To apply
To apply for a licence, or change details of your current licence, please use our Hackney Carriage vehicle licence form [PDF] (137k).
Hackney carriages or taxis are vehicles that can be hailed from the street by the public. They must not be confused with private hire vehicles (sometimes called mini-cabs) which have to be pre-booked.
Legislation applicable to hackney carriage licensing
- Town Police Clauses Act 1847
- Town Police Clauses Act 1889
- Public Health Act 1875
- Local Government (Miscellaneous provisions) Act 1976
Vehicle conditions
Licences for Hackney carriages will only be granted to vehicles that meet the eligibility criteria. These are the current vehicle conditions [PDF] (53k).
Evidence required at application
- A valid certificate of insurance covering the passenger for hire and reward and also third party risks must be produced
- Vehicle registration document V5 (necessary to prove the details of the vehicle) or new owner tear off slip
- Proof of ownership (Bill of Sale) - not required for renewals.
- If on hire purchase the hire purchase agreement is required
- MOT test certificate (required when 12 months old)
- HPI report (for vehicles that are pre-owned) - not required for renewals
- European whole vehicle type approval certificate
- Vehicle inspection form. You can book your vehicle in online to Woking Road Depot
The current byelaws [PDF] (56k) apply once the applicant is a licence holder.
For the current cost of a licence, see the hackney carriage and private hire fees and charges information. There are several way to pay for your licence.
Appeals process
If an application for a Hackney Carriage Vehicle Licence is refused the applicants have the right to appeal to the Crown Court.
Please contact the Licensing Team for further information:
Licensing Team
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
Surrey
GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444371
Email: licensing@guildford.gov.uk