Transport Compliance Audits: Stay One Step Ahead of the DVSA

What Keeps You Up at Night as a Transport Operator?

Is it the thought of an unexpected DVSA visit? The possibility of a public inquiry? That nagging feeling that something in your compliance systems might not be quite right?

You're not alone. Every transport manager and operator licence holder faces the same pressure to maintain standards, keep records perfect, and stay on the right side of the DVSA.

Here's the thing: you don't need to wait for the DVSA to tell you where you're falling short. Our in-house transport compliance audits give you the exact same scrutiny the DVSA would apply, but with one crucial difference, we're on your side.

What is a Transport Compliance Audit?

Think of it as a DVSA inspection, but carried out by someone who wants to help you succeed rather than catch you out.

A transport compliance audit is a comprehensive review of everything that keeps your operator licence valid and your fleet running legally. We examine your systems, your records, your vehicles, and your drivers through the same lens the DVSA uses during their visits.

The difference? Instead of enforcement action, you get detailed feedback, practical advice, and a clear action plan to fix any issues we find.

Everything the DVSA Looks At, We Look At

When we conduct a compliance audit, we're not cutting corners or doing a quick once-over. We're replicating a full DVSA audit because that's the only way to genuinely prepare you.

Driver Compliance and Records

Your drivers are the beating heart of your operation, and the DVSA knows it. We'll examine:

• Drivers' hours records and tachograph analysis - Are infringements being identified and addressed? Are records complete for the required 15-month period?
• Driver CPC and DQC cards - Are they all in date? Have you got the proper training records filed?
• Driving licences and medical declarations - When did you last check them? Are they valid?
• Driver defect reports - Are drivers completing them? Are you acting on them?

These might seem like basic checks, but you'd be surprised how often gaps appear during a DVSA visit. One missing licence check or incomplete tachograph analysis can raise serious questions about your systems.

Vehicle Standards and Maintenance

The DVSA doesn't just care whether your trucks pass an MOT. They want to see evidence of a robust maintenance system that prevents issues before they become dangerous.

We'll review:

• Maintenance schedules and records - Are inspections happening on time? Are they properly documented?
• Safety inspection reports - Do they meet DVSA guidelines? Are they being completed by qualified personnel?
• Defect management - When a driver reports a defect, what happens? Is there a clear process?
• MOT certificates and annual test performance - For fleets with more than 20 vehicles, you need to maintain a 95% initial pass rate. Are you hitting that target?
• Walkaround checks - Are drivers doing them? Are you keeping the records?

Operator Responsibilities and Systems

This is where the DVSA digs deep into whether you're actually managing your operation or just ticking boxes.

We assess:

• Transport manager involvement - Can you demonstrate that your nominated transport manager is genuinely in control of day-to-day operations?
• Transport manager qualifications - Are they current? Is your TM actually attending refresher training when required?
• Scheduling and routing policies - Are you planning routes that allow drivers to comply with hours rules? Can you prove it?
• Company repute - Have there been convictions, fixed penalties, or enforcement actions that might affect your licence?
• Policies and procedures - Are they documented? Are they being followed?

Dangerous Goods Compliance (If Applicable)

If you're carrying dangerous goods, you're operating under an additional layer of scrutiny. We'll check:

• ADR driver qualifications and training records
• Equipment certifications for ADR vehicles
• Appointment and involvement of your Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA)
• Compliance with packaging, labelling, and documentation requirements

Why Be Proactive Instead of Reactive?

Let's be honest, most operators only think seriously about compliance when they receive notification of a DVSA visit or, worse, a public inquiry call-up.

By that point, you're firefighting. You're scrambling to find documents, trying to remember where you filed that maintenance record, and hoping nothing serious turns up.

A proactive compliance audit flips that script entirely.

You Identify Problems Before the DVSA Does

When we find an issue during our audit, it's a learning opportunity. When the DVSA finds it, it's evidence of non-compliance that can lead to enforcement action, conditions on your licence, or even revocation.

You Build a Track Record of Diligence

If you ever face a public inquiry, demonstrating that you've been conducting regular audits shows the Traffic Commissioner that you take compliance seriously. It's evidence of good repute and professional competence.

What's Included in Our Audit Service

When you book a transport compliance audit with Open Road Training, here's what you get:

1. A Full On-Site Assessment

We visit your operating centre and examine your systems in detail. We're not doing this remotely; we need to see how your operation actually functions.

2. Document and Record Review

We'll examine at least one month's worth of operational records (often more), including:

• 15 months of vehicle maintenance and safety inspection records
• Tachograph analysis and infringement records
• Driver files and training matrices
• Operating centre records and load security procedures

3. Interviews and Observations

We'll speak with your transport manager, review their role in daily operations, and observe your processes in action.

4. Detailed Written Feedback

You'll receive a comprehensive report that outlines:

• What's working well (yes, we highlight the positives too)
• Where gaps or weaknesses exist
• What the DVSA would expect to see in each area
• Prioritised recommendations for corrective action
• A realistic timeline for implementing changes

5. Follow-Up Support

We're not going to dump a report on your desk and disappear. We'll talk you through our findings, answer questions, and help you understand the best path forward.

How Often Should You Audit?

This depends on your operation's complexity and risk profile:

• Quarterly audits work well for growing fleets, operators with recent compliance issues, or high-risk operations
• Six-monthly audits suit stable, established operators with good systems already in place
• Annual audits should be the absolute minimum for any operator serious about maintaining their licence

Think of it like servicing your vehicles: you wouldn't wait until something breaks to do preventative maintenance. Your compliance systems deserve the same attention.

Peace of Mind When It Matters Most

Here's the real value of a compliance audit: you'll sleep better at night.

You'll know that if the DVSA does turn up, you're prepared. Your records are in order. Your systems are robust. You can demonstrate that you're a professional, responsible operator who takes their legal obligations seriously.

And if you ever face the stress of a public inquiry, you'll have documented evidence that you've been proactive, that you've invested in compliance, and that any issues were isolated incidents rather than systemic failures.

Ready to Get One Step Ahead?

Whether you've been operating for decades or you're relatively new to holding an O-licence, a transport compliance audit gives you the confidence that comes from knowing exactly where you stand.

We look at everything the DVSA would look at. We give you detailed feedback on what's expected. And we help you stay ahead of the game.

If you'd like to discuss how our compliance audit service could work for your operation, get in touch with us at Open Road Training. Let's make sure you're ready for whatever comes your way: whether that's a routine DVSA visit or something more serious.

Because in transport, preparation isn't just good practice. It's the difference between keeping your licence and losing your livelihood.