Being called to a public inquiry can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what it involves. For many transport operators in the UK, it’s a serious moment that could affect the future of your business. Whether you’re facing issues with your operator licence or concerned about compliance, this guide will help you understand what to expect at a public inquiry—and how to prepare for it.
What Is a Public Inquiry?
A public inquiry is a formal hearing held by the Traffic Commissioner to investigate serious concerns about your transport operation. It’s not a criminal court, but it can still result in serious consequences such as licence revocation, suspension, or curtailment.
Reasons You Might Be Called to a Public Inquiry:
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Poor maintenance of vehicles
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Driver hours infringements
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Lack of financial standing
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Failure to appoint a competent transport manager
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False statements in your operator licence application
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Allegations of illegal or unsafe activity
Public inquiries aim to determine whether you remain fit to hold a vehicle operators licence.
Who Attends a Public Inquiry?
In most cases, the following parties will be present:
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The Traffic Commissioner – who leads the hearing
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You or your legal representative – as the licence holder
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Your transport manager (if applicable)
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DVSA officers or other officials – presenting evidence
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Witnesses – if required
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Public or press – these hearings are open unless closed for specific reasons
Having proper representation, such as a transport consulting expert, can help ensure your case is presented clearly and professionally.
What Happens Before the Inquiry?
Before the hearing date, you will receive a letter from the Traffic Commissioner’s office. This will outline the concerns raised and confirm the time and location of your public inquiry.
In preparation, you should:
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Review the evidence carefully
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Seek professional advice or representation
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Prepare all relevant documents (inspection records, driver logs, maintenance reports)
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Review your vehicle operators licence obligations
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Consider statements from your transport manager or other staff
Failing to prepare could hurt your case. A well-organised response shows the Commissioner that you take your responsibilities seriously.
What Happens During the Inquiry?
The public inquiry is usually held in a tribunal room. It’s formal but not like a criminal court. However, the decisions made can still have lasting effects.
What to expect in the room:
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You’ll be invited to speak about your operations.
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The Traffic Commissioner will ask questions based on the evidence provided.
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The DVSA may present their findings.
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You may be questioned about specific incidents or ongoing practices.
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Your transport manager may be asked to explain their role and actions.
The Traffic Commissioner is not out to punish you—they want to understand if you’re capable of running a compliant and safe business.
Possible Outcomes of a Public Inquiry
After hearing all the evidence, the Traffic Commissioner will decide on the outcome. This may be given on the day or sent in writing afterwards.
Outcomes can include:
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No action – if you’re found to be compliant
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Formal warning – a note placed on your record
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Licence curtailment – reducing the number of vehicles you can operate
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Licence suspension – halting operations for a set period
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Licence revocation – removing your ability to operate entirely
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Disqualification – banning you or your transport manager from holding a licence in future
In some cases, you may be allowed to continue operating with conditions attached, such as mandatory training or audits.
How to Avoid a Public Inquiry
Public inquiries are often triggered by repeated non-compliance or lack of action after warnings. To reduce your chances of being called to one, it’s essential to:
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Keep all maintenance records up to date
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Monitor driver hours closely
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Carry out regular audits
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Train your staff and drivers properly
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Appoint and support a qualified transport manager
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Be honest and thorough during your operator licence application or renewal
Even holders of a restricted operators licence must comply with the same high standards.
How a Transport Consultant Can Help
Professional transport consulting services like Blue Flag Transport Consulting provide expert guidance before, during, and after a public inquiry. We help operators:
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Review and organise compliance records
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Prepare for questioning
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Create improvement plans
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Represent you during the hearing
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Apply for reinstatement or restoration of licences if revoked
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Manage your ongoing obligations under the operators licence UK system
If you’re unsure whether your systems meet the standards, early intervention is often more effective—and less stressful—than waiting until you’re already under investigation.
Costs and Consequences of Inaction
Failing to act can cost more than just your licence. Think about:
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Business downtime
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Lost contracts and income
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Damage to your reputation
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The cost of operators licence cost increases when having to reapply after revocation
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The long-term impact on your ability to run a transport business
Compare that to the cost of hiring a professional to help with your compliance—prevention is always cheaper than repair.
Summary: What You Need to Know
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A public inquiry is a formal hearing led by the Traffic Commissioner.
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It investigates serious breaches or concerns linked to your operator licence.
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Preparation and representation are key to getting a fair outcome.
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Outcomes range from no action to full licence revocation.
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Using expert help, like transport consulting, can greatly improve your chances.
Don’t Risk It—Get Professional Support
If you’ve received notice of a public inquiry or are worried one might be on the horizon, don’t wait. The earlier you get help, the more options you have.
Contact Blue Flag Transport Consulting today. We’ll help you prepare your documents, represent you professionally, and guide you through every step of the process.
Protect your licence. Protect your business. Reach out now at www.bftconsulting.co.uk.