Keeping you compliantfrom day one
Operator's Licence Support
Why your Operator's Licence matters
If you’re starting a road transport business, securing your O Licence is the first and most important step. Without it, you cannot operate legally and failing to comply puts your business and livelihood at risk.
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) is here to guide members through every stage of the process, from applying for your licence to staying compliant long after it’s granted.
As an RHA member, you’ll gain access to expert advice, compliance tools and ongoing support designed specifically for road transport operators.
Whether you’re applying for your first licence, making changes, or dealing with restrictions or refusals, we’re here to protect your O Licence – and your business.
Your legal obligations
Every operator must accept a series of binding undertakings when applying and maintaining an O Licence. These rules form the foundation of compliance. RHA membership is designed to provide the guidance, tools and expertise needed to meet them all.
Following rules on driving, drivers’ hours and record keeping- Keeping vehicles roadworthy, with defect reporting systems and maintenance records for at least 15 months
- Ensuring vehicles are not overloaded and stay within speed limits
- Operating only from authorised centres and within your vehicle allocation
- Reporting relevant convictions and significant changes promptly to the Traffic Commissioner
Keeping you compliant
In an industry governed by a complex array of rules and regulations, ensuring your business is complying with the law, can be a difficult process.
RHA membership provides your business with the services, business tools and information you’ll need to stay compliant and maintain your O Licence.
It’s more than just support – it’s a strategic advantage. Whether you’re a single-vehicle operator or manage a national fleet, we’re here to keep you compliant, competitive and connected.
01
Direct access to experts
- Unlimited advice via our Helpdesk and your dedicated Area Manager (all CPC qualified)
- Fast, informed guidance on licensing, tachographs, HR, compliance, and DVSA matters
02
Compliance tools & audits
- RHA Analysis – tachograph reporting with compliance dashboards
- Daily Defect App – digital walkaround checks and defect reporting
- RHA Fleet – manage and store vehicle maintenance records
- Vehicle inspections & compliance audits – keep your fleet safe and compliant
03
Training & development
- Industry-leading CPC and compliance training at discounted rates
- Safe loading, drivers’ hours and bespoke haulage courses
- Higher-than-average CPC pass rates
04
Legal protection & representation
- Affordable legal services for as little as 20p per vehicle per day
- Access to the recognised RHA Conditions of Carriage, helping limit liability and reduce insurance costs
05
Business tools & extras
- Cost tables, fuel price data, operational updates and Roadway Magazine
- RHA Rescue – nationwide breakdown recovery with pay-as-you-go pricing
- Member-only discounts on insurance, fuel cards, driver medicals, IT, finance, training and more
06
Networking & influence
- Join specialist groups (tankers, car transporters, waste, etc.) to share best practice
- Use the respected RHA logo to demonstrate professionalism
- Have your voice heard – we lobby government and shape industry policy on behalf of members
-min-1.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Who is RHA membership for?
Our membership is open to road transport businesses of all shapes and sizes including haulage, van and coach operators, industry professionals, freelancers and other companies operating in the sector.
Whether you’re just starting out or have worked in the sector for many years, becoming an RHA member means more than joining a trade body. It means having a powerful, expert partner dedicated to your success.
Why join the RHA?
Unrivalled experience
We have over 80 years of experience and support 8,500+ members across the UK.
Expert guidance
Our Transport Manager CPC-qualified team are on hand to help you navigate regulations with confidence.
Industry-leading best practice
We work with members to set and maintain the highest standards of safety and compliance across the industry.
Policy and influence
Our direct links with government and campaigning ensure your concerns are represented at every level.
What our members say...
We've recently had some issues with DVLA and they have gone above and beyond to help expedite responses and also to provide invaluable information to help us get one of our drivers back on the road.
Arthur Spriggs & Sons Ltd
Join a network that drives you forward
Don’t risk delays, refusals or enforcement action. With RHA, you’ll have the UK’s most trusted road transport partner at your side – keeping your O Licence secure and your business on the road.
To find out more about how RHA membership can help you, or to sign up, please contact our team.