When applying for a Standard National or Standard International Operator Licence in the UK, one key requirement is proving professional competence. This means showing the Traffic Commissioner that your transport operations will be run safely, legally, and efficiently under the oversight of a qualified Transport Manager.
This isn’t about ticking a box. It’s about demonstrating control, compliance, and a solid understanding of what managing a fleet legally involves.
Appointing a Qualified Transport Manager
The most common way to prove competence is by appointing a professionally qualified Transport Manager. This person must hold a valid Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in road haulage (or passenger transport, if relevant). The CPC is issued by an approved awarding body and confirms the person understands transport law, driver hours, maintenance, and safety requirements.
Your Transport Manager must be based in the UK and have a real, day-to-day role in running the transport side of the business. You’ll need to include their name and qualification in your application, and confirm how much time they’ll spend on your operation each week. If you’re using an external Transport Manager, this time must still be sufficient and clearly stated.
Demonstrating Control and Oversight
It’s not enough to simply name a qualified person. You must show that the Transport Manager has “continuous and effective control” over your fleet. This means proving they are actively managing operations, not operating in the background.
You should include a signed statement outlining their duties and responsibilities. This might cover areas like driver scheduling, tachograph monitoring, maintenance planning, and reviewing compliance reports. Their working hours and responsibilities must align with the number of vehicles you operate. For example, one or two vehicles may require 2–4 hours per week, while a larger fleet could need 40 hours or more.
Supporting evidence such as job descriptions, meeting notes, planning logs, or audit reports helps show that your manager is engaged and in control.
Submitting Qualification Documents
You’ll be expected to provide a copy of your Transport Manager’s CPC certificate along with your licence application. If the certificate was issued more than a decade ago, it’s wise to include evidence of recent refresher training or continued professional development to show that the person is up to date with current legislation.
The Traffic Commissioner may also look at their history. If they’ve previously been involved in non-compliant operations or failed audits, this could raise red flags. Honesty and transparency in your application are essential.
Showing That Your Systems Are Fit for Purpose
Competence isn’t just about people. It’s also about the systems you use to stay compliant. The Commissioner will want to see how your business monitors things like vehicle maintenance, driver hours, load safety, and accident recording.
You don’t need a high-tech system, but you do need something reliable. Whether it’s digital or paper-based, you must be able to show schedules for inspections, defect reporting procedures, tachograph analysis, and evidence of regular audits. These systems must be understood and used by your Transport Manager.
Even if you outsource some tasks—like tachograph analysis or maintenance—you remain responsible for oversight. So include evidence that your manager checks third-party work and follows up on issues.
Staying Compliant Over Time
Once your licence is granted, the requirement for professional competence doesn’t go away. Your Transport Manager must stay informed and active. This means keeping up with changes to rules on driver hours, vehicle technology, and road safety.
Regular training is important. A refresher course every 3 to 5 years is a good standard. It also helps to conduct internal audits or get external support to ensure nothing slips.
If your Transport Manager leaves, you must notify the Traffic Commissioner. You may be granted a short “Period of Grace” to find a replacement, but you must act quickly. During that time, your business must still meet all compliance duties.
How Blue Flag Transport Consulting Helps
Blue Flag works with transport operators to make sure everything is in place before an application is submitted. They help you identify a qualified Transport Manager, assess whether your compliance systems are strong enough, and prepare the right documentation. They also assist with audits, refresher training, and support if you’re applying for a new licence or managing a public inquiry.
If you’re unsure whether your business meets the competence requirement, it’s better to get support early. Mistakes at this stage can delay or block your application—and once your licence is granted, failure to maintain compliance can lead to suspensions or revocation.
Get in touch with Blue Flag Transport Consulting for help setting up or reviewing your professional competence arrangements. They know what the Traffic Commissioner expects and will help you present a strong case.
