Operators and drivers of vans and other light goods vehicles in Europe are being urged to apply now for an International Operators’ Licence ahead of new regulations coming into effect from 21 May 2022.

Anyone unsure if they are affected by the new rules is urged to seek legal advice

From this date, operators or users of vans and other LGVs over 2.5 tonnes and up to 3.5 tonnes in weight that transport goods for hire and reward from the UK into, or through the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, will need to obtain an International O-licence.

Importantly, the rules apply to both cars and vans towing trailers as well as vans or other light goods vehicles used for hire and reward in the EU, such as pickup trucks.

The regulations cover the gross combination weight of the vehicle and trailer, so if the combined gross weight exceeds 2,500kg (2.5 tonnes) and the combination is used for hire and reward work in the EU, the new rules will apply; even if the vehicle on its own has a gross vehicle weight of less than 2.5 tonnes.

The hire and reward rule only applies where the vehicle operator is paid or receives payment in kind for carrying goods for other people. The law does not apply to those transporting goods on a non-commercial basis or using vans for their own purposes, i.e. an electrician using a 3.5-tonne van and carrying their own equipment for their own use would not be affected.

Relevant vehicles that operate solely in the UK are also currently not affected – but the move could impact operators in Northern Ireland who operate across the Irish border into the Irish Republic, which is an EU member state. Anyone unsure if they are affected is urged to seek legal advice.

The new rules also include a requirement for operators to have a qualified transport manager when applying for a licence.  If you do not have the qualification, you may be able to be temporarily recognised as a transport manager if you have enough experience. Alternatively, if you already have a goods vehicle operator licence, you’ll need to add these extra vehicles to your licence.

But those with at least 10 years’ experience of managing fleets of vehicles can apply to be recognised as a temporary transport manager on the GOV.UK site.

As a further requirement, the Department for Transport has also stipulated that anyone transporting goods between two points in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway for commercial purposes must now make a “posting declaration”, which means registering the operator, driver, driver employment details, dates of travel and the vehicle used. This affects anyone using HGVs, vans or other light goods vehicles of any size, or cars – whether or not you’re towing a trailer. It also applies if you’re moving the goods for hire or reward, or for your own business use.

For more information on the rules, visit the GOV.UK website or access the EU Portal and FAQs now.