Choosing the wrong operator’s licence type is one of the most common, and most expensive, mistakes a new operator makes. This guide explains the three types of goods vehicle operator’s licence in Great Britain, what each one permits, and what you will pay to apply.
Restricted licence
A restricted licence allows you to carry only your own goods in connection with your own trade or business. You cannot carry goods for hire or reward for anyone else. The classic example is a builder moving their own materials, or a retailer delivering their own stock.
The big advantage is simplicity: a restricted licence does not require a qualified transport manager or proof of professional competence. You still must satisfy the traffic commissioner on finances, maintenance arrangements and good repute, but the bar is lower.
Standard national licence
A standard national licence allows you to carry your own goods and other people’s goods for hire or reward, anywhere within the UK. If you are a haulier, a courier moving third-party freight, or any business charging to move goods, this is your minimum requirement.
Crucially, a standard licence requires a professionally competent transport manager (a CPC holder) exercising continuous and effective management of the operation. This is where many small operators turn to an external transport manager rather than employing one full-time.
Standard international licence
A standard international licence covers everything a standard national licence does, plus cross-border journeys into Europe and beyond. If you intend to run any international work, you need this type from the outset. It also requires a CPC holder, and the international stream of the CPC is the appropriate qualification.
What it costs and what you must prove
First-time application fees are broadly:
- Application fee: around £257
- Licence (grant/issue) fee: around £401
- Continuation: around £401, payable every five years
You must also demonstrate financial standing (available funds scaled to the number of vehicles authorised), good repute, suitable maintenance arrangements, and a lawful operating centre with sufficient parking. Standard licences additionally require the nominated transport manager.
Download: A licence-type decision flowchart plus a pre-application checklist covering financial standing thresholds, operating centre requirements and the documents the traffic commissioner expects to see.
Getting the application right first time avoids delays and the cost of a public inquiry later. If you are unsure which licence you need, or you need a transport manager to satisfy a standard application, browse qualified transport managers or request TM support and we will help you build a compliant application.