When renting a prom limousine within the state of California, most reputable companies will require both parents and the teens who are going to the prom, to sign a Minors and Alcoholic Beverage contract agreement.  Under state law, California limousine companies are prohibited from allowing consumption of alcohol in there vehicles when all passengers are under the age of 21.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulates all limousine companies who operate within the state of California.  According to the CPUC Rules of Practice & Procedure, Public Utility Code 5384.1 states that the driver of a limousine for hire is required to inform all passengers under the age of 21 the following statements:

-Consumption of alcohol within the limousine is unlawful.
-Transportation of alcohol is not allowed in the passenger compartment of the limousine.
-Limousine service will be terminated and will return to the original pick-up address if any minor is found to be or have been consuming alcohol during the limousine rental.

After the reading of the statements, the chauffeur is required to have all passengers sign the statement.  Many prom contract agreements also include a clause which states that “no refunds will be given” in the event the prom limousine rental is terminated due to the consumption of alcohol.

When reserving limousine service, it’s always a good idea to contact at least 2 or more limousine service companies to compare services and rates.  Many limousine companies do not provide company information including rates and company policies on their website.  As a result, many limousine reservations require a phone call to the company for additional assistance.

Most limousine companies offer a wide range of services and operate various types of vehicles.  Before making your limousine reservation, the traveler should be prepared to answer many questions from the limousine company in order to provide an accurate quote for the limousine reservation.

Things to Know Before Reserving a Limo:

Reservation Date & Time: Limousine rates may vary according to the day and time of the reservation.  For example, rates during the week are usually available at a discount compared to weekend rates.

Charter Type: Type of charters include airport transfer, point-to-point, and or hourly charter.  For example, if you require an airport transfer going to or from the airport, the limousine company may charge a fixed rate rather than an hourly rate.

Type of Vehicle: Sedan, SUV, Van, Standard Stretch, Super Stretch, Limo Coach, Limo Bus or Motorcoach.

Number of Hours: How many hours are required.  For example, a stretch limousine require a higher minimum hourly rental than a sedan.

Type of Occasion: Wedding, prom, or night on the town.  For example, prom reservations require a higher minimum hourly rental due to lack of supply of available limousines during prom season.

Number of Passengers: Passenger capacity varies among the different types of vehicles.

Number of Vehicles: Depending on the number of passengers, additional vehicles may be required.

Color of Vehicle: What is your color preference.  Black and white are the most popular colors but other vehicle colors may be available.

Limousines are a popular alternative for transportation to and from the prom.  The state of California has recently enacted strict regulations which may effect certain vehicles operated by companies who provide limousine services for proms.

The California state legislature has approved Assembly Bill 830 (AB 830) to address safety concerns regarding school transportation by charter-party carriers including limousine companies.  AB 830 requires the California limousine company to obtain a special permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles and requires additional training for drivers operating a School Pupil Activity Bus (SPAB).  Limousines are classified as a SPAB vehicle if they provide transportation services to and from schools or school functions and carry large number of passengers.

Not all California limousine companies are authorized to operate a limousine classified as a SPAB.  The seating capacity of the reserved limousine will determine if this additional license is required.  Limousine companies caught operating without a valid SPAB will have their vehicle impounded by the California Highway Patrol.  As a result, passengers will be forced to find alternative transportation.

Bottom line, when booking a prom limousine for a group of people, passengers and/or parents need to verify that the limousine company has a valid SPAB license.