International Van Licensing
Operators of light goods vehicles (LGVs) with a maximum permissible weight exceeding 2.5 tonnes are now required to hold a Standard International Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence when transporting goods to EU Member States, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland for hire or reward.
At JMW, our expert road transport solicitors provide invaluable support to businesses and individuals navigating the intricate process of obtaining the necessary licences. With a reputation for delivering a high-quality, professional service, we assist clients in meeting their legal obligations, while minimising disruption to their operations.
Whether you need guidance on making a successful application, understanding the requirements of an operator's licence, or maintaining compliance with EU and UK transport regulations, JMW offers a tailored solution to suit your needs.
Contact us today to speak to a specialist solicitor about your international van licensing needs. Call 0345 872 6666 or complete our online enquiry form, and a member of our team will be in touch at a time that suits you.
On This Page
What Our Clients Say
How JMW Can Help
JMW’s team of specialist road transport solicitors offers unparalleled expertise in helping you to understand and comply with all necessary international van operator licensing requirements. Whether you are a business expanding operations across borders or an individual requiring legal support, we provide tailored advice to keep you up-to-date with evolving transport industry regulations.
Our team helps you with every stage of the operator licensing process, including:
- Determining which operator’s licence your business requires, such as a standard international operator's licence or a restricted licence.
- Preparing and submitting applications, ensuring all necessary documentation - such as proof of financial standing and vehicle maintenance systems - is in order.
- Advising on the criteria for holding an operator’s licence, such as the requirements relating to a transport manager.
- Offering guidance on operational requirements, including drivers’ hours and tachograph compliance and vehicle maintenance obligations.
By partnering with JMW, you gain access to high-quality professional knowledge that simplifies complex regulatory requirements. Our solicitors work to minimise disruptions, helping you focus on operating your business efficiently while staying within the bounds of the law.
If you have any questions about international van operator licensing or require legal advice, our team is here to help.
What Are Operators’ Responsibilities in Relation to International Van Licensing?
From 21st May 2022, operators of goods vehicles with a maximum permissible weight exceeding 2.5 tonnes are required to hold a Standard International Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence when operating internationally for hire or reward. This is a significant change from the previous threshold of 3.5 tonnes and above, bringing LGVs into the scope of operator licensing for the first time.
To obtain a Standard International Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence, operators must meet the following core requirements of operator licensing:
- Professional competence: Operators must demonstrate that their transport manager has the Transport Manager CPC qualification or has been temporarily recognised as a transport manager.
- Stable establishment: Businesses must have a registered address within the UK where records and correspondence can be accessed.
- Financial standing: Operators must prove sufficient financial resources to maintain their vehicles. For LGVs, the financial standing requirement is £1,600 for the first vehicle (compared to £8,000 for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs)) and £800 for each subsequent vehicle (compared to £4,500 for HGVs).
- Good repute: Operators and transport managers must maintain their good repute, and the Traffic Commissioners will consider a wide range of conduct that may affect good repute (including convictions and previous compliance history).
If you require guidance on any aspect of these operator licensing requirements, JMW’s expert solicitors are here to help. We provide the advice that businesses need to understand and fulfil their responsibilities, while avoiding penalties for non-compliance, and can assist with the required applications.
FAQs About International Van Licensing
- Which types of vehicles fall under the need for international licensing?
A Standard International Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence is required for various types of vehicles travelling internationally for hire or reward. The licensing requirement applies to:
- Vans or other light goods vehicles: Vehicles with a maximum permissible weight exceeding 2.5 tonnes.
- Heavy goods vehicles: Vehicles with a maximum permissible weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes.
- Vans towing trailers: Where the combined gross plated weight of the van and trailer exceeds 2.5 tonnes.
- Cars towing trailers: Where the combined gross plated weight of the car and trailer exceeds 2.5-tonne and is used for commercial purposes.
The following points should be taken into consideration:
- The 2.5-tonne threshold includes the vehicle’s gross plated weight plus the weight of any attached trailer and its cargo.
- Vehicles used exclusively for non-commercial purposes or personal use are typically exempt from these regulations.
- Even smaller vans or vehicles may require licensing if towing equipment or carrying additional goods increases the total weight beyond 2.5 tonnes.
Meeting this requirement demonstrates that all vehicles you operate that are used for transporting goods internationally comply with safety, financial and operational standards.
- Do I need to use a tachograph for light goods vehicles internationally?
A tachograph records data such as driving time, rest periods and speed. Its primary purpose is to monitor compliance with regulations designed to improve road safety and prevent driver fatigue.
Currently, operators of vehicles under 3.5 tonnes are not required to install or use a tachograph for international journeys. However, this will change from July 1st 2026, as all vehicles with a gross plated weight exceeding 2.5 tonnes that operate in the EU, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, will be required to have a tachograph installed.
For operators of LGVs, this will introduce new responsibilities, including:
- Installing an approved tachograph device in applicable vehicles
- Training drivers to use and maintain the equipment correctly
- Keeping accurate records of driving, duty break and rest times for inspection by authorities
Talk to Us
Navigating international van operator licensing and compliance requirements can be challenging, but JMW’s expert road transport solicitors are here to help.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your specific needs. Call us on 0345 872 6666, or complete our online enquiry form, and a member of our team will contact you at a convenient time.