A guide to the UK vehicle livery regulations

Vehicle livery is a highly effective way of promoting a business.

However, there are regulations governing it that you must be aware of – mostly concerning advertising standards, visibility and safety. We have, therefore, created this guide to outline the main regulations.

Chapter 8

This is a chapter in the Traffic Signs Manual from the Department for Transport. It requires vehicles that perform business operations at roadsides – think recovery, utilities or maintenance firms – to have high visibility livery added to them for reasons of road safety.

Advertising Standards

There is nothing wrong with advertising your company using livery on the sides of the vehicle, but there are some rules that must be obeyed.

For safety reasons, it cannot block the view of the road for the driver or act as a distraction for other motorists. It also must meet Advertising Standards Authority guidelines, which include a ban on misleading or offensive livery.

Reflective Materials

All vehicles of more than 7.5 tonnes need to have materials that are reflective added to the back and sides. That is to make them easier for other drivers to see at night.

Type Approval

This is a form of certification indicating that the livery added to a business vehicle complies with current regulatory standards. If you do not get this certification, and your livery does not comply with those standards, the result can be a fine or some other form of penalty.

At Ainsley Signs, we provide quality vehicle graphics in Manchester that meet all regulatory requirements to the full. Reach out today for a quote.