Operator Licence Awareness Training (OLAT / OLAC)

The Operator Licence Awareness Course (OLAC), also delivered as Operator Licence Awareness Training (OLAT), is a one-day virtual session covering the key regulations, roles and responsibilities that underpin compliant transport operations. It is ideal for new operators, directors, owner-drivers and anyone who needs to understand the promises made when an Operator Licence is granted.

Who the course is for

OLAT / OLAC is designed for operators and directors of standard and restricted licence businesses, owner-drivers, office staff who support compliance, and anyone considering applying for a licence. It is a strong foundation before progressing to the full Transport Manager CPC, and a practical refresher for established operators who want to be confident their systems still meet the standard.

What the day covers

The session is structured around the core pillars of operator compliance:

• The importance of compliance — what compliance means in a transport context and the consequences of getting it wrong, from fines and accidents to reputational damage.
• Key transport regulations — an overview of the major regulations and standards relevant to your operation, with a brief explanation of each.
• Roles and responsibilities — the duties of operators and transport managers, and the importance of communication, record keeping and transparency.

The day is interactive throughout, with a real-world case study, a multiple-choice quiz to test understanding, and an open Q&A so you can raise the issues that matter to your business.

Keeping your Operator Licence promises

A central part of the course is understanding the undertakings every operator signs up to. In summary, you must:

1. Keep vehicles taxed, insured and in MOT.
2. Check that drivers hold the right licence to drive HGVs.
3. Keep vehicles and trailers roadworthy and not overload them.
4. Obey the drivers' hours and tachograph rules.
5. Make sure drivers complete a daily walk-round check, recorded in writing, before driving.
6. Keep vehicle maintenance and driver-check records for 15 months.
7. Not operate more than the maximum number of vehicles stated on the licence.
8. Operate only from the operating centre(s) stated on the licence.
9. Tell the Traffic Commissioner within 28 days about any relevant convictions, a change in maintenance arrangements, a planned change in entity, or a change in financial status.

How the course is delivered

OLAT / OLAC runs as a live, virtual one-day course led by experienced transport professionals. Each session includes the case study, interactive quiz, an open discussion, a summary of key takeaways, a short homework assignment to embed the learning, and a feedback round. Pricing starts from £249. To book a place or arrange a course for your team, view our full training programmes or contact us.