Apply for a new taxi or private hire driver licence

Find out how to apply for a new hackney carriage or private hire driver licence

Who can apply

You can apply to become a taxi driver if:

• you’re over 18 years old
• you’ve held a full DVLA driving licence for at least 12 months.

How to apply

Before you apply you should read the hackney carriage and private hire licence conditions and Fit and Proper Person Policy in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy (pdf, 1.2MB) (opens new window) .

Download and fill in the application form.

Driver's application form (word doc, 172KB) (opens new window) .

You'll need

You need to send the following with your completed application form:

• Medical Examination report
• three forms of identification (such as your passport, birth certificate, a utility bill or bank statement)
• photocard driving licence or, if you got your driving licence before 1998, the paper driving licence
• Enhanced DBS application form and  signed DBS Privacy Policy declaration
• DVLA mandate
• DSA pass certificate
• Knowledge Test training certificate
• BTEC Introduction to the role of the professional taxi and private hire driver (L2) certificate
• payment
• evidence of your right to work in the UK

We need at least 10 working days to process your application.

If you want someone else to discuss your application or licence with us on your behalf, you’ll need to give us written permission.

How much it costs

The cost of a one year licence is £56.

You’ll also need to pay a £20 application fee.

There are additional fees for the various checks and tests you need to complete.

See our full list of fees (pdf, 105 KB) (opens new window) (pdf, 190KB) (opens new window)

How long it lasts

New drivers will be issued with a one-year licence to begin with. You’ll have the option to choose a longer licence after your first one has expired.

Criminal and driving convictions

If you’ve a criminal conviction or DVLA points you should read the hackney carriage and private hire vehicles licensing of individuals guidelines relating to the relevance of criminal behaviour in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy (pdf, 1.2MB) (opens new window) before you apply.

Your application might need to go to committee before a decision can be made.

Checks and tests

Find out about:

• DBS, DVLA and medical checks.
• the Knowledge Test and other tests and assessments.
• the right to licence check to show that you have the right to remain and work in the UK.