Operator's Licence

Heavy Goods Vehicle Licence Types

Every business that owns, rents or leases a vehicle over 3.5 tonnes (in weight) carrying goods as part of their trade is required to have a Goods Vehicle Operator's Licence. There are three types of licence, as listed below:

Restricted Operator's Licence:

This type of licence is required for organisations dealing in the carriage of their own goods only. The rules allow the carriage of goods manufactured by the business, as well as the requisite raw materials for those goods. Carriage under these conditions is permitted both in the UK and the EU. It is strictly prohibited to carry goods for hire and reward under a restricted licence .

Standard National Operator's Licence:

This licence allows the carriage of own goods (UK and internationally) as well as goods for hire and reward (UK only).

International Operator's Licence:

This licence allows the carriage of ‘own account goods’ and those for hire and reward, both in the UK and within the EU.