What to Do If You’re Called to a Traffic Commissioner Public Inquiry
Being called to a Public Inquiry (PI) by the Traffic Commissioner is one of the most serious challenges a transport operator can face. Whether you're an HGV or PSV operator, transport manager, or company director, a PI can have significant consequences for your operator's licence and your business.
At Total Compliance, we’ve supported operators across the UK in preparing for Public Inquiries with expert compliance audits, corrective action plans, and ongoing support that makes a difference both before and after the hearing.
What Is a Traffic Commissioner Public Inquiry?
A Public Inquiry is a formal disciplinary hearing convened by the Traffic Commissioner, the regulator responsible for the licensing and oversight of commercial vehicle operators in Great Britain.
You might be called to a Public Inquiry if:
- You’re applying for a new operator's licence, and there are concerns about your fitness or financial standing
- You're an existing licence holder or transport manager, and the DVSA has flagged compliance failures
- There have been complaints from local authorities or residents about your operating centre
- You’ve breached licence conditions or regulatory undertakings
What Happens During a Public Inquiry?
The Traffic Commissioner will review your operator compliance records and question you directly about any failings, including:
- Maintenance and inspection schedules
- Tachograph records and drivers’ hours compliance
- Evidence of financial standing
- Staff training and supervision arrangements
- Honesty and good repute as a licence holder or transport manager
The Commissioner has the authority to:
- Revoke or suspend your licence
- Reduce the number of vehicles you're allowed to operate
- Refuse a new application
- Disqualify you from acting as an operator or transport manager
Simply put, the stakes are high.
Common Reasons Operators Are Called to Public Inquiry
The most frequent triggers for a Public Inquiry include:
- Poor vehicle maintenance systems
- Multiple tachograph infringements
- Evidence of overloading or unsafe vehicles
- Operating from an unauthorised location
- Failure to meet financial standing requirements
- Convictions for transport-related criminal offences
- Concerns about honesty and repute
These issues are often identified during DVSA roadside checks, audits, or licence renewal applications.
How Total Compliance Can Help You Prepare
At Total Compliance, we understand what Traffic Commissioners expect. We provide practical, expert-led support to help operators demonstrate genuine commitment to improvement and ongoing compliance.
Our services include:
- Pre-Public Inquiry compliance audits to identify and rectify risks before the hearing
- Corrective action plans with documented evidence of change
- Driver training and Transport Manager training to address tachograph, maintenance, or record-keeping issues
- Mock interviews and hearing prep to build your confidence on the day
- Ongoing support to help you avoid future regulatory scrutiny
We work alongside your legal representative or refer you to trusted legal partners if you require formal representation.
Facing a Public Inquiry? Act Now
The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Total Compliance is here to help you assess your position, correct compliance failings, and present your operation in the best possible light. Contact Total Compliance today for expert support and guidance ahead of your Public Inquiry.