Driving test: cars

Booking your test

You can book your driving test when you’ve passed your theory test.

You do not need to pass another theory test if you’re upgrading an automatic car licence to a manual licence.

To pass the driving test (your driving test) you must be able to:

drive safely in different road and traffic conditions

show that you know The Highway Code by the way you drive

The national standard for driving cars tells you everything you must be able to do to pass the test (your driving test). Only take your test (your driving test) when you can do everything without instruction.

There’s no minimum number of lessons you must have done before you book and take your test.

Change or check your test details

You can change the date of your test after you’ve booked.

You can check the details (your test details) if you’ve lost the email confirmation you were sent when you booked your test.

Rebook your test

Rebook your driving test if you failed your test and want to resit it. You have to choose a date at least 10 working days away.

What to take to your test (your driving test)

You must take:

your UK driving licence

your theory test pass certificate, if you have it

a face covering, unless you have a good reason not to wear one

a car - most people use their driving instructor’s, but you can use your own car if it meets the rules

Your test (your driving test) will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

When you must not go to your test (your driving test)

You must not go to your test (your driving test) if:

you or someone you live with has coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms

you’ve been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19

you’re self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Wearing a face covering

You must bring and wear a face covering for your test (your driving test), unless you have a good reason not to. Good reasons are things like:

having a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

You need to say if you have a good reason not to wear a face covering when you book your test.

Your test will be cancelled if you come for your test without a face covering and you did not say that you could not wear one when you booked it.

You can take it off during your test (your driving test) if you need to avoid harm or injury.

Because of COVID-19 the car you use must have the windows open throughout the test (your driving test). Wear clothing suitable for the weather.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours (Your driving licence) before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

Rearrange your test if you do not get the new licence (a replacement driving licence) in enough time.

If you do not have a photocard licence

Bring a valid passport and your paper licence.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

Bring the Northern Ireland photocard and paper counterpart (a valid passport and your paper licence).

If you’ve lost your theory test certificate

You do not need to get a replacement theory test certificate. Your driving examiner will check that you’ve passed your theory test before your driving test starts.

What happens during the test (your driving test)

There are 5 parts to the driving test (your driving test):

an eyesight check

‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions

general driving ability

reversing your vehicle

independent driving

The test (your driving test) is the same for both manual and automatic cars.

How long the test (your driving test) lasts

You’ll drive for around 40 minutes.

You’ll drive for around 70 minutes if you’re taking an extended driving test because you’ve been banned from driving.

Eyesight check

You’ll have to read a number plate from a distance of:

20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate

20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate

New-style number plates start with 2 letters followed by 2 numbers, such as AB51 ABC.

You’ll fail your driving test if you fail the eyesight check (Eyesight check). The test (your driving test) will end.

‘Show me, tell me’ questions

You’ll be asked 2 vehicle safety questions known as the ‘show me, tell me’ questions.

You’ll be asked the:

‘tell me’ question at the start of your test (your driving test), before you start driving

‘show me’ question while you’re driving

Your general driving ability (general driving ability)

You’ll drive in various road and traffic conditions, but not on motorways.

The examiner (Your driving examiner) will give you directions that you should follow. Driving test routes are not published, so you cannot check them before your test.

Pulling over at the side of the road

You’ll be asked to pull over and pull away during your test, including:

normal stops at the side of the road

pulling out from behind a parked vehicle

a hill start

You might also be asked to carry out an emergency stop.

Reversing your vehicle

The examiner (Your driving examiner) will ask you to do one of the following exercises:

parallel park at the side of the road

park in a parking bay - either by driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out (the examiner (Your driving examiner) will tell you which you have to do)

pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for around 2 car lengths, and rejoin the traffic

Independent driving

You’ll have to drive for about 20 minutes by following either:

directions from a sat nav

traffic signs

The examiner (Your driving examiner) will tell you which you have to follow.

They (Your driving examiner)’ll set the sat nav up for you. You cannot use your own sat nav.

If you cannot see traffic signs

If you cannot see a traffic sign (for example, because it’s covered by trees), the examiner (Your driving examiner) will give you directions until you can see the next one.

Going off the route

The examiner (Your driving examiner) will not give you a fault for taking a wrong turning.

They (Your driving examiner)’ll help you get back on the route if you do.

If you make mistakes during your test

You can carry on if you make a mistake. It might not affect your test result if it’s not serious.

Your driving examiner will direct you back to the driving test centre if the mistake you made (a mistake) means you’ve failed. The test (your test) will end early.

Other people at your test

Your driving examiner’s (Your driving examiner) supervisor might sit in on your test to watch your examiner’s (Your driving examiner) performance. If you refuse, your test can be cancelled and you’ll have to book another test and pay again.

Driving test faults and your result

There are 3 types of faults you can make:

a dangerous fault - this involves actual danger to you, the examiner (Your driving examiner), the public or property

a serious fault - something potentially dangerous

a driving fault - this is not potentially dangerous, but if you keep making the same fault, it could become a serious fault

Pass mark

You’ll pass your driving test if you make:

no more than 15 driving faults (sometimes called ‘minors’)

no serious or dangerous faults (sometimes called ‘majors’)

If you pass your test

The examiner (Your driving examiner) will:

tell you what faults you made, if any

give you a pass certificate

ask you if you want your full licence to be sent to you automatically - give the examiner (Your driving examiner) your provisional licence if you want to do this

Apply for your full driving licence within 2 years of passing your test if you do not want to get your licence automatically.

When you can start driving

You can start driving straight away when you’ve passed your test. You do not need to wait for your full licence (your full driving licence) to arrive.

Contact DVLA if your full licence has not arrived 3 weeks after you applied for it.

If you do not pass

The examiner (Your driving examiner) will tell you what faults you made.

You have to book another test and pay again. You have to choose a date at least 10 working days away.

Appeal your driving test

You can appeal your driving test if you can prove that your driving examiner did not follow the law.

Read the guidance on appealing your driving test to check if your examiner (your driving examiner) followed the law.

If you have proof they (your driving examiner) did not follow the law you can complain to the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)

If DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)) agrees with your complaint, your test result cannot be changed but you might get a refund or a free retest.

If DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA)) does not agree with your complaint you may be able to appeal to a court instead.

Appeal your driving test to a court

You can appeal if you can prove that your examiner did not follow the law when they (your driving examiner) carried out your test (your driving test).

Your test result cannot be changed, but you might get a refund or a free retest if your appeal is successful.

You might have to pay significant legal costs if your appeal is unsuccessful.

You’ll need to appeal within:

6 months of your driving test in England and Wales

21 days of your driving test in Scotland

Check if you can appeal.

If your test is cancelled or there's bad weather

Your driving test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your car, or for other reasons.

If your test is suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this (suspended) happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You need to have passed a theory test in the last 2 years to take your driving test. Your theory test certificate will not be extended.

Bad weather

Driving tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, such as when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre (your test centre) is on your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your car

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example, if you feel unwell while taking your test

your car, for example, if it breaks down during the test (your test) or does not meet the rules to be used

If your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example, if the examiner is unwell.

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this (cancel) happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) cancels your test at short notice.

If you have a disability, health condition or learning difficulty

When you book your driving test you should say if you have a:

disability

health condition

learning difficulty

reason not to wear a face covering

You’ll still have to drive to the same standard to pass, but the examiner can make adjustments for your situation.

You have a disability

You’ll have time with the examiner once you start the test (your driving test) to talk about:

your disability (a disability)

any adaptations fitted to your car

They (the examiner) might also agree for you to have more time for instructions and directions during your test.

You’re deaf or have a hearing impairment

The examiner will use written notes at the start of the test (your driving test) to explain what will happen. If you lip read, they (the examiner)’ll also look at you so you can lip read what they (the examiner)’re saying.

The examiner will usually give directions to you as hand signals. These will be explained to you before your test starts.

Using a sign language interpreter

You can take a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter with you. They must be at least 16 years old.

Your driving instructor can be your interpreter.

You need to arrange your own interpreter and pay any fees that they (the examiner) charge. You can claim the cost back after your test.

You’re pregnant

You can take a driving test at any stage of your pregnancy. However, you must be able and willing to do an emergency stop.

You have reading difficulties

When you do the eyesight check at the start of the driving test, you can write down the number plate instead of reading it out loud.

You have learning difficulties

The examiner will make adjustments for the independent driving part of the test if you have learning difficulties.

They (the examiner) might ask if you’d prefer to follow traffic signs instead of directions from a sat nav.

Using your own car for your test

You can take your driving test in your own car rather than your driving instructor’s (the examiner) if it (your own car) meets certain rules.

Your test will be cancelled and you’ll have to pay again if your car (your own car) does not meet the rules (certain rules).

Rules about the car

Your car must:

be taxed

be insured for a driving test (check with your insurance company)

be roadworthy and have a current MOT (if it’s over 3 years old)

have no warning lights showing, for example, the airbag warning light

have no tyre damage and the legal tread depth on each tyre - you cannot have a space-saver spare tyre fitted

be smoke-free - this means you cannot smoke in it (your own car) just before or during the test

be able to reach at least 62mph and have an mph speedometer

have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500 kg

The MAM is the limit on how much the car can weigh when it’s loaded. It’ll be in the car’s handbook.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) safety

Because of COVID-19, you must clean the inside of your car before your test.

This (clean) means:

tidying unnecessary items from the dashboard, footwells, door pockets, cup holders and seats

wiping down the dashboard and car controls

The examiner will do an additional clean of some surfaces.

The car you use for your test (your own car) must have at least one window open on each side throughout the test (your own car). Any combination of windows can be opened - for example, one from the front and one from the back. Wear clothing suitable for the weather.

