Applying for an Operator’s Licence
Applying for a new operator’s licence can be a frustrating process. Applicants often find they have to deal with many requests for further information from the Central Licensing Office. A badly handled application can even result in a Public Inquiry hearing with the Traffic Commissioner.
At Rotheras, our transport solicitors are experts in all operator licensing matters. We can manage the application process and respond to any requests for information on your behalf.
We understand that some applications are time sensitive. Our team can help you to apply for an urgent interim licence so you can start operating as soon as possible.
Common Application Problems
There are many reasons an application for a new licence can run into difficulties. These include:
Financial standing problems
You will have to show that you have enough money available to keep your vehicles in good repair. We can advise on the forms of financial evidence that will be accepted.
Failing to declare other licences or previous convictions
The Central Licensing Office will expect you to declare all operator licences you or anyone named in the application has been involved in, along with any relevant previous convictions. If you have failed to declare, they will want to know why.
“Fronting” concerns
The Traffic Commissioner may want assurances that any new application is not a “front” for a disqualified director. Concerns of this kind can often arise from a simple misunderstanding but, unless handled carefully, can lead to a Public Inquiry.
“Main occupation” concerns
If you are applying for a restricted PSV licence, you will have to show that you meet the “main occupation” requirement. We can advise you on this complex area of law and can help you to show that you meet this requirement.
Operating centre “environmental” objections
If you want to apply to use a site to operate goods vehicles you will need to advertise this in a local newspaper. We can help you to respond to any complaints from either the local authority or local residents.
What Type of Operator’s Licence do I need?
If can sometimes be difficult to know what type of operator’s licence you need, or whether you in fact need one at all.
Our transport solicitors can advise on whether you fall within an exemption from operator licensing, and if not, what type of licence you should apply for.
There are three types of Operator’s Licence:
- Restricted Operator’s Licence
- Standard Operator’s Licence
- Standing International Operator’s Licence
The application requirements vary depending on whether you are applying for a goods vehicle or PSV licence, and the type of goods or passengers you are carrying.
Public Inquiry Hearings
If the Traffic Commissioner has concerns with your application, you may be called to a Public Inquiry hearing. A Public Inquiry is a type of public regulatory court hearing at which you will be questioned and your application scrutinized. Our advocates are extremely experienced in representing applicants at Public Inquiry hearings.
Public Inquiries – further information
For more information on applying for an Operator’s Licence contact our Road Transport Law Team on 0115 910 6210 or email transportlaw@rotheras.co.uk.
Send us a message

“Our experienced and specialist team represent clients nationally on a day-to-day basis”
Anton Balkitis
Head of Transport Law
Posted 01/27/2020
This was my first experience using a solicitor, something I felt quite daunted about. Rotheras (Greg and Petra) put me at ease and were very helpful.
Mollie Fish
Posted 01/27/2020
Last year I experienced a car accident, as a front seat passenger. I put forward a personal injury claim with Rotheras. From start to finish, my claim has been dealt with efficiently and professionally, and I have always felt my best interests were considered. All communications were made via letter or email to inform me of all further updates. My claim has now come to an end and I am very happy with the overall outcome. I would recommend Rotheras for their service.
Samya Green
Posted 02/04/2020
We cannot recommend Chris Powell of Rotheras more highly. Mr Powell demonstrated the upmost professionalism with a high level of knowledge of the area for which he was representing us. Anyone needing representation/advice regarding the area of haulage will find that Chris Powell and Rotheras are the best choice.
Karen Walker
Posted 02/04/2020
Claim dealt with efficiently and to a satisfactory conclusion. Wayne Vickers visited me at home initially and explained everything thoroughly. Professional service throughout. Recommended
Clare Stevens

Anton Balkitis
a.balkitis@rotheras.co.uk
Anton Balkitis leads the Transport Law team and is a nationally recognised Transport and Motoring Law specialist at Nottingham-based law firm Rotheras Solicitors.

Olivia Maginn
o.maginn@rotheras.co.uk
Olivia Maginn is a transport and motoring law specialist at Nottingham based law firm Rotheras Solicitors.

Chris Powell
c.powell@rotheras.co.uk
Chris Powell is an associate solicitor at Rotheras, specialising in road transport law and motorist defence. He advises and represents haulage and PSV operator licence holders and drivers on all road transport regulatory matters.

Hardeep Chumber
h.chumber@rotheras.co.uk
Hardeep Chumber is a paralegal in Rotheras Motoring and Transport department and is based at our Lace Market office.

Elizabeth Shaw
e.shaw@rotheras.co.uk
Elizabeth Shaw is a paralegal in Rotheras Transport department and is based at our Lace Market office.

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