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Special Transportation Services (STS) Pre-Driving Orientation

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About Course

⚠️ IMPORTANT COMPLIANCE NOTICE FOR EMPLOYERS & DRIVERS: This online course covers the theoretical instruction required by MN Rule 8840.5910 Subpart 1. It does NOT replace the mandatory “Behind-the-Wheel” evaluation. By enrolling, you acknowledge that the employer is solely responsible for performing and documenting the driver’s behind-the-wheel driving test and practical lift operation demonstration prior to the driver transporting any passengers.

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTION FOR ALL DRIVERS: This module covers standard industry equipment (including lifts and large buses) for full certification. If you are currently operating a minivan, please view this as “General Industry Knowledge” required for future vehicle types.

The STS Pre-Driving Orientation course provides foundational training for drivers and attendants before they begin offering Special Transportation Services in Minnesota. This orientation ensures each operator understands essential safety, communication, and operational procedures required to transport passengers with care and professionalism.

The program introduces the key duties and responsibilities of STS personnel, including customer interaction, safe equipment handling, and emergency preparedness. Trainees learn how to operate wheelchair lifts, ramps, and securement systems; perform daily vehicle inspections; maintain vehicle cleanliness; and properly respond to emergencies while on duty. The course also establishes professional and ethical standards that promote trust and safety for all passengers.

Certification & Practical Skills Requirement: This course satisfies the classroom/theory pre-service training requirement under Minnesota Administrative Rules 8840.5910 Subpart 1. However, to be fully compliant, the driver must also complete the following with their employer:

  • Use of Radio/Communication Equipment (Subp. 1, Item B)

  • Hands-on Demonstration of Lift/Ramp Operations (Subp. 1, Item C)

  • Behind-the-Wheel Driving Evaluation (Subp. 1, Item G)

A “Driver Skills Checklist” is provided inside this course for employers to document these practical requirements.

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What Will You Learn?

  • Understand the core responsibilities and expectations of providing Special Transportation Services (STS).
  • Master essential safety procedures and communication protocols for transporting passengers.
  • Understand the correct operation of two-way communication devices such as radios or cellular systems.
  • Identify the steps for basic pre-trip inspections using the downloadable Daily Vehicle Inspection Checklist.
  • Visualize the proper deployment of ramps, wheelchair lifts, and securement devices via video demonstration.
  • Follow correct steps during medical emergencies, vehicle incidents, and unexpected situations.
  • Understand the safety protocols for using fire extinguishers and emergency warning triangles.
  • Apply sanitization procedures and body-fluid cleanup protocols inside the vehicle.
  • Review foundational defensive driving concepts including lane changes, parking, merging, and safe backing.
  • Access the mandatory 'Driver Skills Verification Form' to complete the behind-the-wheel requirement with an employer.

Course Content

Special Transportation Services (STS) Pre-Driving Orientation
The Pre-Driving Instructional Course is a mandatory requirement for all drivers before they are permitted to provide Special Transportation Services (STS), as outlined in the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Statute 8840.5910, Subpart 1. This course provides essential knowledge and hands-on skills to help drivers operate safely, responsibly, and with professionalism when transporting individuals with special needs. It also introduces the core principles of defensive driving to enhance both passenger and driver safety in diverse service conditions. The training covers a wide range of topics, including professional conduct, quality customer service, and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. Participants will learn how to conduct thorough pre-trip vehicle inspections and respond effectively to various passenger situations, including those that may be difficult or high-stress. The course also includes instruction on emergency readiness, such as the correct use of fire extinguishers, accident management, and warning triangle placement. In addition, drivers will gain practical knowledge in operating vehicle lifts, securing wheelchairs and mobility devices, assisting passengers on inclines or obstacles, and performing safe boarding and de-boarding procedures. Strong emphasis is placed on clear communication and safe driving habits, ensuring each participant is fully prepared to deliver dependable, compliant, and compassionate transportation services.

  • Being a Professional Driver
    03:59
  • Being a Professional Driver
  • Passenger Communication for NEMT Services Part 1
    02:10
  • Passenger Communication for NEMT Services Part 1
  • Pre-Trip Vehicle Check (Part 1)
    03:56
  • Pre-Trip Vehicle Check (Part 2)
    03:51
  • Pre-Trip Vehicle Check (Part 3)
    03:50
  • Pre-Trip Vehicle Check (Part 4)
    03:37
  • Pre-Trip Vehicle Check (Part 5)
    03:07
  • Pre-Trip Vehicle Check
  • Safe Backing and Defensive Driving Procedures
    02:20
  • Safe Backing and Defensive Driving Procedures
  • Professional Boundaries (Part 1)
    05:11
  • Professional Boundaries (Part 2)
    00:30
  • Professional Boundaries
  • Different Types of Difficult and Dangerous Passengers
    03:37
  • Different Types of Difficult and Dangerous Passengers
  • Fire Extinguishers and Safe Firefighting Procedures
    02:01
  • Fire Extinguishers and Safe Firefighting Procedures
  • Warning Triangles
    01:17
  • Warning Triangles
  • Accident Prevention and Common Collision Types
    02:52
  • Accident Prevention and Common Collision Types
  • Lift Operations
    02:13
  • Lift Operations
  • Securing a Wheelchair (Part 1)
    04:15
  • Securing a Wheelchair (Part 2)
    05:25
  • Securing a Wheelchair
  • Supporting Passengers Who Use Mobility Devices (Part 1)
    05:18
  • Supporting Passengers Who Use Mobility Devices (Part 2)
    06:04
  • Supporting Passengers Who Use Mobility Devices
  • Boarding and Exiting the Bus
    01:27
  • Boarding and Exiting the Bus
  • Passenger Communication for NEMT Services Part 2
    02:10
  • Passenger Communication for NEMT Services Part 2

References and Source Materials
This section lists all key references, manuals, and official resources used in developing the Special Transportation Services (STS) Pre-Driving Orientation course. These materials are based on Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) standards, federal transportation regulations, and industry best practices for driver preparation and passenger safety. The course aligns with MnDOT’s Special Transportation Services (STS) driver training requirements and introduces the foundational knowledge every new operator must understand before providing transport services. Emphasis is placed on professional conduct, vehicle readiness, passenger interaction, and compliance with safety and accessibility regulations to ensure safe, reliable, and courteous service delivery.

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