Things that must be fitted

The car (your own car) must have:

an extra interior rear-view mirror for the examiner

L-plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear

a passenger seatbelt for the examiner and a proper passenger head restraint (not a slip-on type)

Dashcams and other cameras

You can use a camera fitted for insurance purposes, as long as it:

faces outside of the car (your own car) and does not film the inside

does not record audio from inside the car (your own car)

Vehicle features

You can use a car with:

an electronic parking brake

hill-start assist

Manual and automatic cars

You can take the test in a:

manual car - these have 3 pedals

automatic or semi-automatic car - these have 2 pedals

If you take your test in a semi-automatic car you’ll only be able to drive automatic and semi-automatic cars once you’ve passed your test.

Hire cars

You can take your test in a hire car if it (your own car)’s fitted with dual controls and meets all the other rules.

Cars you cannot use

Some cars cannot be used in the test because they do not give the examiner all-round vision.

You cannot use any of the following:

BMW Mini convertible

Ford KA convertible

Toyota iQ

VW Beetle convertible

Check with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) before you book your test if you want to use a:

convertible car

panel van

Cars with known safety faults

You cannot use one of the cars shown in the table unless you have proof that it’s safe. This is because these cars have been recalled for a safety reason.

You must bring the proof that it (one of the cars shown in the table)’s safe (proof that it’s safe) with you when you take your test.

| Reason for recall | Vehicles affected | Recall issue date

Citroen C1 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Sep 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with vehicle identification numbers (VINs) between wF7xxxxxxER516105 and VF7xxxxxxER523367 | 28 Jun 2016

Peugeot 108 | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between VF3xxxxxxER256527 and F3xxxxxxER017078 | 28 Jun 2016

Toyota Aygo | Steering failure | Vehicles built between 9 Jun 2014 (9 Sep 2014) and 15 Oct 2014, with VINs between JTDJGNEC#0N022080 and 0N026438, JTDJPNEC#0N002099 and 0N002100, JTDKGNEC#0N022186 and 0N031372, and JTDKPNEC#0N002083 and 0N002102 | 28 Jun 2016

Toyota Yaris | Potentially defective seat rail track and/or steering column mounting | Some models built between Jun 2005 and May 2010 (‘05’ to ‘10’ registration plates) | 9 Apr 2014

Vauxhall ADAM | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6077301 to E6113446, and F6000001 to F6006544 | 29 Sep 2014

Vauxhall Corsa D | Potential steering problem | VINs with last 8 digits between E6071016 and E6118738, and E4181031 and E4308122 | 29 Sep 2014

Proof you need to bring to your test

You must bring proof that says one of the following:

the car was recalled and the recall work has been done

the car was recalled but did not need any work to be done

the car was not part of the recall (recalled)

The proof must be either:

the recall letter or safety notice, stamped by the manufacturer or dealer

on official or headed notepaper from the manufacturer or a dealer

Your test will be cancelled and you could lose your fee if you do not bring the right proof.


Motorcycle and moped tests

Booking your tests

After you’ve passed your theory test you’ll also need to pass:

an off-road riding test (known as the ‘module 1 test’)

an on-road riding test (known as the ‘module 2 test’)

Normally, you can book the riding tests separately or at the same time, but you must pass the module 1 test before you take the module 2 test. There’s a different fee for each module.

Motorcycle and moped tests and coronavirus (COVID-19)

Wear a face covering at the start and end of the test (when you’ll be talking to the examiner). If you cannot wear a face covering, you must tell DVSA when booking your appointment.

You can cancel your test appointment and get a refund if you cannot or do not want to attend because of COVID-19. Your instructor will need to cancel your test for you if they booked it.

What you need to do to pass the tests (the riding tests)

To pass the riding tests you must be able to:

ride safely in different road and traffic conditions

show that you know The Highway Code by the way you ride

The national standard for riding mopeds and motorcycles tells you everything that you must be able to do to pass the tests (the riding tests).

There’s no minimum number of lessons you must have done before you book and take your tests.

What to take to your tests

You must take:

your UK photocard driving licence

your theory test pass certificate

a moped or motorbike

your compulsory basic training (CBT) certificate - unless you’re taking the test to upgrade your full motorcycle licence

your module 1 test pass certificate - if you’re taking your module 2 test

a face covering, unless you have a good reason not to wear one

Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

When you must not go to your test

You must not go to your test if:

you or someone you live with has coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms

you’ve been told by the NHS Test and Trace service that you’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19

you’re self-isolating because you recently entered the UK

Clothing

You must wear:

a motorcycle helmet that meets British safety standards (unless you’re Sikh and wearing a turban)

motorcycle boots or other sturdy footwear that supports and protects your ankles

textile or leather motorcycle trousers or heavy denim trousers

a textile or leather motorcycle jacket or a heavy denim jacket with several layers underneath

motorcycle gloves

Wearing a face covering

You must bring and wear a face covering at the start and end of the test when you’ll be talking to the examiner, unless you have a good reason not to. Good reasons are things like:

having a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability

wearing it would cause you severe distress

If you cannot wear a face covering at the start and end of the test, you or your instructor must tell DVSA (the NHS Test and Trace service) when booking.

Your driving licence

You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.

You should rearrange your test if you do not get the new licence in enough time. You must do this at least 3 working days before your test date or you’ll have to pay again.

If you have a paper licence

You must bring a valid passport and your paper licence (a paper licence) if you do not have a photocard driving licence.

If you have a licence from Northern Ireland

You must bring the photocard and paper counterpart if you have a licence from Northern Ireland.

If you’ve lost your theory test certificate

Contact DVSA (the NHS Test and Trace service) with your:

name

address

date of birth

driving licence number

You’ll be sent a letter that you can take to your test instead of your pass certificate.

Motorcycles and mopeds you can use for the tests

The motorcycle or moped you use for your tests must:

be a solo machine - you can only use a sidecar if you have certain disabilities

have a speedometer measuring speed in miles per hour (mph)

display L plates (‘L’ or ‘D’ plates in Wales) on the front and rear

be insured, taxed and roadworthy and have no engine warning lights showing

Read the list of A2 and A motorcycles that can be used for riding tests.

Subcategories of motorcycles and mopeds

There are 4 subcategories of mopeds and motorcycles.

In both modules of the test, you must use:

the same subcategory as the licence you’re applying for

a vehicle with the same type of transmission (manual, automatic or semi-automatic)

| Moped, tricycle or quad bike | Light motorcycle | Standard motorcycle | Unrestricted motorcycle

Licence category | AM | A1 | A2 | A

Minimum age of rider | 16 | 17 | 19 | 24 (direct access) or 21 (progressive access)

Engine capacity | Up to 50cc | 120 to 125cc | At least 395cc | At least 595cc

Maximum speed | Up to 28mph | 55mph or above | - | -

Engine power | Up to 4kW | Up to 11kW | 20 to 35kW | At least 50kW

Motorcycle weight (without rider) | - | - | - | At least 175kg

Power to weight ratio | - | Up to 0.1kW/kg | Up to 0.2 kW/kg | -

Automatic and semi-automatic motorcycles

If you pass your tests on a motorcycle with automatic or semi-automatic transmission, you’ll only get a licence for those types of motorcycle (Automatic and semi-automatic motorcycles).

Engines with restricted power

You can restrict the engine power of a motorcycle so that it fits within subcategory A2 (20 to 35kW). You cannot restrict it below half its original power.

This means that if the unrestricted power of the motorcycle (a motorcycle) is 60kW, you cannot restrict it any lower than 30kW. A motorcycle’s unrestricted power must not be more than 70kW.

You must bring proof if you’ve restricted a motorcycle to subcategory A2 (subcategory A2 (20 to 35kW)) - if you do not your test will be cancelled.

The proof must:

be on headed paper

be from a main dealer, official importer or recognised specialist

show the motorcycle’s (a motorcycle) number plate (registration number)

You cannot use a dyno test certificate as proof of the restriction (restricted).

Motorcycles with variable power modes

If you use a switchable engine control unit (ECU) or variable power device, your motorcycle cannot have:

interchangeable carburettor heads

an exhaust manifold restrictor

a hidden ECU - it must be clear what power mode the motorcycle is in

Electric motorcycles

You can use an electric motorcycle or moped if it both:

has the same engine power as the petrol version

can keep that power (the same engine power as the petrol version) for at least 30 minutes

This is known as the ‘continuous power rating’ - you can check this with the manufacturer.

If you have a disability

You can use a motorcycle with a sidecar for your tests if you have certain disabilities. You cannot have a passenger in the sidecar during the tests.

Your licence will only let you ride motorcycles with sidecars.

You might be able to use a different vehicle if you’re disabled - contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) before you book your test.

Module 1 off-road test: what happens

You’ll take the module 1 test in an off-road motorcycle manoeuvring area.

The test (the module 1 test) normally takes about 20 minutes and includes:

wheeling the moped or motorcycle and using the stand

riding a slalom and figure of 8

a slow ride

a U-turn

cornering and a controlled stop

cornering and an emergency stop

cornering and hazard avoidance

For the hazard avoidance and emergency stop exercises you must ride at a minimum speed of:

19 mph on a moped

31 mph on a motorcycle

Your test result

You’ll be told if you’ve passed module 1 (the module 1 test) at the end of the test (the module 1 test).

The examiner will make a note of:

dangerous faults - these involve actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property

serious faults - these are potentially dangerous

riding faults - these are not potentially dangerous, but could become serious if you keep making the same mistake

You’ll pass module 1 (the module 1 test) if you make:

no serious or dangerous faults (sometimes called ‘majors’)

no more than 5 riding faults (sometimes called ‘minors’)

If you pass

The examiner will:

tell you what faults you made, if any

give you a pass certificate - you need to take this to the module 2 test

If you’re upgrading your licence through ‘progressive access’, you must pass module 2 (the module 2 test) within 6 months. You have to pass module 1 (the module 1 test) again if you do not.

