SERVICE
SERVICE
Independent HGV Operator
A structured, evidence-based assessment of whether your transport compliance systems are suitable and working effectively.
Independent assurance based on evidence
Operator licence holders must have effective systems for the safe and legal operation of their vehicles.
An independent audit tests more than whether a procedure has been written: it considers whether the system is implemented, monitored and supported by reliable records.
LDP conducts independent HGV operator licence compliance audits for operators that want objective assurance, need to respond to identified risk, or have been asked to obtain an audit by the Traffic Commissioner or as part of an operator licence undertaking.
When MIGHT an independent audit be appropriate?
An audit may be commissioned...
- Voluntary assurance requested by a director or transport manager
- Following a compliance concern
- As part of due diligence
- Before or after regulatory contact
- To satisfy an operator licence undertaking
If a Traffic Commissioner, DVSA or legal adviser has specified the scope, deadline or reporting route, those requirements should be provided before the audit is agreed.
What the audit covers
Operator licence and management
- Operator licensing and undertakings
- Governance and management control
- Management review and record retention
Vehicle compliance
- Vehicle maintenance systems
- Safety inspection records
- Brake testing and tyre management
- Driver defect reporting and rectification
Driver compliance
- Driver licensing and competence
- Drivers' hours and working time
- Tachograph controls
Operator licence and management
- Operator licensing and undertakings
- Governance and management control
- Management review and record retention
Vehicle compliance
- Vehicle maintenance systems
- Safety inspection records
- Brake testing and tyre management
- Driver defect reporting and rectification
Driver compliance
- Driver licensing and competence
- Drivers' hours and working time
- Tachograph controls
Evidence is sampled according to the operation and the audit instructions. Interviews and system demonstrations may be used alongside records to test whether practice matches the documented process. .
A clear audit process
Before the audit
- Confirm scope, fleet, operating centres, deadline and evidence requirements.
During the audit
- Review evidence, sample records, speak to relevant personnel and test systems.
After the audit
- Provide the written report with findings and recommendations.
Before the audit
- Confirm scope, fleet, operating centres, deadline and evidence requirements.
During the audit
- Review evidence, sample records, speak to relevant personnel and test systems.
After the audit
- Provide the written report with findings and recommendations.
Where an audit is connected to an undertaking, the operator may also need to provide a formal response explaining how recommendations will be addressed. LDP can explain the practical actions required, subject to preserving the independence of the audit..
What you receive
The deliverable is a structured audit report with clear findings, risk-based recommendations and an action plan.
The report is designed to be useful to directors and transport managers while providing the detail expected from an evidence-based compliance assessment.
An audit is a snapshot based on the scope and samples reviewed. It does not transfer the operator’s legal responsibilities or guarantee future compliance.
Request an accurate quotation
To quote properly, we will normally need the following:
- Operator name
- Driver numbers
- Licence number/type
- Reason for audit
- Number of licences
- Required scope
- Operating centres
- Location
- Authorised and actual fleet
- Deadline
- Trailer numbers
Send any undertaking, DVSA request or relevant correspondence at the outset.
CALL NOW ON 0333 567 1966
Frequently asked questions
Are LDP audits suitable for a Traffic Commissioner undertaking?
They can be, subject to the exact wording of the undertaking, the required scope, deadline and independence. We review those instructions before accepting the work.
How many records will you sample?
Sampling depends on the size and risk of the operation and any applicable audit criteria. We confirm the evidence request before the audit.
Will the audit report say whether we have passed or failed?
The format depends on the audit purpose. The report will clearly identify the standard used, findings and actions; it will not conceal weaknesses behind vague wording.
Is this a DVSA Earned Recognition audit?
No. A formal DVSA Earned Recognition audit is a separate service completed against the scheme’s specific standards and process.
NOT SURE WHAT SUPPORT YOU NEED?
You don’t need to choose a service before contacting us, Tell us about your Operator Licence, Fleet and what is concerning you and we’ll explain the most appropriate next step.