Before obtaining a PBS Permit an operator requires a PBS Road Access Approval.

What is PBS Road Access Approval?

A PBS Road Access Approval is used to gain a Road Access Permit. All approvals are obtained from the Road Managers, i.e. State Road Authorities and Local Government. Once the consent has been provided the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) will notify the Operator and the Permit will be issued.

How can we help

• Operators may lodge In-Principle or Permit cases through the NHVR portal for a PBS approved vehicle. There are 2 options for this:

1. 1. 1. Network Access: Level 1, 2, 3 or 4 (Tier 1/2 Bridge Assessment)
      2. Single Route Access: Specific start and end address (Tier 1/3 Bridge Assessment)

• Each applicable Road Manager will be contacted by the NHVR and asked whether or not they approve access. Road Managers usually have around 28 days to respond or else they must provide a reason if access is not granted. Reasons could vary from:

1. 1. 1. Geometric Assessment: If a vehicle is larger (longer/higher) than those currently operated, the road managers will often request a geometric assessment to confirm if the vehicle will fit their network. Analysis may include a Swept path analysis, stacking distances, overtaking provisions or sight distances.
      2. Bridge Assessment: If a vehicle is heavier than those currently operated on road and it fails the Tier 1 Bridge Formula, the road managers will require a Bridge Assessment to be completed before an approval may be granted.
      3. Pavement Assessment: Road managers may seek to control axle loads if the pavement wear of the proposed vehicle is greater than the vehicles currently operating it.

• If the consent is granted the NHVR will notify the Operator and the Road Access Permit will be issued.