If you do not pass

You’ll have to book another module 1 test and pay again. You have to choose a date at least 3 working days away.

If you’ve already booked the module 2 test you might need to change the date, since you must pass module 1 (the module 1 test) before you can take module 2 (the module 2 test).

You’ll lose your fee if you do not give 3 full days’ notice to cancel your module 2 test (the module 2 test). Sundays and public holidays do not count as working days.

Module 2 on-road test: what happens

You must pass module 1 (the module 1 test) before you can take the module 2 test.

You can book both modules at the same time, but if you do not pass module 1 (the module 1 test) you must wait 3 working days before you can retake it (the module 1 test).

The module 2 test normally takes about 40 minutes and includes:

an eyesight check

‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions

road riding

independent riding

You must bring your module 1 pass certificate to the module 2 test, plus all the documents you had to bring to the module 1 test.

Eyesight check

You’ll have to read a number plate from a distance of:

20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate

20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate

New-style number plates start with 2 letters followed by 2 numbers, for example AB51 ABC.

You’ll fail your riding test if you fail the eyesight check.

‘Show me, tell me’ questions

You’ll be asked 2 vehicle safety questions known as the ‘show me, tell me’ questions. These test that you know how to carry out basic safety checks.

Road riding

You’ll drive in various road and traffic conditions, but not on motorways. You’ll be asked to carry out:

normal stops

an angle start (pulling out from behind a parked vehicle)

a hill start (where possible)

The examiner will give you directions using a radio. They’ll normally follow you on a motorcycle.

Driving test routes are not published, so you can not check them before your test.

Independent riding

You’ll have about 10 minutes of independent riding. This (Independent riding) is designed to assess your ability to ride safely while making your own decisions.

You can ask the examiner to repeat the directions if you forget them - you will not fail the test if you go off the route. You can not use sat nav.

Your test result

You’ll be told if you’ve passed module 2 at the end of the test.

The examiner will make a note of:

serious faults - these are potentially dangerous

You’ll pass module 2 if you make:

no serious or dangerous faults (sometimes called ‘majors’)

no more than 10 riding faults (sometimes called ‘minors’)

If you pass your test

The examiner will:

tell you what faults you made, if any

give you a pass certificate

ask you if you want your full licence to be sent to you automatically - give the examiner your provisional licence if you want to do this

You can start riding without L plates straight away when you’ve passed your test. You do not need to wait for your full licence to arrive.

Contact DVLA if your full licence has not arrived 3 weeks after you applied for it (your full licence).

If you do not pass

You have to book another module 2 test and pay again. You have to choose a date at least 10 working days away.

If your test is cancelled or there’s bad weather

Your riding test can be cancelled or stopped because of bad weather, problems with your vehicle, or for other reasons.

Bad weather

Riding tests are not carried out in dangerous weather conditions, for example when the roads are icy or if there’s flooding, thick fog or high winds.

Call your test centre if there are any of these conditions on the day of your test.

The phone number for the test centre (your test centre) is in your booking confirmation email.

If your test cannot go ahead

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (DVLA) will:

automatically book the next available date for your test

send you the details within 3 working days - it can take up to 7 days if there’s a long period of bad weather

You can change the date you’re given if it’s not suitable.

You cannot claim for any out-of-pocket expenses if your test is cancelled because of bad weather.

Problems with you or your vehicle

You’ll have to book another test and pay again if your test cannot be completed because of a problem with:

you, for example if you feel unwell while taking your test

your vehicle, for example if it breaks down during the test or does not meet the rules

Your test is cancelled for another reason

Sometimes DVSA (DVLA) has to cancel tests for other reasons, for example if the examiner is unwell.

You’ll be sent a new date for your test if this (cancel) happens. You can change the date if it’s not suitable.

You can apply for a refund of out-of-pocket expenses if DVSA (DVLA) cancels your test at short notice.

If you have a disability, health condition or learning difficulty

When you book your tests you should say if you have a:

disability

learning difficulty

health condition

You’ll still have to ride to the same standard to pass, but the examiner can make adjustments for your situation.

If your health condition or disability (a disability, health condition or learning difficulty) means you cannot wear a face covering to your test, you or your instructor must tell DVSA (DVLA) when booking.

You’re deaf or have a hearing impairment

The examiner will use written notes at the start of the test to explain what will happen. If you lip read, they’ll also look at you so you can lip read what they’re saying.

The examiner will usually give directions to you as hand signals. These will be explained to you before your test (the test) starts.

Using a sign language interpreter

You can take a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter with you. They must be at least 16 years old.

Your motorcycle instructor can be your interpreter.

You need to arrange your own interpreter and pay any fees that they charge.

You have reading difficulties

You’ll do an eyesight check at the start of the module 2 test. The examiner will ask you to read the number plate on a parked vehicle.

You can write down what you see if you have reading difficulties.

You have learning difficulties

The examiner will make adjustments for the independent riding part of the module 2 test if you have learning difficulties.

They (The examiner) might ask if you’d prefer to follow traffic signs instead of verbal directions.

You might be able to choose to follow a set of directions using a diagram. You’ll normally be asked to follow up to 3 directions at a time, but the examiner can reduce this to 2 at a time.

You’re pregnant

You can take the tests at any stage of your pregnancy. However, you must be able and willing to:

do an emergency stop

manually handle and wheel the motorcycle

do the cornering and hazard avoidance exercise


Private (personalised) number plates

Overview

You can buy a private (personalised) registration for your vehicle’s number plates from DVLA or from a private dealer.

If you have the right to a private number that is not currently being used, you can apply to assign it (put it on) to a vehicle.

Take a private number off (‘retention’)

If you do not want to use your private number (a private number) anymore you can apply to take it (a private number) off your vehicle. You can keep the number (a private number) (put it (a private number) ‘on retention’) to use later.

You’ll get a V778 retention document proving you still have the right to use the number (a private number).

Selling a private number

You can also sell your private number (a private number) if you do not want to use it (a private number) anymore.

If you’re selling your private number (a private number) online, do not share a scan or photograph of the V750 or V778 document. Someone other than the buyer might use it (a private number) to put the private number (a private number) on another vehicle.

Transfer a private number

To transfer a private number from one vehicle to another, you need to:

Take it (a private number) off the vehicle you’re transferring it (a private number) from.

Assign it (a private number) to the vehicle you’re transferring it (a private number) to (one vehicle).

You can also do this (Transfer) by post using form V317.

Buy a private number

Buy from DVLA

You can buy new numbers from DVLA Personalised Registrations.

Buying at DVLA auctions

There are auctions across the country about 5 times a year. You can see a list of the numbers coming up for auction.

You can bid in person, by phone, in writing or online.

You’ll get a V750 certificate of entitlement once you’ve paid for the private (personalised) number. This is to prove that you have the right to put the number on a vehicle (‘assign’ it).

Buying from a private dealer or person

You can buy a private number from a dealer or from another person.

Most dealers will transfer the number (a private number) to your vehicle for you. If you want to keep or assign the number (a private number) yourself, ask the dealer if you can have the V750 or V778 (the V750 or V778 document).

Assign a private number to a vehicle

To assign a private (personalised) number to a vehicle, you need one of the following:

a V778 retention document

a V750 certificate of entitlement

an online reference number

You get one of these when you either buy a number or take a number from another vehicle you own.

Eligibility

You cannot:

assign a number starting with ‘Q’ or ‘NIQ’

put a private number on a ‘Q’ registered vehicle

use a private number that makes a vehicle look newer than it is - for example, an ‘07’ registration number on a 2003 registered vehicle

The vehicle (a vehicle) must:

be registered with DVLA in the UK

be able to move under its (a vehicle) own power

be of a type that needs an MOT or heavy goods vehicle (HGV) test certificate

have been taxed or had a SORN in place continuously for the past 5 years

be taxed currently (or have a SORN in place - if it (a vehicle)’s had a SORN for more than 5 years, it (a vehicle) must be taxed)

be available for inspection

DVLA will check your application and contact you if your vehicle needs an inspection.

Apply to assign a number

If the vehicle (a vehicle) is:

registered to you - apply online or by post

a used vehicle you just bought - wait for DVLA to send you a new V5C in your name before you apply online or by post

brand new - give the dealer your V750 or V778 document and ask them to apply

registered to someone else and you want the private number to be transferred to them - apply online or by post

It’s free to apply online or by post. You need the vehicle’s log book (V5C).

If you already have a private number on your vehicle, apply to take it off first. You could lose the right to use the number if you do not.

Apply online

The number will be assigned immediately if your vehicle does not need an inspection. Be ready to put new number plates on the vehicle (your vehicle) as soon as you’ve applied.

Assign a number online

This service is open from 7am to 7pm. It’s also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

Apply by post

It is taking longer than usual to process paper applications because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Send all of the following documents to DVLA:

the completed V750 or V778 - the address is on the form

the vehicle’s (your vehicle) log book (V5C) or green ‘new keeper’ slip with a completed V62 ‘application for a vehicle registration certificate V5C’

If you’re assigning the number to someone else’s vehicle, add them as a ‘nominee’ - complete section 2 of the V750 or V778.

To tax your vehicle at the same time, include all of the following:

a V10 ‘application for vehicle tax’ form

the right amount of vehicle tax

an MOT certificate

After you assign a private number

You’ll be sent:

a new log book (V5C) - it can take 4 to 6 weeks to arrive

your original MOT back (if you sent it to tax the vehicle)

You must put new number plates on the vehicle before you drive it.

