What Happens After You Apply for an Operator Licence?
Submitting an Operator Licence application can feel like the end of the process.
In reality, it is the point where the Traffic Commissioner starts considering whether your proposed transport operation meets the requirements for a licence.
So what happens next?
If you've submitted a goods vehicle Operator Licence application in Great Britain, here's what you can expect.
Your application is reviewed
Once your application has been submitted, the Office of the Traffic Commissioner will review it.
They may contact you if they need further information or supporting evidence.
This is one reason it is important to make sure the application is complete and accurate before submitting it.
GOV.UK currently states that applicants will usually receive a decision within seven weeks, although it can take longer if the correct supporting documents haven't been provided.
If you're still preparing your application, our guide [How to Apply for an Operator Licence in the UK] and [What does a Haulage Operator actually need] explains the main stages involved.
Your application becomes public
Operator Licence applications are made public.
Details are published through the Traffic Commissioner's Applications and Decisions process, which allows certain organisations to raise objections.
For example, objections can relate to matters such as:
The suitability of the proposed operating centre
Financial arrangements
Professional competence
The operator's fitness or reputation
Vehicle maintenance arrangements
Drivers' hours arrangements
This doesn't mean that every application will receive an objection.
However, it is an important part of the Operator Licence process and is one reason why your application needs to accurately reflect how you intend to operate.
Your operating centre matters
If your application involves a new operating centre, the suitability of the site can be an important consideration.
The Traffic Commissioner can consider issues including the size of the site, access, parking and environmental impact.
If you're unsure about your proposed operating centre, it's worth addressing potential problems before submitting the application rather than waiting for an objection.
You may be asked for more information
Not every application progresses without questions.
The Office of the Traffic Commissioner may ask for additional information or evidence if something needs clarification.
For example, there may be questions about:
Financial standing
The proposed operating centre
Maintenance arrangements
The Transport Manager
Previous convictions or regulatory history
The proposed operation
If the Traffic Commissioner has concerns that cannot be resolved through correspondence, you could be invited to a Public Inquiry to help the Traffic Commissioner make a decision.
This is another reason not to treat the application form as the only important part of the process.
The information behind the application needs to stand up to scrutiny too.
Can you start operating while you wait?
No — not simply because you've submitted an application.
It is illegal to operate a vehicle before the Operator Licence has been issued.
However, a goods vehicle operator applying for a full licence can also request an interim licence if they need to operate while the application is being considered.
An interim licence is not automatic. The Traffic Commissioner will only consider granting one once a complete application has been submitted.
If you need to start operating urgently, this is something that should be considered as part of the application process rather than after you've already submitted it.
What happens if your application is approved?
If your application is approved, you'll receive your Operator Licence and can legally operate your vehicles.
The licence will set out the authority you've been granted and any relevant conditions or undertakings.
But getting the licence isn't the end of your compliance responsibilities.
Once you're operating, you need to continue meeting the requirements of the Operator Licence.
That includes things such as:
Maintaining your vehicles
Ensuring drivers have the correct licence and training
Complying with drivers' hours requirements
Keeping appropriate records
Complying with the licence conditions and undertakings
Telling the Office of the Traffic Commissioner when relevant changes need to be made
GOV.UK describes the ongoing responsibilities of an operator after a licence has been granted.
This is why it's worth having your compliance systems in place before the licence is granted.
What if the application is refused?
If your application is refused, you have a right to appeal.
GOV.UK currently states that you have one month to apply for permission to appeal a refusal.
However, the better approach is to make sure potential problems are identified and dealt with during the application process wherever possible.
Applying for an Operator Licence?
Getting the application right first time can save time and avoid unnecessary complications.
At Road Haulage Compliance, we can help operators with Operator Licence applications and variations, prices starting from £250, including reviewing the proposed operation and helping make sure the application is properly prepared before submission.
If you're starting a haulage business, adding vehicles or changing the way your business operates, get in touch to discuss your requirements.
Road Haulage Compliance — keeping you compliant.
We offer Transport Compliance Audits starting at £695
Comments