Hackney carriage and private hire vehicle licences

A hackney carriage must -

  • hold an M1 European Whole Vehicle Type Approval Certificate
  • hold an M1 National Level Low Volume Type Approval Certificate
  • be in a manufacturer's single standard factory colour
  • be fitted with a calendar-controlled meter
  • be no more than 10 years old from the date of first registration

Once licensed, a vehicle can be renewed until it is no more than 14 years old.

How to apply

You can download our application pack and guidance through the button below. This download page also includes the -

  • medical exemption report
  • taxi licensing policy
  • taxi licensing handbook
  • private hire vehicle minimum dimensions
  • compliance test requirements

Application forms and guidance

Use the form below to submit a query regarding a Hackney Carriage Vehicle licence.

Licence and permit queries (opens in new window)

Use the form below to submit a Replacement Vehicle application.

Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Replacement Vehicle (opens in new window)

Use the form below to submit a Vehicle Grant application.

Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Grant (opens in new window)

To apply for transfer of ownership follow the button below to download the the form.

Transfer ownership of a private hire or hackney carriage