UK Laws and Regulations For Goods Vehicle Operators

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In the UK all goods vehicle operators require a goods vehicle operators licence, if the vehicles used are above a certain weight.

Specifically the gross plated weight limits, which is the maximum weight a vehicle can have at once, are 3,500 kg, or an unladen weight of 1,525 kg. Past these weights and the driver of the vehicle will require the licence.

  • Any drivers that are employed by a business must have the correct licences and training.
  • Goods vehicles must be correctly taxed and kept in good condition at all times.
  • The rules are different for businesses in Northern Ireland.

Drivers of goods vehicles that use a motor vehicle and trailer combination will also need a goods vehicle operators licence.

The weight limits for this are 3,500 kg, with a unladen weight of 1,525 kg. This is the weight limit for both the motor vehicle and trailer combination.

An operators licence is not required if the trailers unladen weight is less than 1,020 kg and the driver is carrying only their own goods.