Does operating under the Notice mean I have to take my vehicle out of the PBS scheme?

No, you don’t have to take your vehicle out of the scheme. Your current PBS vehicle approval will continue to apply. The Notice simply provides the option for operators to include this combination in their heavy vehicle fleet without having to go through the PBS approval process.

Can I still have a 3-axle truck and 4-axle dog trailer that doesn’t exceed 20 metres in length assessed under the PBS scheme?

Yes, you can. Choosing to operate these vehicles outside the PBS scheme is completely optional. The NHVR will still accept and assess applications for these vehicles under the PBS scheme.

I have been operating under PBS permits. Do I now have to operate under this Notice?

No, you don’t. You can continue to operate under PBS permits. Use of this Notice is completely optional.

I have been operating under PBS permits. Can I now operate under this Notice?

Yes, you can, as long as you comply with all the conditions of the Notice. See the ‘Conditions’ tab in the Operator’s Guide for all dimension, mass and vehicle conditions.

Do I need to submit an application and obtain NHVR approval to operate under this Notice?

No, you don’t, as long as you comply with all the conditions of the Notice, you can operate on the approved networks. See the ‘Conditions’ tab in the Operator’s Guide for more information.

Which are the approved networks under the Notice?

You can find these in the Operator’s Guide under the ‘Network and Mapping’ tab. Please note that where a network is called, for example, PBS Level 1 or PBS Level 2A, this is the name of the network. It does not relate to the class of the vehicle, which in the case of this Notice is Class 3.

What do I do if the road I want to operate on isn’t on an approved network?

You will need to apply for a permit (Class 3 20m truck and dog) through the NHVR Portal. See ‘Applying for a permit’ under the ‘Network and Mapping’ tab in the Operator’s Guide. Access will be decided by the relevant road manager. This application will be subject to the normal processing times for permits.

I have a fleet of existing PBS approved vehicles running under other notices and permits. Do I have to use this Notice?

No, you have the choice to operate under this Notice or under other notices and permits. However, vehicles operating under the Notice must comply with all the conditions of the Notice.