You can keep the original registration number and plates - they’ll be reassigned to the vehicle when you take off the private number (a private number).

You must not sell or get rid of a vehicle until you get the new log book (V5C) (a new log book (V5C)).

Who to tell about your new registration number

You must tell your insurance company.

Update your registration number for any automatic payment accounts you have, for example to pay:

the Congestion Charge

the Low Emission Zone Charge

the Ultra Low Emission Zone Charge

the Dart Charge

charges for driving in Clean Air Zones

You may get a penalty charge if you do not update your registration details and enter one of these zones (Clean Air Zones).

If your vehicle has Clean Vehicle Retrofit Accreditation scheme certification, you also need to tell them your new registration number.

Take a private number off a vehicle

You can apply to take a private (personalised) number off a vehicle if you want to either:

keep the number (a private (personalised) number) to use later

assign it (a private (personalised) number) to another vehicle

You cannot keep a number starting with ‘Q’ or ‘NIQ’.

The vehicle’s (a vehicle) original registration number is usually reassigned to it (a vehicle) automatically when you take off a private number.

If your application is successful you’ll be sent a V778 retention document and a new log book (V5C).

You must have your V778 and new log book (the original registration number and plates) before you scrap or sell your vehicle - otherwise you’ll lose the right to use the private number (a private number).

Eligibility

The vehicle must:

be registered with DVLA in the UK

be able to move under its (The vehicle) own power

be of a type that needs an MOT or heavy goods vehicle (HGV) test certificate

have been taxed or had a SORN in place continuously for the past 5 years

be available for inspection

DVLA will check your application and contact you if your vehicle needs an inspection.

Apply to take off a number

You can apply online or by post. It costs £80. You must have the vehicle’s log book (V5C).

If the vehicle (a vehicle)’s not in your name, you have to apply by post.

Apply online

The number (a number) will be removed immediately if your vehicle (a vehicle) does not need an inspection.

You can assign the number (a number) to another vehicle as soon as you’ve applied to take it (a number) off - use the reference number you get after you apply.

Take off a number online

This service is open from 7am to 7pm. It’s also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

Apply by post

It is taking longer than usual to process paper applications because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Send all of the following to DVLA:

a V317 ‘transfer or retain a vehicle registration number’ form - the address is on the form

the vehicle’s log book (V5C) or green ‘new keeper’ slip with a completed V62 ‘application for a vehicle registration certificate V5C’

the £80 transfer fee

To tax your vehicle at the same time, send all of the following:

a V10 ‘application for vehicle tax’ form

the right amount of vehicle tax

an MOT certificate

After you apply

Your original number plate will usually be reassigned to your vehicle automatically, if your application is successful. This will happen straight away.

You’ll be sent:

a new log book (V5C) showing the vehicle’s (a vehicle) replacement registration number - it can take 4 to 6 weeks to arrive

your original MOT back (if you sent it to tax the vehicle (a vehicle))

a V778 retention document if the private number is in your name

If the private number is in someone else’s name, the V778 document (a V778 retention document) will be sent to them.

Before you can drive your vehicle, you must:

put the original or new number plates on the vehicle (your vehicle) before you drive it (your vehicle)

tell your insurance company your new registration number

Who to tell about your new registration number

You must tell your insurance company.

Update your registration number for any automatic payment accounts you have, for example to pay:

the Congestion Charge

the Low Emission Zone Charge

the Ultra Low Emission Zone Charge

the Dart Charge

charges for driving in Clean Air Zones

What happens to the private number

Your V778 retention document (a V778 retention document) proves that you still have the right to assign the private number for the next 10 years.

You must renew your right to use a private number before the V778 expires.

You can give up your right to use the private number (a private number) if you decide not to assign it.

Renew or replace your private number (the private number)

You must renew your right to use your private (personalised) number every 10 years if it’s not being used on a vehicle. If you got your private number (the private number) before 2015, you must renew it (the private number) more often - check your V750 or V778 document.

You’ll permanently lose the right to use the number (the private number) if you do not renew it (the private number) before the expiry date. DVLA will not accept applications made after that date.

Renew your V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document

You can apply to renew your V750 or V778 (your V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document) up to 28 days before it (your V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document) expires. Do not apply earlier than this or your application may be refused.

You’ll get a reminder letter or email if you’re not using a private number and your right to use it is about to run out.

You can renew it (the private number) for up to 10 years, and it does not cost anything to do.

Renew your V750 (V750) online

You can renew your V750 (V750) by creating a DVLA personalised registration account or by using your existing account.

Renew by post

Fill in the form on the V750 or V778 (your V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document).

Send the V750 or V778 (your V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document) to the address on the form (the form on the V750 or V778 (your V750 certificate of entitlement or V778 retention document)).

Replace a lost or stolen V750 or V778

You can send a letter to DVLA Personalised Registrations to ask for a replacement V750 or V778 if:

it (the private number) has not expired

you’re the person with the right to use the number (the private number) (your name will have been on the V778 or V750 (your V750 or V778 document) as the ‘grantee’)

It’ll take around 3 to 4 weeks for the new V750 or V778 (a replacement V750 or V778) to arrive.

If your address or name has changed

You’ll need to include an extra document with your letter.

If your address has changed, include proof of your identity. This (an extra document) can be a copy of:

a household bill sent to you in the last 3 months

your Council Tax bill for this year

a bank or building society statement sent to you in the last 3 months

a medical card

your current British driving licence

your passport

your birth certificate

If your name has changed, include proof of your name change. This (an extra document) can be a copy of:

your marriage certificate

the decree nisi or decree absolute from your divorce

a deed poll to show you’ve changed your name legally

Sell or give a private number to someone else

You can sell or give a private (personalised) number to someone. The number must be assigned to their vehicle before they can use it.

If you’re giving a number to someone, follow the steps for assigning your private number to someone else.

Selling your private number

You can use a private number dealer or sell your number (your private number) yourself.

Do not share a photograph or scan of the V750 or V778 document (an extra document). Someone other than the buyer might use it (an extra document) to put the private number (your private number) on another vehicle.

Use a private number dealer

Most dealers will find a buyer, arrange the payment and transfer the number (your private number) to the buyer’s vehicle for you.

Sell your private number yourself

After you find a buyer, you’ll need to assign your number (a private (personalised) number) to their vehicle. Follow the steps for assigning your private number to someone else.

Assign your private number to someone else

You can put your private number on someone else’s vehicle online or by post.

After that (put), DVLA will send a replacement log book for the vehicle (someone else’s vehicle) but with the new private number assigned to it (someone else’s vehicle).

Online

You’ll need details from:

the log book (V5C) of the vehicle you’re assigning the number (your private number) to

your V778 or V750

The number (your private number) will usually be assigned immediately.

Assign a number online

This service is open from 7am to 7pm. It’s also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

By post

Send DVLA:

your V778 or V750 form - fill in sections 1 and 2 and sign it first

the log book (V5C) for the vehicle you want to put the private number (your private number) on

The address is on the form (your V778 or V750 form).

If the nominee dies

The person who has the right to use the private number (your private number) can change the ‘nominee’ (the person you’re giving the number (your private number) to). Fill in section 2 of the V750 or V778 with the new nominee’s details, sign the form (your V778 or V750 form) and send it (your V778 or V750 form) to:

Change your name or address

You can change your address or name on your V750 or V778 certificate.

Change your address online - V750 only

Use your DVLA personalised registration account.

Change your address by post - V750 or V778

Fill in the ‘change of address’ section on your V750 or V778 (your V750 or V778 certificate). Sign it (your V778 or V750 form) and send it (your V778 or V750 form) to DVLA Personalised Registrations.

If you do not have your V750 or V778 (your V750 or V778 certificate)

Write a letter saying what your new address is. Sign it and send it to DVLA Personalised Registrations with proof of your identity. This can be a copy of:

a household bill sent to you in the last 3 months

your Council Tax bill for this year

a bank or building society statement sent to you in the last 3 months

a medical card

your current British driving licence

your passport

your birth certificate

Change your name - V750 or V778

You can only change your name by post. You’ll need proof of your name change - this can be a copy of:

your marriage certificate

the decree nisi or decree absolute from your divorce

a deed poll to show you’ve changed your name legally

Fill in the ‘nominee details’ section on your V750 or V778 (your V750 or V778 certificate). Sign it and send it to DVLA Personalised Registrations with proof of your name change.

Write a letter saying what your new name is. Sign it and send it to DVLA Personalised Registrations with proof of your name change.

Fix mistakes

Write a letter saying what the mistakes are. Send it with the V750 or V778 (your V750 or V778 certificate) to DVLA Personalised Registrations.

Give up your right to use a private number

You might get a refund of £80 if you have the right to use a private number but you decide not to assign it to a vehicle.

This (a refund of £80) refunds the £80 fee you paid when you either:

bought the number (a private number) (the fee (a refund of £80) was included in the cost)

took the number (a private number) off a vehicle

You can apply for a refund if:

the number (a private number) was not assigned to any vehicle after you paid the fee (a refund of £80)

you have the latest V778 or V750 document - if you’ve lost it and it’s still valid you can get a replacement from DVLA (DVLA Personalised Registrations)

If the document (the latest V778 or V750 document) was issued before 9 March 2015, you can only get a refund once it (the latest V778 or V750 document) expires. You cannot get a replacement document if it’s expired.

Tick the ‘Give up the right to this registered number (surrender)’ section of the V778 or V750 document (the latest V778 or V750 document), sign it (the latest V778 or V750 document) and send it (a private number) to:

You cannot use the private number (a private number) after you give up your right to it (a private number).

