The Operator's Guide to Compliance

Your Operator's Licence is the single most valuable asset to your transport business. I provide the expert guidance needed to obtain, maintain, and protect it.

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What is an Operator's Licence?

In Great Britain, you cannot operate a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) over 3.5 tonnes for business purposes without the authority of an Operator's Licence, issued by a Traffic Commissioner. This licence is not just a permit; it is a formal contract binding you to a strict set of legal undertakings designed to ensure road safety and fair competition.

Failing to uphold these standards doesn't just risk fines—it risks regulatory action against your licence, which could lead to suspension, curtailment, or even revocation, effectively ending your business. I provide the clarity and expertise to navigate these challenges confidently.

Types of Operator Licence

The type of licence you need depends entirely on the nature of your work.

Restricted Licence

For businesses that carry their own goods or materials in connection with their trade. You cannot carry goods for other people for hire or reward.

Standard National Licence

Allows you to carry your own goods and also carry goods for others for hire or reward, but only within the United Kingdom.

Standard International Licence

The highest level of licence, allowing you to carry your own goods and goods for others for hire or reward, both in the UK and on international journeys.

The Licence Undertakings: Your Core Promises

When you sign your licence application, you are making a binding promise to the Traffic Commissioner to meet a series of undertakings. These are not optional. They are the bedrock of your compliance.

  • Rules on drivers' hours and tachographs are observed, proper records are kept, and systems are in place to monitor and manage driver compliance.
  • Vehicles and trailers are not overloaded and are loaded safely to ensure stability and public safety.
  • Vehicles operate within speed limits, and systems are in place to manage driver behaviour.
  • Vehicles and trailers are kept in a fit and serviceable condition at all times, supported by a robust system of daily walkaround checks, regular preventative maintenance inspections, and prompt defect rectification.
  • All drivers have the appropriate licence for the vehicle they are driving, and regular checks are conducted to ensure validity.
  • You will report any matter that could affect your good repute or financial standing to the Traffic Commissioner within 28 days. This includes all relevant convictions and financial issues.

Failure to meet any one of these undertakings can be grounds for regulatory action. I help you build the robust systems needed to ensure these promises are kept every single day.

The Pillars of a Compliant Operation

To gain and keep a licence, an operator must satisfy the Traffic Commissioner in three key areas.

Good Repute

You and your key staff must be deemed of 'good repute'. This can be affected by previous convictions, conduct, and a history of non-compliance. It is an ongoing requirement that can be lost at any time.

Financial Standing

You must prove you have sufficient financial resources to maintain your vehicles and run your business properly. The required amounts are set by law and must be available throughout the life of the licence.

Professional Competence

For Standard National or International licences, you must have a nominated Transport Manager (TM) who holds a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). They must exercise 'continuous and effective' management of the transport operation.

Understanding Your OCRS

The Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS) is a system used by the DVSA to decide which vehicles to inspect. It is your compliance footprint. A low score (Green) means you are less likely to be stopped, while a high score (Red) makes you a primary target for roadside encounters and site visits.

Points are generated from defects found at the roadside or at annual test. The more severe the defect, the more points are allocated. Your score is based on a rolling three-year period, meaning past failures can haunt you for a long time.

Managing your OCRS is not a dark art; it is the direct result of your maintenance standards and driver discipline. A consistently low score saves you time, money, and protects your reputation.

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How I Ensure Your Compliance

I offer a complete lifecycle of services to ensure your licence remains secure and your OCRS stays low.

Applications & Variations

I manage the entire application process, ensuring every detail is correct to prevent delays. Whether you're applying for your first licence or seeking a major variation, I ensure your submission is robust and professional.

Compliance Systems Audits

I conduct thorough, independent audits of your existing systems. I identify potential weaknesses in your maintenance planning, driver management, and record-keeping before they attract the attention of the DVSA.

Public Inquiry Support

Facing a call to a Public Inquiry can be daunting. I provide expert, practitioner-led guidance and support, helping you prepare your case and demonstrate your commitment to compliance when it matters most.