Guide 9. How to Deal with Lost or Stolen Operator’s Licence Discs
- stuart47304
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
An Operator’s Licence disc is a legal requirement for all goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes in the UK. It must be clearly displayed on the vehicle’s windscreen to demonstrate compliance with the licensing regulations overseen by the Traffic Commissioner. If one of your discs is lost or stolen, it’s essential to take immediate action to remain compliant and avoid potential fines or regulatory issues.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of reporting and replacing lost or stolen Operator’s Licence discs.
Why Is the Disc Important?
Before diving into the process, it’s crucial to understand why the disc matters:
It provides evidence that your vehicle is covered by a valid Operator’s Licence.
Failure to display it can result in penalties, roadside prohibitions, or even disciplinary action by the Traffic Commissioner.
A missing disc may also raise concerns during vehicle inspections or roadside checks by enforcement officers.
Step-by-Step: Replacing a Lost or Stolen Disc
Step 1: Confirm the Loss or Theft
Make sure the disc is actually lost or stolen. Check with your drivers, depot staff, or other colleagues to confirm it’s not been misplaced or taken down for vehicle maintenance.
Step 2: Report the Theft (If Applicable)
If the disc has been stolen, report it to the local police. Obtain a crime reference number, as this may be required when reporting the incident to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner (OTC).
Step 3: Log in to Your VOL Account
Use the Vehicle Operator Licensing (VOL) online system. You can access this at:
Log in using your Operator’s Licence credentials.
If you do not have an online account, you’ll need to register for one. This system allows you to manage your licence digitally.
Step 4: Report the Lost or Stolen Disc
Once logged in:
Navigate to your licence dashboard.
Select “Replace Disc” or “Report Lost/Stolen Disc” (exact wording may vary slightly).
Provide the relevant vehicle details (registration number, type of disc, etc.).
If stolen, enter the crime reference number obtained from the police.
Step 5: Pay Any Applicable Fees
At the time of writing, there is no charge for replacing lost or stolen discs. However, it’s worth checking the latest guidance on GOV.UK or via your VOL account in case of policy changes.
Step 6: Wait for the Replacement Disc
Once processed, a replacement disc will be posted to the correspondence address listed on your Operator’s Licence. Delivery times can vary, but you should allow at least 5–10 working days.
Step 7: Temporary Measures (If Needed)
If enforcement is likely during the waiting period:
Keep a copy of the confirmation email or screenshot from VOL as proof of your replacement request.
Inform your drivers to explain the situation if stopped at the roadside.
Display a notice in the windscreen stating: “Operator’s Licence disc replacement requested – [Date]” to show proactive steps have been taken.
Preventative Tips
Keep a log of disc serial numbers and vehicle allocations.
Secure vehicles to reduce the risk of theft.
Regularly audit vehicle displays to ensure discs are in place and legible.
Final Thoughts
Losing or having an Operator’s Licence disc stolen can be frustrating, but the process to replace it is straightforward if tackled promptly. The key is to act quickly, report the issue via your VOL account, and keep clear records of all communications. Staying proactive not only ensures compliance but also reassures the authorities of your professionalism as a transport operator.
