Information and application forms to License a Private Hire Vehicle

To license a vehicle as a Private Hire Vehicle

• The engine capacity of the vehicle must be not than less 1600 cc.
• The width at the front edge of the rear seat must be not less than 48 inches.
• The vehicle must be insured to undertake private hire.
• When first licensed the vehicle must not be over three years old (licences will normally only be renewed in respect of vehicles that are five years old or less).
• The vehicle has to undergo a mechanical examination at a Council approved garage and must be provided with a certificate indicating that it is suitable for use as a Private Hire Vehicle.
• Vehicles licensed, as private hire vehicles must have a MOT certificate once the age of the vehicle is over three years old.

In order to obtain a licence an application must be submitted to the Council. Provided all the documentation is in order, and the applicant has paid the licence fee and a deposit on the plate, the licence will be issued.

If a taximeter is fitted in the vehicle, it must be capable of complying with licence conditions and registering a fare scale approved by the Council. The Vehicle must be booked in at the Council to enable the taximeter to be tested and sealed before a plate is issued.