It is very common for the name on an operator’s licence in the United Kingdom to change over time and the process for making such a change can easily be done once certain requirements are met. Understanding how and why a name can be changed on an operator’s licence is the first step to being able to make the necessary changes. Transport Managers or Operator Licence holders operating fleets should all be aware of how to make these changes in order to ensure compliance within their organisation.

Can you change the name on an operator’s licence?

Whether names can be changed largely depends on the entity of the business, whether you are running as a sole-trader, partnership or Limited Company.

• SOLE-TRADER and PARTNERSHIP – When an Operator Licence is issued to either a sole-trader or a partnership, it is issued in the name(s) of the indivduals that have applied. An Operator Licence issued to an individual or group of individuals cannot be sold or altered. Any changes would involve submitting an application for a completely new Operator Licence and surrendering the previous licence. This also applies to a partnership where one of partner resigns or is replaced within the business.
• LIMITED COMPANY – Although the Directors of the Limited Company have to be declared on the Operator Licence, the actual licence is issued to the Company, not the individuals. Therefore, changes to Directors can be amended on the Operator Licence. If a Company is sold, the Operator Licence can remain with the Comapny and the Director’s change. The Director’s listed on Companies House should always match those specified on the Operator Licence. The key is that if the Company Registration Number is remaining the same, amednments can be made.

How can the name be changed?

For a Sole-trader or Partnership to change their Operator Licence, a new application must be made online via the Government Website . This includes if the licence holders wish to change their business entity (for example, change from sole-trader to a partnership, or to a Limited Compnay)

To amend the names of Directors in a Limited Company, log into the Vehicle Operator Licensing Service portal and update accordingly.

Conclusion

Understanding the process of changing the name of an operator’s licence in the UK and when it can legally be done is very important for businesses. While it is relatively simple to make any changes to an operator’s licence once certain requirements are met, it is important to remember that the first step is to apply for a licence.

Operator licence holders must be aware of the changes that need to be made to their licence in order to ensure compliance in their organisation. Transport Managers, either qualified or looking to become qualified, are particularly important in this area in understanding the intricacies of managing fleets.

At NTP Online Learning, we have the knowledge and experience to help our learners become up to date with the requirements and compliance challenges of being a transport manager or operator licence holder. We provide courses that aid in meeting legal obligations and keeping you informed and up to date on all changes to the legal requirements. To find out more, just visit our website.