The rules for vans over 2.5 tonnes changed.
Many operators now need an Operator Licence for work that used to run without one.
You must check your fleet now.
Which Vans Are Affected
You need a licence if your van:
• Has a gross weight over 2.5 tonnes
• Runs international hire or reward work
• Operates in the UK and EU
• Moves goods for customers
There we willn show to long wheelbase vans and box vans.
When a Licence Is Required
You now need a licence if you:
• Carry goods for customers
• Charge for transport
• Run cross-border work
• Subcontract transport jobs
Domestic own-goods work under 3.5 tonnes does not need a licence.
Which Licence You Need
Restricted licence
Use this for your own goods only.
Standard national licence
Use this for UK hire or reward.
Standard international licence
Use this for UK and EU work.
Financial Standing Rules
You must show access to funds.
Standard licence
• First vehicle £9,100
• Each extra vehicle £5,100
Restricted licence
• First vehicle £3,500
• Each extra vehicle £1,950
Funds must stay available.
New Compliance Duties
You must now run full compliance systems.
Set up:
• Safety inspections
• Defect reporting
• Brake testing
• Tachograph downloads
• Driver training
• Record storage
Weak systems risk enforcement.
Penalties for Ignoring the Rules
• Fixed penalties
• Prohibitions
• Licence refusal
• Public Inquiry
• Vehicle seizure
Operating without a licence is serious.
Get Expert Support
You can get help with your operator licence application from
Blue Flag Transport Consulting
Professional transport consulting helps van operators meet the new rules.
Learn more at
https://bftconsulting.co.uk/
What to Do Now
• Check vehicle weights
• Review your work type
• Choose the right licence
• Set up compliance systems
• Prepare your application
