During the preceding 90 days to take passengers to that specific trip you have to have at least 3 T/O and Landings in that specific type you are flying - these flights have to be undertaken alone. And bet, they do ramp check you on that one!
No they don't! They have to have been carried out as PIC (or Co-Pilot) - Either Solo or carrying Pax, it doesn't matter.
It is only if that requirement is not met that no Pax can be carried