Financial standing proves you can run vehicles safely and pay essential costs.
The Traffic Commissioner checks this before approval and during licence life.
You must meet these rules at all times.
2026 Minimum Financial Levels
You must show access to funds in a business account.
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 every day.
Where the Money Must Sit
Use a business bank account.
Avoid personal accounts.
Statements must show stable balances.
Accepted Evidence
You must provide:
• Recent bank statements
• Overdraft facility letters
• Credit facility confirmations
• Company accounts where available
All evidence must show your business name.
When the Traffic Commissioner Checks
Checks happen:
• At application
• At renewal
• During audits
• After complaints
• At Public Inquiry
Falling below the limit triggers action.
Common Reasons Operators Fail
• Using personal accounts
• Sudden short-term deposits
• No buffer above minimum
• Missing bank pages
• Name mismatches
These cause refusal or licence action.
How to Stay Compliant
• Keep a buffer above the limit
• Review balances weekly
• Store clean statements
• Avoid large unexplained withdrawals
• Prepare cash flow forecasts
Strong control protects your licence.
Get Expert Support
You can reduce risk with specialist help.
Support for your operator licence application is available from
Blue Flag Transport Consulting
Professional transport consulting protects your licence and avoids delays.
Learn more at
https://bftconsulting.co.uk/
