BAKU, Azerbaijan – The Milli Majlis (National Assembly) has passed a new law expanding the list of mandatory documents and requirements for drivers seeking permits for domestic passenger and cargo transportation services.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the amendments to the Law "On Automobile Transport" were discussed and approved in the final reading during a plenary session of the Milli Majlis. The new regulations aim to enhance road safety and professional standards within the country's transport sector.
What are the new requirements for drivers?
Under the new legislation, drivers must provide official results of medical examinations specifically conducted to detect drug addiction or the consumption of psychotropic substances. Furthermore, operators are now required to possess documentation proving their capacity to organize pre-trip technical inspections of vehicles and pre-trip medical check-ups for drivers.
Alternatively, transport providers may present valid contracts with specialized technical stations and medical centers to fulfill these service requirements. Drivers engaged in public transport are also mandated to hold certificates confirming they have undergone specialized professional training.
For irregular passenger transport, the law introduces strict verification of insurance policies. This includes personal accident insurance for passengers, compulsory civil liability insurance for vehicle owners, and mandatory insurance against the loss of professional capacity due to accidents or occupational diseases.
The necessity for legislative changes
The Cabinet of Ministers and legislative bodies noted a critical need for improvement in domestic commissioned transport (excluding taxis). This necessity stems from a growing demand for irregular passenger services coupled with a high frequency of serious traffic accidents involving these vehicles.
Previously, the requirements for domestic commissioned transport were significantly more limited compared to taxi services. The new amendments bridge this gap by prioritizing the driver's health, professional competence, and the vehicle's technical integrity.
Current statistics and safety concerns
Recent data indicates that 3,764 admission certificates and 6,322 admission cards have been issued for domestic irregular passenger transport. For domestic cargo transport, 14,120 admission certificates and 43,135 admission cards have been provided. Citizens currently obtain these permits electronically through the "E-carrier" subsystem of the "AYNA" Information System.
A major point of concern for the government is that the average age of vehicles used in commissioned transport in Azerbaijan is 17.6 years. Authorities emphasize that standard technical inspections alone are insufficient to ensure the safety of vehicles of this age, necessitating more rigorous oversight.
Strategic goals of the new law
The primary objective of the legislation is to elevate safety standards and service quality. By integrating requirements from the Law "On Compulsory Insurance," the new regulations ensure that these norms are strictly verified during the permit issuance process. Additionally, new standards for the technical specifications and the internal and external design of vehicles used for irregular passenger transport will be established.
This legislative move is part of Azerbaijan's broader strategy to modernize its transport infrastructure and align with international safety standards. By ensuring that all drivers are medically fit and all vehicles are technically sound, the government aims to protect both passengers and the integrity of the national transport network. Following extensive deliberations, the bill was put to a vote and adopted in its third reading.
