Operator Granted Licence Despite Conviction for Operating Without a Licence

A company specialising in the repair and restoration of cars had applied for a Standard National Operator’s Licence. At a Public Inquiry, where the applicant was represented by Martin Smith, the Traffic Commissioner raised the issue of repute – The company had been transporting cars without an operator’s licence and after the requirement to have an Operator’s Licence had been brought to the company’s attention by DVSA, the company’s delivery vehicle was stopped for a second time whilst carrying a car. The company was prosecuted for operating without a licence in respect of its use of the vehicle on this occasion.

After hearing evidence and submissions on the company’s behalf, the Traffic Commissioner granted a Standard National Operator’s Licence and gave the company a warning. The Traffic Commissioner made it plain that it was only the passage of time between the criminal offence and the steps taken by the operator, under the guidance of SBC,  to educate themselves and get their house in order that allowed the grant of the licence.