Journeys in private hire vehicles can only be taken if they are pre-booked directly with a licensed private hire operator. Private hire vehicles cannot pick up directly off the street or ply or stand for hire.
We do not regulate private hire fares and these should be agreed in advance of a journey starting.
Private hire vehicles have a yellow rear identification plate and must bear a door sign showing 'Private Hire Vehicle'. Inside the vehicle there may be a meter and an internal plate displaying the vehicle details and licence expiry date. The driver will also be wearing an identification badge.
Apply for a private hire vehicle licence
Before buying a vehicle, you should read our vehicle type conditions on the taxi licensing policy and satisfy yourself that the vehicle meets the criteria. It is your responsibility to ensure the vehicle meets these standards.
You should then contact us on 01772 625625 to arrange a new vehicle inspection and gather the following documents:
- insurance certificate, showing the vehicle is insured for public hire
- V5 logbook. If the full logbook has not yet been received, the V5C (green slip) is acceptable and you should provide the full logbook once received
- if only the V5C has been provided, a bill of sale, invoice or receipt
- original evidence of a Roadworthiness Test Certificate issued within the last 4 weeks that confirms the vehicle is fit. View our roadworthy checklist.
- completed online application
- the fee.
A vehicle will not be licensed if it is licensed by another council.
The vehicle should be presented at the appointment where it will be inspected by an authorised officer. As long as the vehicle passes this inspection, you can then submit the application and pay the licence fee. You will be given a unique number at this appointment to book an MOT and Taxi Test Inspection with one of our authorised garages.
Once the licence has been granted, you will be contacted and informed that the plate and associated documents can be collected from the offices.
You should read our hackney carriage and private hire licensing policy for full details of the application process.
Application forms
Private hire vehicle licence - new application
Private hire vehicle licence - renewal application
Vehicle licence fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Private hire vehicle - new application (6 months licence) | £135 |
| Private hire vehicle - renewal application (6 months licence) | £110 |
| Replacement external plate | £25 (each) |
| Replacement internal plate | £15 |
| Door stickers | £5 (for 2) |
| Transfer to new proprietor | £50 |
| Change of vehicle | £70 |
Renew a private hire vehicle licence
If you want to renew your licence, you should gather the following documents and contact us by calling 01772 625625 to arrange a vehicle renewal appointment.
- insurance certificate, showing the vehicle is insured for public hire
- V5 logbook. If the full logbook has not yet been received, the V5C (green slip) is acceptable and you should provide the full logbook once received
- if only the V5C has been provided, a bill of sale, invoice or receipt
- original evidence of a Roadworthiness Test Certificate issued within the last 4 weeks that confirms the vehicle is fit. View our roadworthy checklist.
- completed online application
- the fee.
Once the licence has been granted, you will be contacted and informed that the plate and associated documents can be collected from the offices.