Operator’s License: What is it and who needs one?  

By Emily Riley|January 14, 2025|In Blog|7 Minutes

If you’re in the transport or logistics business, you’ve likely heard of the term “Operator’s License” or “O License.” But what exactly does it mean, and who is required to hold one?  

Whether you’re starting a new business, expanding your fleet, or simply trying to understand the regulations, it’s important to know what an Operator’s License entails and whether you need one.  

What is an Operator’s License?

An Operator’s License, often referred to as an O License, is a legal requirement for businesses that operate goods vehicles above a certain weight limit, typically those over 3.5 tonnes. This license ensures that the vehicles used for carrying goods are properly maintained and safe for use on public roads. 

The license is issued by the Traffic Commissioner, who also has the authority to take enforcement actions against license holders if they fail to meet the required operational standards. In essence, an Operator’s License guarantees that operators follow safety regulations and are compliant with transport laws. 

In addition to repairing potholes, maintenance vehicles also conduct road resurfacing to ensure the road’s surface remains smooth and durable over time. Without such upkeep, roads can become uneven, creating hazards such as sudden drops or cracks. This is especially problematic in areas that experience extreme weather conditions, which can impair road wear and tear. By keeping roads in optimal condition, highway maintenance vehicles help prevent accidents and reduce vehicle wear and tear, thus contributing to safer and more efficient driving conditions. 

Who requires an O License?

Any business that owns or operates vehicles exceeding the maximum authorised mass (MAM) for carrying goods on public roads will need an Operator’s License. This includes businesses that hire vehicles, as well as those that operate their own fleet. The key factor is whether the vehicle’s weight surpasses the 3.5 tonne threshold for goods vehicles. 

Are there different types of Operator’s Licenses?

There are three main types of Operator’s Licenses which are: 

A Standard National License is required for businesses operating within the UK. This license is for operators who carry goods for hire or reward solely within the UK, meaning they do not operate internationally. 

This license is required for UK based operators who transport goods between the UK and other countries. In addition to the standard UK license, holders of an International License are granted a separate permit for EU member states, provided they carry the necessary permits and documentation for international journeys. 

A Restricted License is for businesses that carry goods only for their own trade, business, or the trade of a related company (i.e., goods are not transported for hire or reward). A restricted license can also be used for international journeys to and from EU member states, but the operator can only transport their own goods. 

Vehicle Operator Requirements

For an operator to get an O License, they must satisfy traffic commissioners which includes: 

  • Fit to hold the license– which includes a clean record and compliance with regulations on maintenance, vehicle use, and driver qualifications.  
  • Sufficient financial resources – to maintain vehicles and pay required fees, demonstrated through bank balances or overdrafts for standard licenses. 
  • Adequate facilities – for vehicle upkeep, with evidence like maintenance contracts or inspection records.  
  • Compliant – rules on driver hours, weight limits, and licensing is mandatory.  

Standard license holders face extra criteria, including maintaining an establishment, good repute, and professional competence through qualifications such as the Certificate of Professional Competence or a qualified transport manager. Heavy goods operators must specify an operating centre, but light goods operators are exempt. 

Exemptions

Operator’s Licenses are not required if: 

  • Vehicles used before 1977, with an unladen weight of 1,525 kg or less and a maximum gross weight over 3,500 kg. 
  • Vehicles that travel less than 6 miles per week on public roads while moving between private premises. 
  • Vehicles used solely on trade plates. 
  • Passenger carrying vehicles. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, an Operator’s License is an essential element for any business operating heavy goods vehicles, guaranteeing that transport operations remain safe, legal, and compliant with both national and international regulations. Different types of licenses are available, tailored to meet specific business needs, ranging from national to international and restricted licenses.  

As a specialist fleet hire company, we will only hire to businesses and authorities that have a live O License. We understand how vital it is for businesses to stay compliant with these regulations, our contract hire and flexi hire maintenance offering ensure we work with our customers specific O License requirements.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Certain vehicles are also excluded from the need for an Operator’s License, including: 

  • Military Vehicles  
  • Snow ploughs and gritters 
  • Emergency service vehicles (including those used by gas, electricity, water and telephone companies) 
  • Hearses 
  • Recovery vehicles (only if they’re used exclusively for that purpose) 
  • Tractors and agricultural vehicles used in certain circumstances 

An Operator’s License remains valid for five years, but it must be renewed by paying a continuation fee. Every five years, the Traffic Commissioner will contact license holders to ensure that the information on the license is up-to-date, and that the operator continues to meet all regulatory requirements.