There’s a different process if the person with the right to use the private number (a private number) has died.

If the person with the right to use the private number (a private number) dies

If someone has died and left you a personalised number in their will, or you’re in charge of the will (an ‘executor’), you can:

keep the private number (a private number)

transfer it (a private number) to another vehicle

put it (a private number) in someone else’s name

give up the right to use the number (a private number) (you can apply for a refund)

To do this, you’ll need to send a form to DVLA (DVLA Personalised Registrations), along with documents that prove you have the right to use the number (a private number).

Prove you’ve got the right to use the number (a private number)

You must send DVLA (DVLA Personalised Registrations) the death certificate when you send in your form (a form). The death certificate can be an original or a certified copy.

You must also send at least one of the following:

a certified copy of probate

a copy of the will (their will)

a letter from the solicitor confirming who the executors are or next of kin is

Keep or transfer the number (a private number), or give it (a private number) to someone else

Which form you send depends on whether the number (a private number) is already on (‘assigned to’) a vehicle.

If the number (a private number) is already assigned to a vehicle

Fill in:

the V317 form (if you have an old blue form, fill in section 2)

section 2 if you have a new style log book (with multi-coloured numbered blocks on the front cover) or section 6 if you have the older style log book

Make sure you include the details of the person you want to transfer the number (a private number) to, for example an executor or next of kin.

It costs £80.

If the number (a private number) has not been assigned to a vehicle

Send the documents that prove you’ve got the right to use the number (a private number) and either the:

V778 retention document

V750 certificate of entitlement form

The executors must sign the V778 or V750 before you send it (a private number).

You must also send a covering letter from the executors saying if you want to:

keep the number (a private number)

give the number (a private number) to someone else

If you do not have the V778 or V750

Send DVLA (DVLA Personalised Registrations):

the documents that prove you have the right to use the number (a private number)

a covering letter signed by all the executors (the executors) confirming that you do not have the forms, and explaining what you want to do with the number (a private number)

Give up your right to use the private number (a private number)

You might be able to get a refund of the £80 assignment fee if:

a private number was not assigned to a vehicle after the fee (the £80 assignment fee) was paid

Check the V778 or V750 document (the latest V778 or V750 document) to find out if a fee was paid.

If the document (the latest V778 or V750 document) was issued before 9 March 2015, you can only get a refund once it (the latest V778 or V750 document) expires. You cannot get a replacement document if it (the latest V778 or V750 document)’s expired.

Send DVLA:

the V778 or V750 document (the latest V778 or V750 document) - tick the ‘Refund of the assignment fee (the £80 assignment fee)’ section and get all the executors (the executors) to sign it

If you do not have the V778 or V750 (the latest V778 or V750 document)

Send DVLA:

the documents that prove you have the right to use the number

a covering letter signed by the all the executors (the executors) confirming that you do not have the forms, and explaining what you want to do with the number (a private number)


Boatmasters' licence

Check if you need a licence

You must have a boatmasters’ licence if you’re the master of certain vessels on:

inland waters in categories A to D, such as canals, rivers, lakes and some estuaries

‘limited’ coastal area operations - no more than 5 miles from the land and 15 miles from where your vessel sets off or arrives

You may be prosecuted and fined for not having the right boatmasters’ licence.

Find out what types and class of vessels can operate on UK inland waters.

When you do not need a licence

You do not need a boatmasters’ licence if you’re in charge of:

a pleasure vessel, including hire boats used as pleasure vessels

fishing vessels

Using alternative certificates

Some certificates can be used instead of a boatmasters’ licence, including STCW certificates of competency and certificates awarded by the Royal Yachting Association.

If you have an alternative certificate, you must:

check if you need a paper endorsement or a boat handling test - read sections 3 and 4 of the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice

download and fill in the application form and send it to your nearest marine office

pay the right fees

Before you apply

Read the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice to find out:

which vessels you need a boatmasters’ licence for

what kinds of boatmasters’ licence you can apply for

what you need to apply for a boatmasters’ licence

what you need to revalidate a boatmasters’ licence

alternative qualifications you can have instead of a boatmasters’ licence

information on local knowledge requirements

You should also:

keep records of relevant work and training for your licence application

check for local regulations, such as byelaws that you may need to know

check that you have safety training from an approved training provider

How to apply

You’ll need to:

read the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice

download the application form for a boatmasters’ licence (the application form)

pay the right fees

Replacing your licence

Download the application form for a replacement boatmasters’ licence.

Replacing your licence costs £23.

Renewing your licence

Your boatmasters’ licence (your licence) usually lasts 5 years.

Renewing your licence costs £31.

Download the boatmasters’ licence renewal application form. Send it to the address on the form.

Upgrading your licence

Download the form to upgrade your licence, or add another area to your licence.

The fee for upgrading your licence can vary.

Exemptions under the 2006 Boatmasters' Regulations

You need to apply for a ‘Tier 2 Level 2’ licence before your exemption expires if you want to keep working. This will cover all the areas described on your exemption certificate.

You may be prosecuted and fined for not having the right boatmasters’ licence when your exemption (your exemption certificate) expires.

How to apply

If you have an exemption certificate (your exemption certificate) and want to continue working, you must:

check if you can apply for a Tier 2 boatmasters’ licence by reading section 22 of the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work notice

download and fill in the application form (the boatmasters’ licence renewal application form) and send it (the boatmasters’ licence renewal application form) to your nearest marine office

pay the right fees


Taking a vehicle out of the UK

For 12 months or more

You must tell DVLA if you’re taking your vehicle out of the UK, including to the Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey), Isle of Man or Ireland, for 12 months or more.

This (taking) is known as permanent export. You’ll need to:

Fill in the ‘permanent export’ section of your vehicle log book (V5C) and detach it from the log book.

Send the completed ‘permanent export’ section to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BD (DVLA). Include a letter if you’ve moved abroad and want your vehicle tax refund (if you’re entitled to one) sent to your new address.

Keep the rest of your log book (V5C) - you need it to register your vehicle in the country you’re taking it to.

Update the address on your driving licence if you’re moving home.

If you’re due a refund, it will take longer than usual because of coronavirus (COVID-19). The refund is worked out from the date DVLA gets your ‘permanent export’ section (your vehicle log book (V5C)).

If you’re buying a vehicle to take abroad make sure the seller follows the correct process for vehicles that will be registered in another country. They must give you the full log book (V5C) - not just the new keeper slip.

If you do not have a vehicle log book (V5C)

Before you leave the UK

You need to get a vehicle log book (V5C) before you leave the UK. DVLA cannot send a vehicle log book to an address outside the UK.

When you get your log book (your vehicle log book (V5C)), fill in and send the ‘permanent export’ section (your vehicle log book (V5C)) to DVLA.

It will take longer than usual to get your V5C log book because of coronavirus (coronavirus (COVID-19)). If you do not receive it before you leave the UK, contact the driving authority of the country you’re travelling to to find out what documents you need.

If you’ve already left the UK

Contact the driving authority of the country you’re taking the vehicle (your vehicle) to (the country you’re taking it to). They (the driving authority of the country you’re travelling to)’ll tell you what documents you’ll need to provide to register the vehicle (your vehicle) there.

You also need to send a letter to DVLA to tell them (DVLA) you’ve taken the vehicle (your vehicle) out of the country (the country you’re taking it to). Include:

your name and address

where DVLA can send the vehicle tax refund (if you’re entitled to one)

If you cannot get a vehicle log book (V5C)

Contact the driving authority of the country you’re taking the vehicle (your vehicle) to - they (the driving authority of the country you’re travelling to)’ll tell you how to register your vehicle.

Send a letter to DVLA to tell them (DVLA) you’ve taken the vehicle (your vehicle) out of the country (the country you’re taking it to). Include:

your name and address

If the ‘permanent export’ section is missing

If the ‘permanent export’ section is not in the log book (your vehicle log book (V5C)), send a letter to DVLA to tell them (DVLA) you’ve taken the vehicle (your vehicle) out of the country (the country you’re taking it to). Include:

your name and address

the date you took the vehicle (your vehicle) out of the country (the country you’re taking it to)

Moving your vehicle between Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Fill in the change of address section in your log book (your vehicle log book (V5C)) and send it to DVLA.

Personalised registrations

You’ll need to transfer or retain your personalised registration before exporting your vehicle. Otherwise you’ll lose your right to the registration number.

For less than 12 months

You must take your vehicle log book (V5C) with you if you’re taking your vehicle abroad for less than 12 months. You may have to show it if you’re stopped at a port or while driving abroad.

Your V5C (your vehicle log book (V5C)) must show your most recent address in the UK.

Apply in advance if you need to get a V5C or update your V5C (your vehicle log book (V5C)) before you travel. It will take longer than usual to get your new V5C because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

UK law still applies to a UK-registered vehicle if you take it abroad for less than 12 months. That means you need to make sure:

your vehicle is taxed in the UK while it’s abroad

you have a current MOT

you have insurance

You’ll also need to make sure you meet any international or national conditions for licensing and taxation.

Check if you need to pay import duty

You may need to pay import duty on your vehicle if you take it outside the UK.  Check with the authorities in the country you’re taking your vehicle to.

You do not need to pay import duty to take your vehicle from Northern Ireland to Great Britain or the EU.

If you’re going to a non-EU (the EU) country that charges duty, you can buy a CPD Carnet. This lets you take your vehicle into the country (the country you’re taking your vehicle to) temporarily without paying duty. It can also make crossing the border simpler.

You’ll have to pay a fee and a deposit. You usually get the carnet (a CPD Carnet) within 4 weeks of applying.

