Q I understand that if I buy a vehicle capable of
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being operated at over 7.38 tons gross then I must have an hgv licence. If I buy this vehicle with the intention of operating it below this gross weight can I have it plated at, say, 7 tons gross to avoid the need for any hgv licence?
ANo, the vehicle will be
plated by the manufacturer's design weight standard providing the tyres conform to the recommended size and type for that standard. You have no discretion in the matter of the gross weight at which you wish to operate it. If it is a new vehicle, then it will not need plating for the first 12 months of its operation and the manufacturer's design weight applies. If it is second-hand, then the existing plate will apply and unless you downrate the tyres and apply for replating, it is the present plated weight which will establish the need for an hgv driver's licence.