FTA is urging the Government to rethink its approach to licence checking after it today replaced the paper counterpart to the driving licence with an online service.
The abolition of the paper counterpart means endorsements will no longer be recorded on the paper part of the licence, therefore the only way an employer is able to make a check is by contacting the DVLA, says FTA.
Despite continued requests that this information be made available through the online systems, DVLA has failed to provide a facility other than a telephone number which is available only during working hours, it adds.
To check if a driver has the correct licence, the driver himself must first request an access code from DVLA, which remains active for only 72 hours.
This is then provided to the employer, who uses the online service to make the check.
If checks can’t be done online, the driver can call DVLA to give permission for a check and the employer then uses a premium rate number to follow up.
Checking non-GB licences cannot be done on the same system – checks have to be made on a premium rate phone line during normal office hours.
Ian Gallagher, FTA’s lead on DVLA, said: “This is completely unacceptable. DVLA has had fair warning of this requirement and will mean that some non UK drivers reporting for work will be sent home if their licence details can’t be verified, this information must be made available on the proposed checking systems at the earliest opportunity."
The association is urging DVLA and the Government to rethink its approach to licence checking and introduce a system that provides an employer with mandated authority from the driver to check licence details as and when required in bulk and free of charge.
Gallagher added: “We want to ensure all our members are ready for the switch to online checking and know exactly what to do.
“Far from reducing the burden, FTA believes this new system will be more cumbersome for employers.
“FTA members who employ hundreds if not thousands of drivers have complained to us that the proposed system adds time to the licence checking process forcing many to look for a cost alternative.’’
The Association is disappointed that, despite prolonged dialogue, DVLA has failed to develop a suitable online alternative which would provide an employer with the ability to check driver details in bulk, instead relying on a system which requires the licence holder to go online obtain a PDF or access code and provide that to their employer within 72 hours.
To help fleets manage the switch, the Freight Transport Association has provided a comprehensive briefing for members on its website www.fta.co.uk.
Pol_Sweeney - 09/06/2015 14:09
While the abolition of the paper counterpart may cause short term disruption for some, having the ability to automatically and routinely check drivers licence details online with DVLA should be welcomed as an opportunity to not only ensure compliance, but also to improve overall customer experience and increase operational efficiency. By utilising the latest licence verification software, companies can automatically and routinely check the status of a driver’s license, including points. This not only saves time but avoids the risk of out of date information, an associated issue of the now redundant paper licence counterpart. With up to date, accurate information, a company can rapidly assess the level of risk it is carrying based on overall driver endorsements and the potential impact on insurance. For those drivers with more points and therefore a greater risk profile, the company can instigate more frequent checks, ensuring compliance is maintained at all times. Moreover, with confidence that compliance is ensured, it is far easier for organisations to optimise journeys and meet customer demands. Dynamic appointments can be offered, reservations met and the entire customer experience enhanced with no fear of accidentally pushing the limits - and paying the price. Pól Sweeney, Vice President Sales, Descartes Systems UK