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Operator licence and discs
The goods vehicle operator licence, and the disc displayed in each specified vehicle.
This is general information for UK goods-vehicle operators. It is not legal advice. Use the official source on this page, and your operator licence conditions, before you rely on it.
What it is
An operator licence (often called an O licence) is the permission from the traffic commissioner to use goods vehicles above the licensing threshold. A disc is issued for each vehicle specified on the licence and is displayed in the windscreen. Standard licences cover hire or reward. Restricted licences cover carrying your own goods. The licence names the operating centres, the maximum number of vehicles and trailers, and the conditions and undertakings you must meet.
Who holds it
The licensed operator holds the licence. Each specified motor vehicle should carry its own disc. Transport managers and directors should know the licence number, the type of licence, and the margin of vehicles they are allowed to operate.
At a visit
Examiners and traffic commissioners look for a current licence, discs that match the vehicles in use, and that you are not operating more vehicles than the licence allows. They also compare what is on the road with the operating centres and maintenance arrangements you declared.