If you’re a transport operator in the UK — whether you’re running a single vehicle under a restricted operators licence or managing a large national fleet — understanding the purpose and process of a Public Inquiry is crucial. While the term might sound formal or even intimidating, it’s simply a legal process designed to ensure road safety, fair practice, and proper use of the vehicle operators licence system.
This guide will help you understand what a Public Inquiry is, why it might happen, when it’s likely to be triggered, and what you can do if you’re called to attend one.
What Is a Public Inquiry?
A Public Inquiry is a formal hearing held by a Traffic Commissioner. It’s not a criminal court, but it’s legally binding and can lead to serious consequences, including:
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The suspension or revocation of your operator licence
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A reduction in the number of vehicles you’re allowed to run
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Personal disqualification from operating commercial vehicles
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Rejection of a renewal or reinstatement application
The goal of a Public Inquiry is to assess whether an operator is fit to continue holding a licence and whether they’ve been following the rules outlined in the Goods Vehicle Operator Licensing Guide.
Who Can Be Called to a Public Inquiry?
You may be called to a Public Inquiry if you are:
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The holder of a restricted, standard national, or standard international operator licence
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A named Transport Manager
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A new applicant submitting an operator licence application
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Seeking a PCO operator licence application for passenger services
In all cases, the inquiry will assess whether you, your company, or your appointed managers are compliant and trustworthy.
Common Reasons for a Public Inquiry
Public Inquiries don’t happen randomly. They are typically triggered by specific concerns or failures. These may include:
1. Poor Compliance History
Operators with repeated compliance issues are likely to be investigated. This includes:
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Missed safety inspections
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Poor vehicle maintenance records
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Unchecked driver hours
2. DVSA Report Following a Site Visit
A negative DVSA report following an Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS) check or roadside inspection can prompt an inquiry. Inspectors may find:
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Tachograph infringements
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Overloaded vehicles
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Unqualified drivers
3. Failure to Meet Financial Standing Requirements
All operators must meet minimum financial thresholds to show they can safely run their fleet. Falling short — especially during renewal or reinstatement — can result in a formal hearing.
4. False or Misleading Information
Submitting incorrect or incomplete details on an operator licence application or providing false maintenance records can raise serious red flags.
5. Changes to Your Business
The Traffic Commissioner might call you to a hearing if you:
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Change operating centres
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Significantly increase your authorised fleet
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Remove or replace a Transport Manager
These changes can affect your ability to stay compliant.
What Happens During a Public Inquiry?
Notification
You’ll receive a formal notice from the Office of the Traffic Commissioner. This will explain:
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The date and time of the inquiry
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Where it will be held (typically a local Traffic Commissioner’s office)
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The reasons for the inquiry
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Any evidence you need to submit beforehand
Preparing Your Case
This is your opportunity to show:
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You’re taking compliance seriously
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You’ve addressed past failings
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You have systems in place to avoid future problems
At this stage, many operators seek help from transport consulting specialists like Blue Flag Transport Consulting, who can guide you through what to present and how.
The Hearing Itself
The hearing is typically chaired by the Traffic Commissioner, with legal advisors present. You may bring a solicitor or consultant to represent you.
You’ll be asked to explain:
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Your systems for managing vehicle safety
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Driver management processes
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How you’re meeting the conditions of your vehicle operators licence
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What actions you’ve taken since the issues arose
The inquiry can last a few hours or a full day, depending on the complexity of the case.
Possible Outcomes of a Public Inquiry
The outcome depends entirely on the evidence you provide and your attitude toward compliance. The Traffic Commissioner may:
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Take no action (if satisfied with your response)
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Issue a formal warning
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Reduce the number of vehicles on your licence
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Suspend or revoke your operator licence
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Disqualify you or your Transport Manager
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Refuse an operator licence application or reinstatement
How to Avoid a Public Inquiry
Avoiding a Public Inquiry comes down to running a compliant and transparent operation. Here are some practical tips:
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Keep up-to-date maintenance records
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Schedule regular inspections and stick to them
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Ensure all drivers are properly trained and qualified
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Monitor working hours and tachograph data consistently
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Appoint a competent, qualified Transport Manager
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Seek help from professionals before small issues become big problems
Remember, prevention is easier and cheaper than repair.
What to Do If You’re Called to an Inquiry
Being called to a Public Inquiry isn’t the end of the road. Many operators come out stronger and better prepared. Here’s how to respond effectively:
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Don’t panic – It’s a legal process, not an automatic punishment.
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Respond quickly – Confirm your attendance and start preparing immediately.
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Get expert help – A transport consultant can support you with documentation, preparation, and representation.
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Be honest and transparent – Admit your mistakes and show how you’ve corrected them.
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Demonstrate commitment to compliance – Update systems, train staff, and show you’re serious.
How Transport Consulting Can Help
If you’re unsure about how to prepare for an inquiry or want to avoid one in future, expert help is available. Blue Flag Transport Consulting provides:
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Pre-audit assessments
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Assistance with DVSA inspections
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Representation at Public Inquiries
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Advice for new operator licence applications
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Support with reinstatement or renewal of licences
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Help with PCO operator licence applications
Working with professionals can help you avoid costly mistakes, maintain your licence, and grow your business with confidence.
Don’t Let a Public Inquiry Derail Your Business
Public Inquiries are serious, but they’re also a chance to put things right. With the right preparation and guidance, many operators come through the process better organised and fully compliant.
Whether you’re applying for a new licence, managing a renewal, or facing compliance challenges, getting the right support makes all the difference.
📞 Contact Blue Flag Transport Consulting Today
Need help with a Public Inquiry, compliance advice, or your operator licence application?
✅ We help with vehicle operators licences
✅ Support for restricted operator licences, renewals, and restorations
✅ Guidance through DVSA issues and compliance challenges
✅ Help with PCO operator licence applications
Reach out to Blue Flag Transport Consulting today and get expert support tailored to the UK’s trucking and transportation industry.