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

Whether you need a licence depends on:

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

You need a licence for a motor vehicle and trailer combination if:

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.

You’ll need a standard international licence if you’re carrying other people’s goods for hire or reward (such as working as a courier or freight transport business) in Europe when using:

This applies in:

• Liechtenstein
• Norway
• Switzerland

Find out more about the rules for transporting goods in Europe using cars or vans and trailers, and check if they affect you.