Chapter 1: What is Professional Competence for Transport?
Professional Competence, historically known as the "Haulage License," is the certification that accredits an individual's knowledge to manage a road transport company. In 2026, this role is formally titled the **Transport Manager**, and they are the pillar upon which the legal responsibility of the fleet rests.
Without a Transport Manager holding a valid certificate, a company cannot obtain or renew its transport authorization (operator's license). This qualification is indispensable for both public hire and reward transport and for operating as a transport agent or freight forwarder.
Chapter 2: Requirements to Access the Exam in 2026
Since the latest regulatory reforms, academic requirements have tightened to further professionalize the sector. To sit the professional competence exam for freight, applicants must meet at least one of the following educational levels:
- High School Diploma (Bachiller) or equivalent.
- Higher Technical Degree (Vocational Training).
- University Degree.
Beyond academic background, the applicant must maintain the "Good Repute" (honorability) requirement. A previous loss of repute due to sanctions listed in the sanctions scale could disqualify someone from obtaining the title until official rehabilitation is granted.
Chapter 3: Structure of the Transport Manager Exam
The exam has evolved from an annual paper-based test into a system of permanent electronic examinations managed by regional authorities.
3.1. Part One: Theoretical Test
This consists of 200 multiple-choice questions with four alternative answers. It covers areas such as commercial law, taxation, business and technical management, and road safety. Mastering the regulations in the new 2026 transport laws is fundamental.
3.2. Part Two: Case Studies
The applicant must solve four practical scenarios requiring calculations and legal reasoning. Many of these scenarios focus on managing driving and rest times, where knowledge of the ferry rule or calculating work shifts is decisive for passing.
Chapter 4: Key Syllabus: Tachograph and Risk Management
A modern Transport Manager must not only know the law but also know how to apply it using technological tools. The exam demands deep knowledge regarding the download and legal custody of tachograph files.
At TachoTools, we believe that training for this qualification should be accompanied by practical learning on how to perform a preventive data audit, as the manager is ultimately responsible if the company incurs serious infringements.
Chapter 5: European Validity and Professional Practice
The qualification obtained is valid throughout the European Union. The Transport Manager can perform their function "internally" (as the owner or a full-time employee) or "externally" under specific conditions of link and responsibility.
It is vital to remember that if a manager loses their personal repute due to poor fleet management, the qualification is suspended, forcing the company into a process of recovering professional repute.
Chapter 6: Conclusion: The Key to the Logistics Business
Obtaining the Certificate of Professional Competence is the most significant challenge for any entrepreneur in the transport sector. It is an investment in knowledge that, supported by solutions like the TachoTools software, ensures safe, legal, and profitable business management.