DVLA Proposes a Red Light for Rogue Parking Operators

The DVLA is looking to establish the views of interested parties on the proposal, which states that all* parking companies requesting information both manually and electronically from the vehicle record must be a member of a DVLA Accredited Trade Association (ATA), and abide by an enforceable Code of Practice.

Patrick Troy, Chief Executive of the British Parking Association (BPA), which is currently the only DVLA Accredited Trade Association in the parking industry, said: The BPA has been an Accredited Trade Association since October 2007, and since then we have seen industry standards improve. Members of our Approved Operator Scheme (AOS) must comply with a Code of Practice which drives standards still higher to protect car park users. By demonstrating these higher standards members of our Scheme can electronically access keeper details from the DVLA.

In an industry where rogue operators capitalise on loopholes, and continue questionable practices, we strongly welcome the DVLAs consultation to restrict all access to information to Accredited Trade Association member companies. Working with the DVLA, we are helping to stamp out anyone who wants to operate in this way. In creating a fairer environment for motorists, the only way forward is to make life difficult for the cowboys, and this proposal delivers just that.