Archive

1. How long does an operator licence application take to be granted?

   15th September 2020 9:15 am Comments Off on How long does an operator licence application take to be granted?

   Historically and in our experience, an operator licence application can take between 9-12 weeks to be granted. However in recent times, we have been able to help businesses receive their operator licence within 4-5 weeks which demonstrates the value of involving specialist consultants like GRT.

   The time it takes for your licence to be granted depends greatly on the information disclosed at the point of application. Many operators submit incomplete or inaccurate applications which take time to be processed and then have to be sent back out to be recompleted. Failure to disclose previous history in the licencing system or unspent convictions for example, can result in your application being referred to the Traffic Commissioner who may decide a Public Inquiry is required. In some extreme cases, we’ve seen applications take up to 1 year to be granted which has an obvious debilitating effect on the business.

   If you need to start operating sooner, you can request interim authorisation – contact us for more information.

2. How many hours do I need to contribute as a CPC holder to a Standard-type licence?

   9:10 am Comments Off on How many hours do I need to contribute as a CPC holder to a Standard-type licence?

   The Senior Traffic Commissioner approved “guideline” hours that transport managers must spend on any specified licence – the table can be found on page 19 here. Please note that these aren’t suggested hours – if you fail to allocate and evidence the minimum number of hours when applying, you will likely be refused as CPC holder for the licence.

3. Do I need a transport manager?

   9:09 am Comments Off on Do I need a transport manager?

   Transport managers (or CPC holders as they are also known) are required for Standard-type licences. Restricted licences do not require a transport manager to be listed on the application but a ‘responsible person’ should still be nominated by the licence holder to assume the responsibilities of ensuring compliance with all latest legislation.

4. Will I get an operator licence with a criminal record?

   9:07 am Comments Off on Will I get an operator licence with a criminal record?

   Notifiable convictions are specified offences that the Traffic Commissioner will take into account when deciding whether you are a fit and proper person to be holding an operator licence. A list of all relevant convictions that should be declared can be found here on page 28-29. If you have a notifiable conviction, the Traffic Commissioner may request your attendance at a Public Inquiry to decide whether to grant a new licence.

5. What are the current operator licence financial standing levels?

   8:59 am Comments Off on What are the current operator licence financial standing levels?

   Operator licence financial standing levels are adjusted on an annual basis. As of January 2021, for a Standard type licence, you must show financial standing of £8,200 for the first vehicle and £4,450 for each additional vehicle. For example, if you apply for a three vehicle licence, you must have available resources of £16,900.

   For Restricted licences, you must show £3,100 for the first vehicle and £1,700 for each additional vehicle. Again, as an example, a two vehicle licence would require financial standing of £4,800.