Apply for a private hire operator licence

You need a private hire operator's licence to take bookings for private hire vehicles. Licences are usually granted for 5 years.

If your vehicle can carry up to eight passengers, you need a private operator's licence.  Anything above eight seats requires the licence to be obtained from Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) (opens new window)

Please read our updated taxi policy 2021 (PDF, 1 MB) before starting your application.

We offer pre-application advice on this licence.

Before you apply

To apply for a private hire operator's licence, you must be able to show:

• you must also be a 'fit and proper person' - which means your background and character will be checked. We may carry out an enhanced criminal records check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
• you have Planning and building control or a certificate of lawful use for your operating base
• if your operating base is open to the public you must have public liability insurance for the premises
• the name of your business does not include the word 'taxis' or 'cabs'

Fees

Private Hire Operator's Licence (new/renew) - £2,378.72

Apply for a licence

To apply for a private hire operator's licence, follow these steps:

• complete the Private hire operator licence application form (PDF, 431 KB)
• the correct fee payable by credit or debit card
• provide photo I.D for each applicant. We will only accept a passport or DVLA driver's licence
• provide a basic DBS check certificate (opens new window) issued within the last three months for each applicant
• provide a list of vehicles and drivers that you will be operating
• proof of right to live and work in the UK for each person named on the application