Vehicle Operator Licensing: Be aware of end to paper applications

The RHA is calling on members to be aware of the end of Vehicle Operator Licensing (VOL) paper applications for new licenses from 1 August 2022.

Although 89% of licence holders now have a VOL digital account that means more than one in ten are yet to go digital.

Major change

From 1 August, the Traffic Commissioner has said it will no longer be accepting major applications using paper forms.

The Commission said that applications made on paper forms are on “old, outdated forms that we can’t accept, and this delays applications”.

It also said it was “constantly looking to improve the VOL system” and had recently introduced an application checker so those making an online application for a new licence can see the “important things needed to get their application right first time”.

Next Steps

Those making a new application should register to use VOL before they need to make their application. If already operating, you should also register for VOL when you don’t have an online account.

You can register and make changes to licences online here

We know that a small number of you won’t be able to use the digital service and we will be providing a full assisted digital service for those unable to submit an application online.

For Great Britain, you can contact: 0300 123 9000

For Northern Ireland, contact: 0300 200 7831