My passenger air bag light stays on how do i get it to go off, and how do i know if there is an air bag on passengers side of my beetle 2000

You will need VAGCOM diagnostic software and a interface lead to connect to the ECU via the OBD2 compliant socket.

The software can be found as freeware but doesn't have all the features of the fully licenced version which can be purchased from here http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/index.html

You can also buy the interface lead from www.ebay.co.uk just search VAGCOM.

VAGCOM can diagnose faults as well as reset them such as your airbag fault. If the fault is genuine then it will need looking at by a specialist.

If you don't want to go down the DIY route then VW dealers will be more than happy to help but will charge loads! Try a non dealer auto diagnostic specailist out of the Yellow pages as they will be a whole load cheaper.

Does your car have a passenger airbag?

I looked on Parkers Website (see link below) and it states driver and passenger airbags are fitted as standard to VW Beetle's.
http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/volkswagen/beetle-hatchback-1999.aspx?page=7

Hope this helps and good luck!