Taxi and private hire licences

Get a licence to drive a taxi or private hire vehicle, or run a private hire company.

Taxis (hackney carriages) can pick up people who hail them in the street. Private hire vehicles must be booked in advance through a licensed operator.

Driver's licence

To get a driver's licence, you need:

  • to have held a full driving licence for at least 12 months
  • an enhanced DBS check
  • a medical from your doctor
  • to pass our knowledge test and safeguarding training

A driver's licence costs £245 and lasts 3 years.

Vehicle and operator licences

Every taxi and private hire vehicle needs its own vehicle licence. A private hire operator needs an operator licence.

Apply or renew

Apply for a taxi or private hire licence

What happens next

It usually takes 8 to 12 weeks to get a new driver's licence, mostly waiting for the DBS check. Renew at least 6 weeks before your licence runs out.

Report a problem with a taxi

Note the licence number on the vehicle's plate or the driver's badge. Report a problem with a taxi or driver.