PSVAR Home-to-School Exemptions: Applications re-open for two weeks

The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed that the PSVAR Home-to-School Exemption application process will re-open from 25 August to 8 September 2026, giving operators a further opportunity to apply for an exemption.

The announcement follows sustained engagement by the UKCOA with the DfT, including concerns around refused applications, missed deadlines and the potential impact on home-to-school transport services.

The DVSA application form will be available to operators throughout the two-week period.

Operators who need an exemption are strongly advised to apply as early as possible and not leave their application until the deadline.

Apply for an exemption from PSVAR accessibility regulations for home-to-school coaches

Applications open from 25 August to 8 September

The latest process is intended to give operators an opportunity to address a rejected application within the application window.

Applications will initially be assessed by the online system. If an application is rejected, it will be immediately re-assessed, with operators being notified of the rejection in time to allow them to re-apply where possible.

However, operators should not rely on this process to submit an application at the last minute. The DfT has specifically warned that applications submitted shortly before 8 September may not leave enough time for an operator to re-apply if the initial application is rejected.

For that reason, operators who require an exemption should apply as soon as possible.

Although the application process has re-opened, the eligibility criteria remain unchanged.

Operators should make sure they:

• use their coach fleet position as it was on 1 May 2026;
• do not include buses in their fleet calculation;
• remember that the exemption applies to coaches only; and
• provide all required information accurately and completely.

Care should be taken when completing the application, particularly if a previous application was refused. Operators should review their earlier submission and address any errors or omissions before applying again.

Previously refused applications

Operators whose previous applications were refused can use this further application window to submit a new application.

The re-opening of the process follows concerns raised by UKCOA about the impact of refused applications on operators and the availability of vehicles for home-to-school services.

If a previous application was unsuccessful, operators should review the information submitted previously and ensure that the new application accurately reflects their position and contains all required information.

Operators who missed the original deadline

Operators who did not submit an application during the original application window can now take advantage of the further opportunity.

The application window is relatively short, running for just two weeks, so operators who believe they require an exemption should not delay in making their application.

Already have an exemption?

Operators who have already received an exemption do not need to submit a new application.

However, having an exemption does not remove the need to comply with its conditions.

The DfT has reminded operators that the exemption conditions are legally binding. Early compliance checks will be carried out, and failure to comply with the conditions could result in the exemption being invalidated and enforcement action being taken.

Operators with an existing exemption should therefore ensure that they understand the conditions attached to it and continue to comply with them.

Backhouse Jones will continue to monitor developments from the DfT, DVSA and UKCOA and provide further updates as the position develops.

Need advice on PSVAR compliance?

Backhouse Jones’ specialist transport law team can advise on your individual circumstances. Contact Backhouse Jones to discuss your requirements.