Apply for a bus operator licence

Before you start

To access DVA Online you must have a nidirect account and have had your identity verified. You will then be able to log in to the service and link your licences. To find out more about identity assurance and the documents you need to verify your identity see:

• Identity assurance

If you already have an account, or need to create an account, you can log in to the service using the green button below.

Your driver licence details also need to be right to use the online service. More information about keeping your driving licence up-to-date can be found at:

• Keeping your driving licence up-to-date

You can also renew or make changes through DVA Online. Customer guidance is available at:

• Manage my DVA taxi or bus account 

Additional information

Vehicles without a valid PSV will drop off the Bus Operator Licence at the grant application stage.

If vehicles are not listed on a BOL, they are not valid to use for hire and reward passenger transport, even though they may possess a valid BVL.

It is the Bus Operators responsibility to make sure that they have added all vehicles that they wish to use for hire and reward passenger transport.

Apply for a licence

You should apply for your BOL at least eight weeks before you wish to start operating, to allow time for the application to be processed. Once the application has been agreed in principle you will be asked to pay a fee of £78 per vehicle for the grant of the licence.

For queries about applying for a bus operator licence, email: TaxiandBusLicensing@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk

For queries about your identity check, email: nida@nidirect.gov.uk

To find out how personal information you send to the passenger transport licensing division will be handled when using this service go to: DVA passenger transport licensing division privacy notice.