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 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 hired then a hire purchased 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
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