You must get a licence for each vehicle. The vehicle must have no more than 8 passenger seats. Inspections and insurance The licensing authority may check your vehicle to make sure: it’s roadworthy it’s comfortable and clean the taximeter (if it has one) works properly the doors are safe and secure You’ll also need insurance that: covers you for public or private taxi hire includes you as the named driver A vehicle licence is usually issued for one year. During this time, the licensing authority can inspect your vehicle up to 3 times. You must fix any problems within 2 months of failing an inspection. Requirements and conditions The licensing authority can attach conditions to vehicle licences. These might include: the colour scheme of your vehicle the use of roof signs use of a taximeter If you plan to use your vehicle as a private hire vehicle ( PHV ), your vehicle must also: not look like a licensed taxi, for example a London-style ‘black cab’ display licence discs or plates - although exemptions are sometimes granted Additional requirements for London If you plan to work in London, your taxi or PHV must meet the Transport for London ( TfL ) eligibility requirements . You must also only display advertising that complies with TfL guidelines .

Apply to the licensing authority where you plan to work. If it’s outside of London, contact your local council . In London, there are different ways to: apply for a taxi vehicle licence apply for a private hire vehicle ( PHV ) licence If your application is refused The licensing authority can refuse your application if: your vehicle does not meet certain criteria you do not accept conditions it gives you it wants to control the number of taxis in the area When the licensing authority makes its decision it will explain your right to appeal if: your application for a vehicle licence has been refused the licensing authority has suspended, revoked or refused to renew a vehicle licence You can appeal to a crown court about a taxi licence decision or to a magistrates’ court about a private hire vehicle decision. You might need legal advice . Renew your licence Ask the licensing authority how to renew your vehicle licence. You can be prosecuted if you use a vehicle as a taxi or PHV after the vehicle licence has expired.

Vehicle licences for taxis or private hire vehicles

Overview

If your vehicle is being used as a taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV) you need to get it licensed.

You can be prosecuted if you drive a vehicle as a taxi or PHV without a vehicle licence.

A PHV can only be pre-booked. Taxis can also be hired at a rank or hailed in the street.

Your vehicle must be licensed by the same authority who issued the taxi or PHV driver licence. This is either:

your local council if the vehicle will be used outside of London
Transport for London (TfL) if the vehicle will be used in London

There is a different process for licences in Northern Ireland and licences in Scotland.

View a printable version of the whole guide

Vehicle licences for taxis or private hire vehicles

Overview

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Vehicle licences for taxis or private hire vehicles

Overview

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