An Accessible Minibus for Mixed-Mobility Groups
With a lift or ramp fitted, a minibus lets wheelchair users ride with their group instead of separately. Each one is laid out a little differently, so share your needs as early as you can.
How the layout works
Wheelchair positions take the place of some seats, so the more wheelchair users on board, the fewer seated passengers the same vehicle can carry. Luggage room shrinks as well. Let us know how many people will stay in their chairs, how many can move to a seat, and whether any chairs are powered.
Typical models
The photos show typical models in this size. Which vehicle runs depends on the licensed operator that takes the booking.
These photos show standard minibuses; they do not show a lift, a ramp or wheelchair positions. Say which equipment you need when you ask for a quote.
Minibus (16 to 19 seats)
Mercedes Sprinter
19 passengers · 15 bags
Ford Transit
16 passengers · 12 bags
Mercedes Sprinter
17 passengers · 14 bags
No blanket standard, so we ask
Federal accessible-transport rules don't cover charter trips or any bus of 39 seats or fewer, so a private minibus hire has no single national standard behind it. Each booking is arranged on its own: your requirements go to the operator, and the quote confirms the vehicle. In Québec, the CTQ's bus permits include a category for minibuses and buses adapted for passengers with disabilities.
For up to 24 passengers, the driver holds the ordinary minibus licence: 4B in Québec, 4 in Alberta and F in Ontario.
On board
- Up to 24 passengers: Ontario class F, Alberta class 4, Québec class 4B licence
- Federal accessible-transport rules do not cover charters or buses with 39 or fewer seats, so accessibility is arranged per booking
- Québec's bus permits have a category for minibuses and buses adapted for passengers with disabilities
- Lift or ramp access with wheelchair securement positions
Who books one
Seniors' residences and day programs planning an outing, families bringing a grandparent to a wedding, and cruise passengers moving from the ship to a hotel. For port days, note that the Victoria cruise terminal's own guide requires all of its shuttle buses to be wheelchair accessible.
Your questions
Can the whole group ride in one vehicle?
Often, if numbers are modest. With several wheelchair users a second vehicle may be needed; the operator will say once it knows the mix.
How much notice should we give?
As much as you can. Asking early widens the choice of suitable vehicles.
Is there room for folded chairs and walkers too?
Folded chairs and walkers eat into the luggage room, which the wheelchair positions have already reduced, so include them when you tell us what's coming.
Can a carer or companion come along?
Yes. Count them as passengers when you ask, so the seating works for everyone.