Transport Compliance Audits
Protect your operator licence with an independent DVSA-approved audit
Whether you're preparing for a DVSA inspection, facing a public inquiry, or want to achieve Earned Recognition status, our compliance audits give you a clear picture of where you stand and what needs attention.
Available UK-wide | Detailed written report within 7 days
Why Operators Book a Compliance Audit
Most transport operators contact us for one of three reasons:
Worried about a DVSA visit? If it's been a while since your last inspection—or you've had driver or vehicle issues—an independent audit shows exactly where you're vulnerable before the Traffic Commissioner sees it.
Called to a Public Inquiry? Arriving with a professional audit report and action plan demonstrates to the Traffic Commissioner that you're taking compliance seriously. It can make a significant difference to the outcome.
Want to reduce roadside checks? Achieving DVSA Earned Recognition status means fewer inspections and stops for your vehicles. Our audit assesses your eligibility and creates a clear pathway to accreditation.
What We Check
Our audits are comprehensive and follow DVSA auditing standards. We examine:
Operator Licence Compliance Are you operating within your licence conditions? Do you have the right authorisation for your vehicles and operating centres?
Maintenance Systems PMI schedules, defect reporting, workshop records, brake test results, tachograph calibration, MOT history.
Drivers' Hours & Tachographs Working time compliance, infringement patterns, card downloads, driver debriefing procedures.
Driver Management Licence checks, CPC training records, medical fitness, induction and ongoing training.
Documentation & Record Keeping Are your systems robust enough to withstand DVSA scrutiny? We check what's there and what's missing.
Transport Manager Oversight Evidence of continuous and effective management of transport operations.
Our Audit Services
Compliance Health Check
A comprehensive review of your transport operation against DVSA standards and Traffic Commissioner requirements. Ideal if you want an independent assessment of where you stand, haven't had a DVSA visit recently, or simply want peace of mind. You'll receive a detailed report highlighting compliance gaps and practical recommendations.
Pricing (based on fleet size):
1–3 vehicles: From £600 + VAT
4–8 vehicles: From £750 + VAT
8–12 vehicles: From £900 + VAT
12+ vehicles: Contact us for a quotation
Travel may be charged depending on location.
Public Inquiry Preparation Audit
From £750 + VAT
If you've been called to a Public Inquiry, this audit focuses on the specific concerns raised by the Traffic Commissioner. We provide a structured report and action plan that demonstrates your commitment to putting things right—evidence that can support your case.
Best for: Operators facing regulatory action or licence review
Earned Recognition Audit
Price on application
For operators seeking DVSA Earned Recognition status, we assess your operation against the scheme's key performance indicators. We'll identify any gaps and create a roadmap to accreditation, helping you access benefits like fewer roadside inspections and enhanced reputation.
Best for: Established operators wanting reduced DVSA intervention
How It Works
1. Initial Discussion We talk through your situation and any specific concerns. No obligation.
2. On-Site Audit Depending on your operation, we review your systems, documentation, and processes. Most audits take half a day to a full day.
3. Detailed Report Within 7 days, you receive a written report covering findings, risk areas, and prioritised recommendations.
4. Follow-Up Support We're available to answer questions and can provide ongoing support if needed.
Why Choose MDR Training
DVSA Approved Auditor We're recognised by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, so you know the audit meets official standards.
ISO Accredited Our quality management systems are independently certified, and our auditors hold ISO-approved qualifications.
Practical Transport Experience We're not just auditors. We run Transport Manager CPC courses and work with operators daily, so we understand the real-world pressures you face.
Clear, Actionable Reports No jargon. You'll know exactly what needs attention and how to fix it.
UK-Wide Coverage Based in the East Midlands, we carry out audits across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a transport compliance audit cost?
Our Compliance Health Check is priced based on fleet size: 1–3 vehicles from £600 + VAT, 4–8 vehicles from £750 + VAT, and 8–12 vehicles from £900 + VAT. For fleets of 12 or more vehicles, contact us for a tailored quotation. Public Inquiry preparation audits start from £750 + VAT. Earned Recognition audits are priced on application.
How long does an audit take?
Most audits take between half a day and a full day on-site, depending on your fleet size and the scope of the audit.
Will you find problems?
Possibly—and that's the point. It's far better to identify and fix issues before a DVSA examiner or Traffic Commissioner does. Our role is to help you improve, not to catch you out.
Can you help us prepare for a Public Inquiry?
Yes. A professional audit and action plan can demonstrate to the Traffic Commissioner that you're committed to compliance. We've helped operators present evidence that has contributed to positive outcomes.
What's the difference between a compliance audit and Earned Recognition?
A compliance audit is a one-off assessment of your operation. Earned Recognition is an ongoing DVSA scheme where accredited operators benefit from reduced roadside checks in exchange for sharing performance data. Our audits can assess your readiness for either.
Do you audit both HGV and PSV operators?
Yes, we work with goods vehicle operators (O-licence holders) and passenger transport operators across the UK.
How quickly can you carry out an audit?
We can usually arrange an audit within 1–2 weeks. For urgent situations like Public Inquiry preparation, we prioritise accordingly.
Request Your Audit
Whether you need a routine compliance check or urgent support before a Public Inquiry, we're here to help.
Call us on 01530 834 554 or complete the form below and we'll get back to you within one working day.