Taking a vehicle to Liechtenstein, Mexico or Somalia

You must take an International Certificate for Motor Vehicles (ICMV) with you as well as your V5C.

Apply for an ICMV.

Bringing your vehicle back untaxed

If you bring your vehicle back to the UK untaxed you cannot drive it back into the UK - it’ll have to be transported and a SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) must be made straight away.

Taking hired or leased vehicles abroad temporarily

You’ll need a VE103 vehicle on hire certificate to show you’re allowed to use a hired or leased vehicle if you’re driving it abroad.

You can get a VE103 (a VE103 vehicle on hire certificate) for a fee from the:

British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA)

Logistics UK

RAC Motoring Services

Road Haulage Association (RHA)

Taxes if you buy a new vehicle to take abroad

If you buy a new or used vehicle to take out of the UK, you might not have to pay UK VAT or vehicle taxes such as the registration fee.

What you pay and how you pay it depends on where you’re exporting to and from.

Export your vehicle with the Personal Export Scheme

You may be able to use the Personal Export Scheme to take a new or used vehicle:

from Great Britain to anywhere outside the UK

from Northern Ireland to a non-EU (the EU) country

When you buy a new vehicle and export under the scheme (the Personal Export Scheme), you do not pay UK VAT. But you still have to pay vehicle taxes and the registration fee.

You must be planning to leave the UK for at least 6 months with the vehicle (a new vehicle). You usually have to be personally driving your vehicle (a new vehicle).

What you need to do

Fill in form VAT 410 (your supplier will give you a copy) and give it to your supplier.

You can drive the vehicle (a new vehicle) in the UK for up to 6 months after the delivery date (or 12 months for non-UK and non-EU (the EU) residents) - it (a new vehicle) must then be exported.

The date for export of the vehicle (a new vehicle) is shown on the VX302 (for new cars) or the VAT 410 (for used cars).

After export send the DVLA the:

VX302 - new vehicles

V5C - second-hand vehicles

If you do not export the vehicle (a new vehicle) on time you’ll have to pay the UK VAT.

Export your vehicle from Northern Ireland to the EU

If you buy a new vehicle in Northern Ireland to take to an EU (the EU) country, you do not have to pay UK VAT if you:

take the vehicle (a new vehicle) out of the UK within 2 months

do not drive the vehicle (a new vehicle) in the UK unless you register and tax it (a new vehicle)

Your supplier will get you to fill in form VAT 411.

You’ll have to declare your vehicle and pay VAT (UK VAT) in the other country when you get there.


Drivers' hours

Overview

If you drive a goods vehicle or a passenger-carrying vehicle you must follow the rules on how many hours you can drive and the breaks that you need to take.

There are 3 sets of rules that could apply to your journey:

EU rules

AETR rules

GB domestic rules

The rules that apply depend on:

the type of vehicle you’re driving

which country you’re driving in

If you drive under the EU or GB domestic drivers’ hours rules, you also need to follow the working time rules.

If you’re an employer of drivers or mobile workers there are more rules you must follow.

There are different drivers’ hours rules in Northern Ireland.

If you do not follow the rules (the EU or GB domestic drivers’ hours rules)

If you break the drivers’ hours rules, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) can give you:

a verbal warning, for minor offences made by accident or because of inexperience

an offence rectification notice, for offences which are not a risk to road safety - you’ll have 21 days to fix the issue

a prohibition notice, for serious or dangerous offences - you must stop a dangerous activity or start following the regulations

a fine or points on your licence (a ‘fixed penalty’) – the amount depends on how serious the offence is

You can be prosecuted for very serious or multiple offences.

DVSA (the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) can give you further penalties (such as an improvement or prohibition notice) if you also break the working time rules.

You can ask for an emergency exemption from the rules (the EU or GB domestic drivers’ hours rules). Read the guidance on emergency exemption and temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours and working time rules.

Drivers’ hours checklists

You can also print out the ‘Staying legal’ checklists, which cover the basic rules:

Staying legal - the basics (HGV drivers)

Staying legal - the basics (PSV drivers)

Rules for employers

If you employ drivers or other mobile workers, you must:

keep drivers’ hours records for at least one year

make sure they (drivers’) are properly trained and understand the rules (the EU or GB domestic drivers’ hours rules)

organise their (drivers’) time so that they (drivers’) can follow the rules (the EU or GB domestic drivers’ hours rules)

check your drivers’ hours records and data

monitor your workers’ working time

Mobile workers are:

drivers - including employed drivers, own-account drivers and agency drivers

members of the vehicle crew, for example a second driver on a coach

anyone else who is part of the travelling staff, for example a bus conductor, a drayman or a security guard aboard a vehicle carrying high-value goods

Goods vehicles

The rules that apply to goods vehicles depend on the weight of your vehicle, the country you’re driving in and what you’re using the vehicle for.

EU rules

EU rules apply if the maximum permissible weight of your vehicle or vehicle combination is more than 3.5 tonnes and you’re driving in any of the following:

the EU (including the UK)

an European Economic Area (EEA) country

Switzerland

Some vehicles are exempt from EU rules when driven in the UK.

AETR rules

AETR (European Agreement Concerning the Work of Crews Engaged in International Road Transport) rules apply if your vehicle will pass through an AETR country.

GB domestic rules

GB domestic rules apply if both the following are true:

the maximum permissible weight of your vehicle or vehicle combination is under 3.5 tonnes

your vehicle is exempt from EU rules when driven in the UK

If you’ll be driving through a country outside of the UK, EU, EEA or Switzerland, you should contact the UK embassy of the country to check on local rules.

More information

Read Goods vehicles: rules on drivers’ hours and tachographs for the main rules.

Read the rules for drivers’ hours in the recovery vehicle industry.

You can also print out the ‘Staying legal’ leaflet, which includes checklists covering the basic rules.

There are specific rules for tachographs and horse boxes or trailers.

Passenger-carrying vehicles

If you’re driving a vehicle that carries passengers the rules that apply to you depend on:

the number of passenger seats

how far you’re driving (the distance of your route)

if you’re driving to or from another country

if you’re driving on a regular or a non-regular service

A regular service follows a specified route, with stopping points for passengers to get on or off.

Public service vehicles (PSV)

A public service vehicle is a vehicle that’s used to carry passengers for hire or payment.

Type of operation | 8 or fewer passenger seats | 9 to 12 passenger seats | 13 to 16 passenger seats | 17 or more passenger seats

Regular service on route not exceeding 50km | GB domestic rules | GB domestic rules | GB Domestic rules | GB Domestic rules

National or international regular service on route exceeding 50km | The local rules of the countries you drive in (GB domestic rules in the UK) | EU/AETR rules | EU/AETR rules | EU/AETR rules

National or international non-regular service for example commercial excursions, tours or private hire | The local rules of the countries you drive in (GB domestic rules in the UK) | EU/AETR rules | EU/AETR rules | EU/AETR rules

Other passenger-carrying vehicles

You do not need to follow any drivers’ hours rules if you drive a police, fire service or armed forces vehicle.

If you drive for a different public authority or for a business, and your vehicle is a non-PSV with:

up to 8 passenger seats - you do not need to follow any drivers’ hours rules

9 or more passenger seats - you must follow the EU rules (unless your vehicle is exempt from EU law)

If you drive a ‘non-commercial’ vehicle

You drive a non-commercial vehicle if:

passengers are not charged to use the vehicle (a non-commercial vehicle)

you and any other workers are not paid to operate or work in the vehicle (a non-commercial vehicle)

the vehicle (a non-commercial vehicle) is not used professionally or commercially

If your vehicle has up to 8 passenger seats, you do not need to follow any drivers’ hours rules.

If your vehicle has 9 or more passenger seats, you usually need to follow the EU rules. You need to follow GB rules instead if your vehicle has between 10 and 17 passenger seats and is only used for non-commercial journeys.

If you use your vehicle outside the UK

If you drive between the UK and another country and your vehicle has:

up to 8 passenger seats - you must follow the local rules for the country you’re driving in

9 or more passenger seats - you must follow the EU or the European Agreement Concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR) rules

More information

Read Passenger vehicles: rules on drivers’ hours and tachographs for the main rules.

Exemptions from EU law

Some types of vehicle are exempt from EU rules.  This means they come under GB domestic rules in the UK (GB).

The main types of exempt vehicle are:

vehicles that cannot go faster than 40 kilometres per hour, including vehicles that are restricted by a set speed limiter

emergency aid vehicles - vehicles used in the non-commercial transport of humanitarian aid for use in emergencies or rescue operations

breakdown vehicles - specialised breakdown vehicles working within a 100km of their base

vehicles undergoing road tests for technical development, repair or maintenance purposes, and new or rebuilt vehicles which have not yet been put into service

vehicles manufactured more than 25 years ago

vehicles used by agricultural, horticultural, forestry, farming or fishery businesses for carrying goods within 100km of where the business is based

vehicles that are used to carry live animals between a farm and a market, or from a market to a slaughterhouse where the distance is less than 100km

vehicles that are used to carry animal waste or carcasses that are not intended for human consumption

educational vehicles, for example play buses and mobile libraries

vehicles or combinations of vehicles with a maximum permissible weight of 7.5 tonnes or less that are used for carrying work equipment for the driver where the distance is less than 100km

vehicles driven only on islands whose area does not exceed 2,300 square kilometres

vehicles with a maximum weight of 7.5 tonnes which use natural or liquefied gas or electricity as fuel and carry goods within 50km from their base

driving instruction or exams - vehicles used for driving instruction and examination. Includes instruction for renewal of Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC)

circus vehicles - specialised vehicles transporting circus and funfair equipment

milk collection - vehicles used for collecting milk from farms or returning milk containers or milk products for animal feed to farms

any vehicle that is propelled by steam

Read the full list of exempt vehicles.

