Transport Compliance Made Simple – Expert Support for HGV, PSV & Van Operators

If you operate goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (or run PSV vehicles), you are legally required to hold a valid operator’s licence. This licence ensures that you meet strict standards around road safety, maintenance, financial standing and professional competence. Without an O-Licence, your business cannot operate legally and faces significant penalties, including impoundment of vehicles and potential loss of repute.

Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is mandatory for anyone driving HGVs or PSVs professionally. It ensures drivers remain up-to-date with: safety standards compliance requirements road awareness professional driving skills Drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years. Failing to maintain Driver CPC can result in fines of up to £1,000 per driver — and per employer.

Driver hours regulations are designed to prevent fatigue-related collisions. They set strict limits on:

• Maximum driving hours
• Required rest periods
• Break requirements
• Weekly and fortnightly driving limits

They apply to most goods and passenger vehicles and are enforced heavily by DVSA. Accurate use of tachographs and proper record-keeping are essential to avoid penalties.

The Road Transport Working Time Directive sets limits on the total time a mobile worker can spend working — not just driving.
This includes:

• Loading/unloading
• Vehicle checks
• Waiting time
• Admin duties
• Training

The aim is to improve safety and prevent fatigue among professional drivers. Operators must monitor working time, retain records, and ensure compliance alongside driver hours rules.

Non-compliance can lead to:

• DVSA investigations
• Public Inquiry
• Financial penalties
• Licence curtailment, suspension or revocation
• Loss of business reputation
• Increased insurance premiums

Proactive compliance is always cheaper, safer and far more efficient than reacting to enforcement action.

A good consultant streamlines compliance by providing professional oversight, training, audits and ongoing support. With expert guidance, operators reduce risks, avoid mistakes and free up valuable time to focus on the business.