Part 1: Regulatory scheme for automated vehicles Chapter 2: Licensing of operators for vehicle use without user-in-charge Section 13: Further provision about operator licensing
Section 13 sets out further details in relation to operator licensing regulations. Regulations may be made in relation to the granting, variation, renewal, expiry, suspension or withdrawal of a license (subsection (2)). Regulations may also cover the detailed requirements for a license application as well as for: the fees for application or renewal of licenses; the notification of decisions; and appeals against decisions (subsection (3)). Regulations may also include conditions that a licensed operator must comply with (subsection (4)).
	Section 13(3)(e) enables the Secretary of State to confer operator licensing functions on the Traffic Commissioners. Traffic Commissioners have responsibility for the licensing and regulation of those who operate conventional heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches, and the registration of local bus services. They are appointed by the Secretary of State and operate at arm’s length from the Department for Transport as independent regulators. The provision in this section is intended to give the Secretary of State the flexibility to align the regulation of licensed operators of authorised automated vehicles with that of conventional vehicles, should this be considered appropriate. Additionally, paragraph 8 of Schedule 1 enables the Secretary of State to transfer the power to impose civil sanctions to the Traffic Commissioners.