DRIVER CONDUCT HEARINGS

A driver conduct hearing before the Traffic Commissioner can place a vocational licence and a driver’s livelihood at risk. These hearings examine fitness, conduct and compliance and can lead to suspension or revocation of entitlement, as well as findings that affect good repute.

I advise and represent drivers at all stages of driver conduct proceedings, providing clear guidance, thorough preparation and focused representation aimed at protecting vocational entitlement wherever possible.

A driver conduct hearing is a regulatory hearing convened by the Traffic Commissioner to consider whether a driver remains fit to hold a vocational entitlement. The hearing may also examine whether conduct reflects adversely on good repute.

Driver conduct hearings commonly arise following:

• Drivers' hours or tachograph offences

• Road traffic convictions or fixed penalties

• Allegations of falsification or manipulation of records

• Repeated roadside enforcement action

• Serious incidents or safety-related concerns

• Reports from DVSA or the police

• Medical or fitness-related concerns

Although less formal than a court, these hearings are serious and outcomes can be career changing.

Driver conduct proceedings can involve:

• HGV drivers

• PSV drivers

• Drivers holding multiple vocational categories

• Drivers employed by operators or working on an agency basis

The regulatory focus is on individual conduct, but outcomes may also affect employment and future opportunities.

While each case turns on its own facts, the process typically involves:

• Receipt of a call-up letter outlining concerns

• Disclosure of evidence and reports

• Preparation of written representations and supporting material

• Attendance at the hearing before the Traffic Commissioner

• Questioning on conduct, insight and compliance

• A written decision issued after the hearing

Preparation and presentation are central to the outcome.

Early preparation is critical. I assist drivers by:

• Reviewing the call-up letter and evidence

• Advising on regulatory risk and potential outcomes

• Helping drivers understand the process and expectations

• Preparing written representations and statements

• Addressing mitigation, training and corrective action

• Advising on insight, responsibility and future compliance

The aim is to present a balanced, credible account that demonstrates understanding and a commitment to compliance.

At the hearing itself, I provide representation focused on protecting vocational entitlement and ensuring fairness. This includes:

• Presenting submissions on behalf of the driver

• Responding to concerns raised by the Traffic Commissioner

• Managing questioning and evidence

• Ensuring proportionality and procedural fairness

• Making submissions on outcome and duration where sanctions are considered

The way a driver presents and answers questions can have a significant impact on the decision.

Possible outcomes include:

• No further action

• Formal warning or advice

• Suspension of vocational entitlement

• Revocation of vocational entitlement

• Disqualification for a specified period

• Directions relating to training or future compliance

Where appropriate, I also advise on appeal rights and next steps.

You should consider taking advice as soon as possible if:

• You receive a driver conduct hearing call-up letter

• DVSA or the police have referred matters to the Traffic Commissioner

• You are unsure how to prepare statements or evidence

• You are concerned about losing your vocational licence

• You want support navigating the process and hearing

Leaving matters too late can significantly increase risk.