New Rules for Student Transportation
On August 1, 2026, the new rules for student transportation took effect. The new rules are outlined in the Kerkrade Municipality Student Transportation Regulation 2026.
Below is a brief summary of the most important changes.
The new rules apply only to new applications this school year
The 2026–2027 school year is a transition year. This means that the new rules will apply only to new applications this school year.
- Are you applying for school transportation for your child(ren) for the first time for the 2026–2027 school year? If so, the municipality will review your application according to the new rules.
- Have you already been using school transportation for your child(ren)? If so, nothing will change for your child(ren) this school year. The new rules will not apply to your child(ren) until the 2027–2028 school year. So you don’t need to do anything.
Why are there new rules for school transportation?
The new rules in Kerkrade are more in line with how other municipalities organize their school transportation. This allows school transportation to better keep up with the times. The new rules also provide more flexibility for customized solutions.
What will change as a result of the new rules?
The kilometer limit is being raised
One major change is that the mileage limit for school transportation is being raised.
Under the old rules, students were eligible for school transportation if the distance between home and school was more than 2 kilometers. Under the new rules, students are only eligible for school transportation if the distance between home and school is more than 6 kilometers.
Nothing will change for students with disabilities. Tailored support will still be available for these students, even if the distance between home and school is less than 6 kilometers.
Personal Transportation Plan
The new rules allow for more flexibility. They also place greater emphasis on student independence.
That is why some students aged 11 and older will receive a personalized transportation plan. This plan helps students learn to travel to school independently. The municipality works with parents to determine which mode of transportation is most suitable and how the student can travel to school as independently as possible.
Additional Explanations and Information for Parents
Have you already been using school transportation for your child(ren)? After the summer, you’ll receive a personal letter explaining what the new rules mean for your child(ren)’s situation. The municipality will also send information about the new rules to all schools.
Are you not yet using school transportation, or would you like more details and information? The municipality is organizing an information session for parents who use—or would like to use—school transportation for their child(ren).
You can also contact the municipality by sending an email to leerlingenvervoer@kerkrade.nl or by calling 14 045.