Transport service licence
16-1 TSL
Mandatory requirement
1. The operator of a vehicle that requires a transport service licence (Table 16-1-1) has not notified (Note 2) the vehicle inspector of the transport service licence number under which the vehicle is operated.
Note 1
If correctly licensed, a vehicle requiring a transport service licence can be identified by the âTâ or âLâ on the vehicle licence label.
Note 2
Every vehicle that operates in a goods service or vehicle recovery service must display a TSL label that identifies the TSL number the vehicle is presently operated under (see Figure 16-1-1). For CoF purposes, the vehicle inspector must record the number on the TSL label. Where there is no TSL label, or for a rental vehicle, the KSDP is expected to make a reasonable effort to request the TSL number from the driver. The TSL number must be entered into the system when the inspection is recorded, but where a TSL number cannot be obtained, fault code VLP must be entered.
Table 16-1-1. Requirements for transport service licences
|
Vehicles that require |
Vehicles that do not require |
|---|---|
|
Goods service licence: |
|
|
Heavy vehicles with a GVM of 6000 kg or more and capable of carrying goods |
Vehicle recovery service vehicle. Vehicles running on tracks and rollers. Vehicles that operate solely in areas to which the public does not have right of access. Vehicles used as places of abode that are not used in a rental service (eg motorhomes and dual-purpose motorhomes carrying horses where at least 50% of the floor space is constructed for human accommodation (this includes dedicated tractor and semi-trailer motorhomes)). A zero emission vehicle with a gross vehicle mass that not exceeding 7500kg. Vehicles listed as farm vehicles (ie exempt class B licence). Vehicles used by registered traders to carry goods for demonstration and sale purposes. Tractors and traction engines. Forklifts. Hearses. Mobile cranes. Fire engines. Mobile machines. |
|
Vehicle recovery service licence: |
|
|
Vehicle recovery service vehicles (ie designed or adapted for the purpose of towing or carrying motor vehicles for hire or reward) |
Recovery vehicles of the New Zealand Defence Force |
|
Rental service licence: |
|
|
Rental vehicles |
|
Figure 16-1-1. Sample TSL label
Summary of legislation
Applicable legislation
Mandatory requirement
Business details
1. No certificate of fitness shall be issued in respect of any transport service vehicle unless the vehicle inspector has been notified of the transport service licence number under which the vehicle is being operated.
Page amended 13 August 2026 (see amendment details).