Driver Responsibilities Under a Restricted Licence

For operators running vehicles under a Restricted Operator Licence, driver responsibilities are a crucial part of ensuring compliance, safety, and smooth business operations. While the licence itself limits the scope of operations compared to a Standard Licence, drivers still have significant legal and practical duties to uphold.

This comprehensive guide covers all the key driver responsibilities specific to Restricted Licence holders, explaining what’s required, why it matters, and how to implement best practices.

1. Understanding the Scope of a Restricted Operator Licence

Before diving into driver responsibilities, it’s important to understand what a Restricted Licence means for the driver:

• Vehicles are used only for the operator’s own business purposes

• Drivers cannot carry goods for hire or reward for third parties

• Operations are generally local or regional, often within the UK only

• Tachograph rules may or may not apply depending on vehicle weight and journey length

This scope defines many of the driver’s obligations and compliance requirements.

2. Driving Licence and Qualifications

Licence Validity

• Drivers must hold a valid driving licence with the correct vehicle category endorsements

• Licence checks should be performed regularly (at least every 6 months) by the operator

• Drivers must notify the operator of any changes, endorsements, or disqualifications immediately

Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)

• Drivers operating vehicles over 3.5 tonnes for hire or reward require Driver CPC

• Restricted Licence operations typically don’t require CPC if goods are carried solely for the operator’s own business

• However, operators and drivers should confirm whether CPC applies based on their exact operations

3. Vehicle Safety Checks and Walkarounds

Drivers have a legal duty to perform daily walkaround checks before driving:

• Check tyres, brakes, lights, mirrors, horn, and other safety features

• Look for visible defects such as leaks, damage, or loose parts

• Report any defects immediately using a standard defect report form

• Do not drive vehicles that have defects likely to affect safety or legality until repaired

Documenting these checks is crucial to prove compliance.

4. Driver Hours and Tachograph Rules (If Applicable)

Depending on the vehicle and journeys, drivers may be subject to driver hours rules and must:

• Use tachographs correctly on vehicles over 3.5 tonnes in scope

• Take required breaks and rest periods to avoid fatigue

• Keep records of driving, work, and rest periods

• Submit tachograph data to the operator for analysis

Restricted Licence holders often have some exemptions, but drivers should always clarify and comply with applicable rules.

5. Compliance with Operator’s Policies

Drivers must adhere to all company policies including:

• Health and safety procedures

• Vehicle use and maintenance protocols

• Record-keeping requirements (e.g., submitting defect reports, mileage logs)

• Environmental policies such as idling restrictions or fuel-saving guidelines

Compliance reduces risk and supports efficient operation.

6. Load Security and Weight Limits

Even when carrying their own goods, drivers must ensure:

• Loads are safely and securely fastened

• Vehicle weight limits are not exceeded

• Load distribution complies with legal requirements

• Any hazardous goods are handled according to regulations

Proper load management prevents accidents and legal penalties.

7. Behaviour and Conduct

Drivers represent the operator and must maintain:

• Professional conduct on the road and with customers

• Compliance with traffic laws and regulations

• Awareness and management of risks such as adverse weather or road conditions

• Prompt reporting of incidents, accidents, or near misses

Good driver behaviour supports company reputation and safety.

8. Reporting and Communication

Open communication is vital. Drivers should:

• Report defects, incidents, or delays immediately

• Provide accurate and timely documentation of journeys and compliance records

• Notify the operator of any personal issues affecting driving ability (e.g., illness)

• Cooperate with inspections or investigations by DVSA or the operator

9. Training and Development

Operators should ensure drivers receive appropriate training on:

• Licence-specific compliance obligations

• Safe driving and defensive techniques

• Use of tachographs and recording devices

• Company policies and legal updates

Drivers should actively participate and keep records of their training.

10. Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

Drivers can be held personally responsible for:

• Driving without a valid licence or qualifications

• Driving unsafe vehicles

• Breaches of driver hours or tachograph rules

• Failing to report defects or incidents

• Unsafe load management

Penalties can include fines, points on licences, disqualification, and in serious cases, prosecution.

Final Thoughts

Drivers operating under a Restricted Operator Licence shoulder critical responsibilities that directly impact compliance, safety, and business success. Clear communication, training, and record-keeping support drivers in meeting these duties effectively.

Operators should foster a culture of compliance and safety, ensuring drivers understand their roles and are equipped to perform them.