EU rules

Driving hours

The main EU rules on driving hours are that you must not drive more than:

9 hours in a day - this (Driving hours) can be extended to 10 hours twice a week

56 hours in a week

90 hours in any 2 consecutive weeks

All driving you do under EU rules must be recorded on a tachograph.

Breaks and rest

The main points of EU rules on breaks and rest are that you must take:

at least 11 hours rest every day - you can reduce this to 9 hours rest 3 times between any 2 weekly rest periods

an unbroken rest period of 45 hours every week - you can reduce this to 24 hours every other week

a break or breaks totalling at least 45 minutes after no more than 4 hours 30 minutes driving

your weekly rest after 6 consecutive 24-hour periods of working, starting from the end of the last weekly rest period taken

Coach drivers on an international trip can take their weekly rest after 12 consecutive 24-hour periods, starting from the end of the last weekly rest period taken.

For more details on rests and breaks read:

Goods vehicles: rules on drivers’ hours and tachographs

Passenger vehicles: rules on drivers’ hours and tachographs

AETR rules

The European Agreement Concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR) rules are now the same as the EU rules on drivers’ hours.

The AETR rules (EU rules) cover all EU countries and:

Albania

Andorra

Armenia

Azerbaijan

Belarus

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Georgia

Kazakhstan

Liechtenstein

Monaco

Montenegro

Moldova

North Macedonia

Norway

Russia

San Marino

Serbia

Turkey

Turkmenistan

Ukraine

United Kingdom

Uzbekistan

GB domestic rules

The GB domestic drivers’ hours rules (GB domestic rules) apply to most passenger-carrying vehicles and goods vehicles that do not have to follow the EU rules (the EU rules on drivers’ hours).

GB domestic rules apply in Great Britain - there are separate rules in Northern Ireland.

Goods vehicles

Duty time

If you work as a driver for a company, duty time is any working time. If you’re self-employed, duty time is only time you spend driving the vehicle or doing other work related to the vehicle or its load.

Daily driving limit

You must not drive for more than 10 hours in a day:

on a public road

off-road if not during duty time

Off-road driving counts as duty time if it’s for:

agriculture

quarrying

forestry

building work

civil engineering

Daily duty limit

You must not be on duty for more than 11 hours in any working day. This limit (Daily duty limit) does not apply on any working day when you do not drive.

You must record your hours on a weekly record sheet or on a tachograph.

Exemptions

You do not need to follow the GB domestic rules (GB domestic rules) if you:

are dealing with an emergency - for example, a major disruption to public services or danger to life

are using the vehicle for private driving and not for work

drive off-road or on private roads during duty time

drive a vehicle used by the armed forces, police or fire brigade

Passenger-carrying vehicles

Duty time

Daily driving limit

You must not drive for more than 10 hours in any working day.

Breaks and continuous driving

After 5 hours 30 minutes of driving you must take a break of at least 30 minutes for rest and refreshment.

Or, within any period of 8 hours 30 minutes, you must take at least 45 minutes in breaks. You must also have a break of at least 30 minutes at the end of this period, unless it’s the end of the working day.

Length of working day (‘spreadover’)

You must not work more than 16 hours between the times of starting and finishing work - including non-driving work and any times when you’re off.

Daily rest periods

You must take a rest of 10 hours before the first duty and immediately after the last duty in a working week.

You must take a rest of at least 10 hours between 2 working days (or spreadovers) - this can be reduced to 8.5 hours up to 3 times a week.

Fortnightly rest periods

Every 2 weeks you must take at least one period of 24 hours off duty.

A fixed week is from 00:00 hours on Monday to 24:00 hours the next Sunday.

Exemptions

You do not need to follow the GB domestic rules if you:

drive for less than 4 hours a day in a week

If you drive for more than 4 hours for up to 2 days a week, you do not need to follow all of the rules. You need to:

follow the rules for daily driving limits and length of working day

start and finish all of your duties within a 24-hour period

take a rest of 10 hours before the first duty and immediately after the last duty

If you work overnight and the rules applied on the day your shift began, you must follow the rules for your entire shift - even if your shift finishes during a week in which you’re exempt from the rules.

Driving under both EU and GB domestic rules

If you work partly under EU/AETR rules and partly under GB domestic rules during a day or a week you need to know the following:

driving under EU rules counts towards the driving and duty limits under GB domestic rules

on any days you drive under EU rules you must take EU daily rest periods, as well as a weekly rest period

you cannot count the time you spend driving under EU rules as an off-duty period under GB domestic rules

driving and other duty under GB domestic rules count as ‘attendance at work’, not as a break or rest period under EU rules

Driving limits

You must follow the GB domestic limit of a maximum of 10 hours driving a day. But at any time when you’re actually driving under the EU rules (EU rules) you must follow all the rules on EU driving limits.

Other duty limits

You must follow the GB domestic limit of a maximum of:

11 hours on duty if you drive a goods vehicle

16 hours on duty if you drive a passenger-carrying vehicle

Rest periods and breaks

You must follow the EU rules on rest periods and breaks on days and weeks when you drive under EU rules.

A fixed week is from 00:00 hours on Monday to 24:00 hours the next Sunday.

Read Goods vehicles: rules on drivers’ hours and tachographs for the main rules.

Read the rules for drivers’ hours in the recovery vehicle industry.


Traffic commissioner public inquiries

Overview

Traffic commissioners are responsible for licensing and regulating operators of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), public service vehicles (PSVs) and local bus services. They can also take action against their drivers.

They can call a formal public inquiry in a court to get more evidence to help them decide if they should:

grant or refuse licences for HGV or PSV operators

take action against a vehicle operator, bus service operator or driver of a bus, minibus or lorry

This (call) might be if someone has objected to a licence being granted or the traffic commissioner thinks an operator may have broken the terms of their licence.

A vehicle or bus service operator can also request a public inquiry but the traffic commissioner doesn’t have to hold one.

Objecting to a licence

Licence applications are made public. Objections can be made by certain public bodies and in some cases individuals.

Objections by public bodies

Bodies that can object to a licence application include:

local and planning authorities

the police

some trade associations and trade unions

When a public body can object

A public body can object to a licence about the:

professional competence of the operator or its transport manager

operator’s finances

operator’s reputation or fitness to hold a licence

operator’s arrangements for vehicle maintenance and drivers’ hours

operating centre’s environmental standards and general conditions

Objections must be put in writing to the traffic commissioner within 21 days of a licence application being made public.

You can see the latest applications and traffic commissioner decisions in the regularly updated ‘Applications and Decisions’ guides for goods vehicles and the ‘Notices and Proceedings’ guides for public service vehicles (PSVs).

Read the guide on goods vehicle operator licensing for further information.

Objections by individuals (representations)

If a vehicle operator wants to add an operating centre to a licence or make changes to an existing centre, owners and residents of land nearby can object. This is called a ‘representation’.

However, representations must be about environmental issues, such as concern over noise, and only if they’re going to affect the owner or resident’s ‘use or enjoyment’ of the land.

Read the guide on making a representation or complaint for further information.

Being called to a public inquiry

You may have to attend a public inquiry if:

someone has objected to your application for a licence or change to a licence

you have not kept to the conditions of your licence, for example you’ve used more vehicles than permitted

there are environmental concerns about a goods vehicle operating centre on your licence

your conduct has come into question, for example you’ve been caught using a mobile phone while driving

You’ll get a letter with all the details.

Notice to attend

You’ll get a minimum of:

28 days’ notice if the inquiry is about a transport manager

21 days’ notice if the inquiry is about a new or existing goods operator licence

14 days’ notice if the inquiry is about a new or existing passenger operator’s licence

You cannot ask for the hearing to be changed to another date, unless you have a good reason that can be backed up. For example, if you’re going on holiday, you may need to send evidence to show it was pre-booked.

At the public inquiry

You can decide to represent yourself or ask someone to represent you, such as a lawyer. This could be someone else like a transport consultant if the traffic commissioner agrees.

Evidence is not given under oath but witnesses have to tell the truth.

If you do not tell the truth you could lose your licence or criminal charges may follow.

What happens at the hearing

Report to the inquiry clerk as soon as you arrive. The traffic commissioner will then:

decide whether oppositions should be heard

listen to the application outline and ask questions about it

listen to objectors or a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) traffic examiner outline their cases and ask questions

ask applicants and objectors to present their cases in detail - they (the traffic commissioner) or any of the parties may ask questions

question applicants on how conditions added to the licence may affect their business

ask applicants and objectors to sum up their cases

The traffic commissioner will announce their (the traffic commissioner) decision at the time, or give it in writing later, usually within 28 days.

Decision and penalties

The traffic commissioner can decide to:

refuse to grant a licence

refuse to vary an existing licence

attach conditions to a licence

grant a licence allowing fewer vehicles than the number applied for

impose financial penalties on registered bus service operators

end or suspend an existing licence

disqualify an individual or a company from having a licence

disqualify transport managers

You can appeal against the decision.

Appeals

You can appeal to the Upper Tribunal against a traffic commissioner (the traffic commissioner) decision (form UT12).

You must send the form (form UT12)) to the tribunal (the Upper Tribunal) within 1 month of the traffic commissioner’s (the traffic commissioner) written decision. The address is on the form (form UT12)).

Find out more about making an appeal to the Upper Tribunal.

Further information

The Office of the Traffic Commissioner has produced a detailed guide to traffic commissioner (the traffic commissioner) public inquiries. It includes further information on:

how you might be called to an inquiry

how you might find out if an inquiry is to be held

how they (transport managers) work on the day


Being a goods vehicle operator

Overview

You need a goods vehicle operator’s licence if your business uses goods vehicles above a certain weight.

