Northern Ireland Operator Licensing

How does operator licensing in Northern Ireland work?

The Goods Vehicles (Licensing of Operators) Act (Northern Ireland) 2010 and subordinate legislation introduced important changes to the regulation of goods vehicles in Northern Ireland, including:

• Establishing own account licensing.
• Improving existing licensing arrangements.
• Improving enforcement.
• Introducing a clear and balanced disciplinary process for all licence holders.

Who enforces the requirements?

The operator licensing functions previously carried out by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) Northern Ireland transferred to the Transport Regulation Unit (TRU). This unit oversees the application process and the issue of licences and, through an appointed Traffic Regulator, manages the disciplinary elements of the legislation. 

Enforcement of the regulations remains with DVA and Police Service of Northern Ireland.