger service vehicle and heavy vehicle drivers were given infringement notices in 2017 for logbook errors and omissions. A further 324 were processed through the courts for more serious logbook and work time offences.

Executive Director of the New Zealand Taxi Federation, John Hart, said, “Drivers of small passenger service vehicles need assistance to understand their compliance obligations, as well as learn how to be a competent and safe driver. Therefore, we have partnered with DT Driver Training to offer our members the Small Passenger Service Vehicle logbook course and the Fleet Driver Plan at a discounted rate. As the minimum logbook penalty is a $150 fine and 10 demerit points, DT’s logbook course, which is available to members at $20, is a worthwhile investment.”

Penalties range from $150-$500 and 10-35 demerit points for an infringement or, if it goes to court, a fine of up to $2000 per offence plus a minimum one-month disqualification. These kinds of penalties seriously affect the livelihoods of small passenger service vehicle drivers.

Darren Cottingham, director of DT Driver Training, said, “Many taxi drivers are new arrivals to New Zealand and have not necessarily had much experience with our road rules and legislation. These two online courses get them up-to-speed with what’s expected of them on our roads and how to comply with logbook and work time rules. We want them to be out there, earning fares, not giving their money to the government’s Consolidated Fund.”
For more information or to book a course demonstration, visit www.drivertraining.co.nz
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