Help Applying for, or Varying an Operator’s Licence

 Help with Applying for a New Operator’s Licence

With a few exceptions, anybody wanting to operate HGVs or PSVs in the UK will need an Operator’s Licence. Applying for a new licence is not just a rubber-stamp exercise. As a potential operator you will need to prepare a detailed application setting out the sort of operation you are hoping to run.

The following is just a selection of the information you will need to provide:

• The details of the person or business who will hold the licence
• The address where all the documents will be kept
• The details of all the director (if it is a company)
• The location of the operating centre
• Who will be carrying out your maintenance and how often
• Your previous financial and licensing history
• Whether anyone named in the application have any relevant criminal convictions

Depending on the type of licence you are applying for, you may also need to:

• Complete a separate application to add a Transport Manager
• Apply for an interim licence
• Post a public notice in a local newspaper advertising your operating centre and inviting challenges to it

You will also need to provide financial evidence to show you have the necessary funds to operate and maintain the vehicles.

In short it can be a complex process and getting it accurate is essential. Remember, it is a criminal offence to give false information in your application.

Sound Complicated? – Let our Transport Lawyers do the Work

The application process can be complicated. If the Traffic Commissioner has concerns about your application he or she may decide to hold a Public Inquiry to consider whether it should be granted. You would be expected to attend and give evidence.

For a single fixed fee, our transport lawyers can:

• Take full instructions from you
• Tell you exactly what documents you need to provide
• Advise on any changes you may need to make to the application to stand the best chance of having it granted
• Prepare the application for you based on your instructions
• Liaise with the Office of the Traffic Commissioner throughout on your behalf

Help with Applying for a Variation to your Operators Licence

If you already hold an operator’s licence but are looking to vary it, our team can help. Some variations require a new application form to be submitted (e.g. a change to your operating centre).

A variation request is an opportunity for the Office of the Traffic Commissioner to scrutinise your licence as a whole. If they have any concerns with your variation or operation you can expect to be called to a Public Inquiry.

For more information, speak to one of our transport lawyers today for a free initial consultation.