Holders of public service vehicle licences were reminded that a two-week window to apply for rideshare permits will remain open until 5pm on May 14.

Specific eligibility requirements for anyone interested also include that the vehicle must be a private car used mainly for personal transportation or a purpose-built vehicle that can transport someone who requires mobility assistance.

Successful applicants will be holders of PSV licences but those that cover only heavy trucks or community service vehicles do not qualify.

A total of 150 ridesharing permits are expected to be issued as part of the initial roll-out of the scheme, with operations expected to begin on June 10.

Ten of the 150 permits will be allocated for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, the Government said.

A spokeswoman added: “The initiative has been designed to strengthen Bermuda’s transportation network, improve availability during periods of high demand and provide residents and visitors with an additional regulated option for getting around the island.”

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, added: “Our approach remains clear: taxi first, rideshare when needed.

“This initiative is about improving transportation reliability, supporting passenger safety and ensuring that Bermuda has a modern, regulated framework that works for residents, visitors and the wider economy.”

If the number of eligible, completed applications exceeds 150 at the close of the application period, random selections will be made by an independent third party, the Government said.

Mr Darrell added: “This is a regulated, limited and accountable model. It is not an open-market ridesharing system.

“It has been developed to protect standards, preserve taxi priority and provide additional capacity when it is needed most.”

External ridesharing companies are not permitted to operate in Bermuda.

To apply for a permit, visit the Transport Control Department’s website at www.tcd.bm for application details, requirements and guidance.

Answers to common questions can be found at www.gov.bm/ridesharing-frequently-asked-questions.