The rules are different if you’re in Northern Ireland.

You need a licence to carry goods in a lorry, van or other vehicle with either:

a gross plated weight (the maximum weight that the vehicle can have at any one time) of over 3,500 kilograms (kg)

an unladen weight of more than 1,525 kg (where there is no plated weight)

There are 3 different types of licence - what you need depends on the work you do.

You must also make sure that any drivers you use or employ have the correct licence and training. All vehicles that you use should be correctly taxed and kept safe and in good condition at all times.

Some goods vehicles do not need an operator’s licence - read more about the exemptions.

Motor vehicles and trailers

You’ll need a goods vehicle operator’s licence for a motor vehicle and trailer combination if:

the motor vehicle and the trailer(s) are plated and the total of their gross plated weights is more than 3,500 kg

the total unladen weight of the vehicle and trailer combination (a motor vehicle and trailer combination) is more than 1,525 kg

You do not need an operator’s licence if your trailer’s unladen weight is less than 1,020 kg and you only carry your own goods.

Carrying goods for hire or reward

You’ll need a standard licence if you’re carrying other people’s goods for hire or reward (such as working as a courier or freight transport business) and the vehicle and trailer combination (a motor vehicle and trailer combination) exceeds the weight limits above for a single vehicle.

Types of licence

There are 3 different types of operator’s licence for goods vehicles. The licence you need depends on where you transport goods to and from, and who you do it for.

Standard national licence

This licence (Standard national licence) means you can carry:

your own goods in the UK and internationally

other people’s goods in the UK

You can also take loaded trailers to or from ports within the UK as part of an international journey, as long as your vehicles do not leave the country (the UK).

Standard international licence

This licence (Standard international licence) means you can carry your own goods, and other people’s goods, both in the UK and on international journeys.

After you get a standard international licence, you can also request the issue of a UK Licence for the Community. A UK Licence for the Community allows:

trips between all EU member countries

transit traffic through EU member countries

cabotage (a journey entirely within one EU country)

Restricted licence

This licence (Restricted licence) allows you to carry your own goods, but not other people’s goods.

Your licence will continue to be valid as long as you pay your continuation fee every 5 years and operate within the terms of your licence. You’ll be contacted every 5 years to make sure that your licence shows the correct information.

Contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if you have any questions about vehicle licences.

Transport outside the EU (EU)

Contact the DVSA International Road Haulage Permits Office for help with applications for transport outside certain EU countries.

Apply for a licence

The goods vehicle operator licensing scheme is administered by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) on behalf of the traffic commissioners.

The rules and fees are different if you’re in Northern Ireland.

How to apply for a licence

You can apply for a goods vehicle operator’s licence online.

You’ll also need to:

advertise your application for a licence

advertise your proposed operating centre(s)

designate a transport manager if you’re applying for a standard licence

provide information about your financial situation

draw up a maintenance contract with a garage or agent to do safety inspections and repair vehicles if you do not do this yourself

You’ll have to pay a fee to apply for a licence.

You’ll usually get a decision on your application within:

7 weeks if you apply online

9 weeks if you apply by post

Apply for an interim licence

If you need a licence urgently, you can apply for an interim licence until you get your full licence.

The traffic commissioner will only consider issuing an interim licence on receipt of a complete application for an operator’s licence.

What the traffic commissioners do

There are 8 traffic areas in Great Britain with a traffic commissioner responsible for each area. You’ll need to hold a goods vehicle operator’s licence for each traffic area where you have an operating centre.

Traffic commissioners are responsible in their area for:

licensing operators of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)

granting vocational licences

taking action against drivers of HGVs

When necessary, they (Traffic commissioners) also hold public inquiries to consider:

the environmental suitability of HGV operating centres

applications for new licences

disciplinary action against operators who have broken the conditions of their licences

Fees for goods vehicle licences

When applying for a goods vehicle operator’s licence, you’ll have to pay:

a one-off fee payable on application

a fee for the issue of a licence

a fee for the issue of an interim licence (if applicable)

You’ll then have to pay a continuation fee every 5 years to keep your licence active.

Action | Fee

Application for a licence | £257

Issue of a licence | £401

Continuation of a licence after 5 years | £401

Issue of an interim licence | £68

Major change to a licence | £257

How to pay

You can pay your fees:

online when you apply for a vehicle operator licence

by phone - call the DVSA Helpline on 0300 123 9000 to pay for the interim, issuing and continuation fees (find out about call charges)

by post - cheques should be made payable to ‘DVSA’ and sent to the following address

Operating centres

Your operating centre is where your vehicles are normally kept when not in use. When you apply for an operator’s licence, you’ll be asked to give the address of your proposed centre(s) and information about the numbers of trailers and vehicles you will keep there.

You’ll need to show that your operating centre (your proposed centre(s)):

is large enough

has safe access

is in an environmentally acceptable location

If you do not own the operating centre (your proposed centre(s)), you must show that you’re allowed to use it (your proposed centre(s)).

Advertising your application for a goods vehicle operator’s licence

You must advertise your application for a licence (your application for a goods vehicle operator’s licence) in a local newspaper and supply details of your proposed operating centre (your proposed centre(s)). This advertisement (your application for a goods vehicle operator’s licence) must appear at least once in the period from 21 days before to 21 days after you make your application (your application for a goods vehicle operator’s licence), to give people the chance to object.

Your application (your application for a goods vehicle operator’s licence) may be refused if you do not advertise the centre (your proposed centre(s)) properly.

Objecting to an application for a goods vehicle operator licence

Local councils, planning authorities, police, trade associations, trade unions and other bodies may object to your application for a licence.

Objections may be made on the grounds of:

your fitness to operate

your financial arrangements

your professional competence

the environmental impact of the operating centre (your proposed centre(s))

the general suitability of the centre (your proposed centre(s))

Your operating centre (your proposed centre(s)) will need to meet certain conditions and not interfere with any local amenities. Certain things will be taken into account, like:

its (your proposed centre(s)) effect on the surrounding environment

planning permissions or applications relating to the centre (your proposed centre(s)) or the land near it (your proposed centre(s))

the number, type and size of vehicles using the centre (your proposed centre(s))

where and how vehicles will park

how often and for what purpose the centre (your proposed centre(s)) will be used

Maintaining your vehicles

You must keep your vehicles safe and in good condition at all times. You’ll have to keep records of all safety inspections and maintenance that you or your maintenance contractor do for a minimum of 15 months.

Carrying out your own inspections and maintenance

If you carry out your own safety inspections and maintenance, you must keep records that include:

vehicle details

a list of all items to be inspected

when and by whom the inspection is carried out

the result of the inspection

details of any work carried out

a declaration that any defects have been properly fixed

Walkaround checks

You must make sure your drivers carry out a ‘walkaround check’ before driving a vehicle for the first time each day.

Using a maintenance provider

If you do not do this work yourself, you must provide the traffic commissioner with a copy of a contract with a maintenance provider. You’re still responsible for the condition of your vehicles and trailers, even if they are maintained for you by someone else.

Read the guidance to find out how to keep your vehicle in a roadworthy condition.

There are also specific roadworthiness checks for recovery vehicles and for horse boxes and trailers.

Employing or using drivers

If you employ or give work to drivers, you must check that they have the correct licence and training to drive goods vehicles.

Professional lorry drivers need to hold a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC).

If you employ or give work to foreign drivers, you should make sure they understand the rules for driving in the UK. The Highways Agency has produced guides for foreign HGV drivers in 6 languages.

Make changes to your licence

You can make changes to your goods vehicle operator’s licence once you have it, for example add more vehicles to it.

You can update your licence (your goods vehicle operator’s licence) online.

You must apply by post if you want to transfer your operating centre to another operator. Download and fill in form GV72 - the address is on the form.

Order a replacement licence

Write to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner if you need to replace your licence.

What happens if you break the terms of your licence

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency carries out regular roadside vehicle checks and checks on operating centres. They then submit information to the independent traffic commissioners.

Your vehicle may be prohibited or immobilised if a DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) roadside check finds that:

it (Your vehicle)’s been overloaded

it (Your vehicle)’s unroadworthy

it (Your vehicle) breaks the rules on the transport of dangerous goods

a driver has broken drivers’ hours regulations

Your licence could be taken away, suspended or restricted by the traffic commissioner if you:

break any of the terms or conditions of your licence

do not meet health and safety conditions

are convicted of certain offences

are made bankrupt or (if the licence holder is a company) that company goes into liquidation, administration or receivership

use a place not listed on the licence (your licence) as an operating centre

are given a prohibition notice by DVSA (The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) following an inspection

The traffic commissioner may decide to call you to a public inquiry to consider if any action against your licence is necessary.

Exemptions

You do not need a goods vehicle operator’s licence if your vehicle:

was first used before 1977, has an unladen weight of 1,525 kilograms or less and a maximum gross plated weight over 3,500 kilograms

is using public roads for less than 6 miles a week whilst moving between private premises belonging to the same person as the vehicle (if the vehicle’s used for excavation or demolition it does not matter who it (Your vehicle) belongs to)

is being used on trade plates

is a passenger carrying vehicle

Categories of vehicles that are exempt

Several types of vehicle do not need an operator’s licence, 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

Read the guidance to find out more about the vehicle operator licensing system.

Categories of vehicles that are not exempt

These types of vehicles are never exempt:

mobile exhibition vehicles

catering vehicles

mobile shops

mobile medical screening vehicles

vehicles with fixed equipment carrying goods not strictly for use in connection with that equipment, or towing a trailer that’s carrying goods