Apply for or renew a private hire vehicle licence

• private hire vehicles may only be booked in advance
• they are identified by signs on the side of the vehicle, giving details of their licence number, and a red licence plate on the rear
• vehicles must not be the same colour as a Hackney Carriage, or have a roof sign
• fares should be agreed at the time of booking
• a taximeter may be used
• CCTV in licensed vehicles (from April 2023)
• emissions standards for licensed vehicles
• a suitability test for vehicle proprietors
• a transparent policy on executive hires

Licences for PHVs will only be granted to vehicles that meet the requirements. Please read our  updated taxi policy 2021 (PDF) [1MB] before starting your application.

Once the vehicle is licensed as a private hire vehicle, it may only be driven by a driver holding either a private hire drivers licence or a dual Hackney Carriage/private hire driver's licence issued by the council, even when the vehicle is off duty. 

The vehicle must also maintain its appearance as a private hire vehicle, including displaying any signage and plate.

We offer pre-application advice on this licence.

Fees