Running a transport operation in the UK comes with serious responsibilities. The last thing any operator wants is to be summoned to a Public Inquiry by the Traffic Commissioner. These hearings can put your vehicle operator’s licence at risk—and potentially bring your business to a standstill.
The good news? Most Public Inquiries are triggered by avoidable mistakes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common pitfalls and how to stay clear of them. Whether you’re new to transport or a seasoned operator, understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.
What Is a Public Inquiry?
A Public Inquiry is a formal legal hearing carried out by the Traffic Commissioner. It’s designed to review whether an operator has met the conditions and undertakings tied to their operator licence.
You may be called in if:
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The DVSA identifies issues during an inspection
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You breach licence conditions or fail to comply with regulations
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There are complaints or concerns about your operation’s safety, finances, or integrity
The consequences can include:
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Formal warnings
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Licence curtailment (fewer vehicles allowed)
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Suspension
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Revocation of your vehicle operators licence
Why Most Public Inquiries Happen
Let’s explore the key mistakes operators make that result in Public Inquiries—and how to avoid each one.
1. Poor Vehicle Maintenance and Safety Standards
Nothing raises red flags faster than unsafe vehicles. The Traffic Commissioner expects every operator to maintain a robust vehicle inspection and repair system.
Common mistakes:
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Skipping scheduled maintenance
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Failing MOTs repeatedly
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Missing defect reports
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No proof of repairs after faults are found
How to avoid it:
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Schedule regular safety inspections
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Use a written defect reporting process
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Keep detailed maintenance records for every vehicle
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Act fast on repairs and document the work
2. Failing to Manage Drivers’ Hours and Tachographs
Driver fatigue causes accidents. That’s why strict rules govern how long drivers can work and when they must rest.
Mistakes operators make:
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Not downloading or analysing tachograph data
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Ignoring rest break rules
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Poor record-keeping or tampering with data
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Lack of training on drivers’ hours rules
Solutions:
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Train drivers on hours and tachograph use
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Use software to monitor compliance
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Keep a close eye on infringements
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Take corrective action early
3. Weak Financial Standing
To keep your operator licence, you must prove you have enough money to maintain your vehicles and run your business safely.
Financial standing figures for 2025:
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£9,100 for the first vehicle
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£5,000 for each additional vehicle
Mistakes that lead to Public Inquiry:
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Bank balance dropping below required levels
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Not telling the Traffic Commissioner about financial changes
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Failing to provide evidence of financial standing during a review
What to do:
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Monitor your business’s finances regularly
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Keep bank statements and supporting documents handy
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Notify the Traffic Commissioner if finances change
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Use transport consulting services to prepare for financial checks
4. Outdated or Incomplete Record-Keeping
Good admin might not be glamorous, but it’s vital. Missing records make it look like you’re not in control of your operation.
Key areas to track:
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Vehicle inspection and service logs
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Driver licence and CPC checks
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Evidence of compliance with operator licence conditions
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Driver training records
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Operator Licence renewal and application paperwork
If you can’t produce the paperwork, the assumption will be that you’re not compliant—even if your operation is safe.
5. Not Updating Licence Details
Your vehicle operator’s licence must reflect the reality of your business.
Things that must be updated:
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Business name or structure
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Directors or partners involved
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Operating centres
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Number of vehicles in use
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Details of your transport manager
Not updating your licence could be viewed as misleading or dishonest. It’s one of the most overlooked yet serious mistakes operators make.
6. Ignoring Early Warning Signs
Many operators are caught off guard by Public Inquiries, but there are usually warning signs first.
Look out for:
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DVSA inspections with poor outcomes
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Advisory letters or roadside prohibitions
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Repeated faults picked up at MOT
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Drivers raising concerns internally
Don’t ignore these signs. Instead:
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Act immediately on any issues raised
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Keep records of how you fixed the problems
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Show that you’re proactive and responsible
7. Unfit or Absent Transport Managers
Your transport manager must have continuous and effective control over your fleet. If they’re only on paper—or too busy with other businesses—you could be called to Inquiry.
Red flags include:
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Transport manager rarely visits the operating centre
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No evidence they monitor compliance
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No recent communication or reporting
How to avoid it:
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Have regular check-ins with your transport manager
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Keep logs of their involvement
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If necessary, consider hiring a new transport manager who meets the requirements
8. Misuse of a Restricted Operator’s Licence
A restricted operator’s licence is only for those transporting their own goods. It does not allow carrying goods for hire or reward.
Missteps that trigger investigations:
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Carrying goods for another business
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Exceeding vehicle limits
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Running unauthorised commercial operations
Always be clear on what your licence permits—and if your business changes, update your licence accordingly.
9. Failing to Cooperate with the Authorities
Ignoring communication from the DVSA or Traffic Commissioner is a fast way to get into trouble.
Avoid this by:
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Responding to all official letters and emails
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Attending any requested interviews or hearings
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Providing honest, full answers to questions
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Keeping deadlines for submitting evidence or documents
Silence or delay often looks like guilt—or at least incompetence.
10. Cutting Corners Due to Cost Pressures
Transport businesses operate on tight margins. But cutting corners to save money can cost you your licence in the long run.
Examples include:
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Using unqualified mechanics
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Forgoing regular inspections
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Running overloaded vehicles
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Failing to train new drivers properly
Investing in compliance now protects your future and saves money in the long term.
How to Stay Ahead of Problems
Staying compliant doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to keep things in check:
Key tips:
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Schedule regular compliance audits
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Use checklists and reminders for key deadlines
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Train your team on licence requirements
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Use a compliance wallchart in your office
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Work with a transport consulting specialist for peace of mind
Call to Action
If you’re concerned about compliance or want to avoid a costly mistake, speak to Blue Flag Transport Consulting.
We’ll help you with:
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Your operator licence application or renewal
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Managing a restricted operator’s licence correctly
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Understanding the operators licence cost and financial requirements
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Preparing for DVSA inspections or Traffic Commissioner reviews
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Avoiding Public Inquiry through expert support and planning
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Blue Flag Transport Consulting today and stay on the road with confidence.