Licence - Private Hire Vehicle

A Private Hire Vehicle must not be used to ply for hire, or stand at any taxi rank.  It can only be used for pre-booked hirings.  Fares for private hire vehicles are not regulated by the Council - the cost of a journey will normally be based on a rate per mile or should be agreed with the company before the journey.

Private Hire Vehicles are not permitted to display the words 'TAXI' or 'CAB', nor are roof signs allowed.  Private Hire drivers must also wear an ID badge issued by the Council, which includes his/her photograph.

There is no restriction on the make or colour of vehicle, but for vehicles licensed after 10 May 2005, there is a ten year age limit.  This does not apply to vehicles licensed prior to that date.

The applicant for the grant or renewal of a Private Hire Vehicle Licence must produce to the Council the following:

• the completed application form,
• the licence fee £95.00 (2008/09)
• the vehicle test fee of £47.00 (2008/09)
• the licence plate issue fee £22.00 (2008/09)
• the licence plate deposit fee for new vehicles £35.00 (2008/09)
• the DVLA Registration Documentation/Vehicle 'Log Book'
• a Certificate of Insurance or Cover Note appropriate to the use of the vehicle for public or private hire,
• in respect of a vehicle over 3 years old, a valid MOT certificate, and
• a valid road fund licence.

A licence plate is issued for fixing securely to the outside of the rear of the vehicle.  The licence plate is the property of the Council and must be returned when a licence is revoked or terminated.

Related Documents

Application for Taxi/Private Hire Vehicle

Taxi/Private Hire fees 2008/09