An image processing apparatus stops the transport of a sheet when an access cover is opened to prevent the damage of the sheet, without additionally providing a sensor and has a transport member for transporting a sheet through an image processing unit; a driving mechanism for transmitting a driving force to the transport member; an access cover for opening a portion of a sheet transport path; and a driving switching unit for transmitting the driving force of the driving mechanism or cuts off the transmission of the driving force in operative association with the opening or closing of the access cover. The driving switching unit cuts off the transmission of the driving force to the transport member when the access cover is opened.