Private Hire Vehicle Licence
Private Hire Vehicles cannot ply for hire in the street or at taxi ranks. Journeys must be pre-booked, normally by phone or in person at a cab office. Failure to do so is an offence and invalidates the vehicle's insurance cover. Fares for private hire vehicles are not regulated by the Council - the cost of a journey will normally be based on a rate per mile or should be agreed with the company before the journey.
Private Hire Vehicles licensed by the Council must display a blue plate on the rear and a smaller internal plate. Roof signs are not permitted. Private Hire drivers must also wear an ID badge issued by the Council, which includes his/her photograph.
There are many different laws affecting proprietors and vehicles but the main Act of Parliament covering the licensing of Private Hire Vehicles is Part II of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.
Vehicles to be licensed must be mechanically suitable. The mechanical condition is to be conformed by a detailed inspection undertaken at the expense of the proprietor at the Council's depot in Bar End.
Your car must be;insured for private hire work.
Throughout your application, you must be honest in supplying information to us and must not, under any circumstances, make a false statement at any time to obtain your vehicle licence. This is a serious offence.
Technical specifications for private hire vehicles
There are many different makes and styles of vehicle on the road today. Not all vehicles would be suitable for use as a private hire vehicle and the Council will assess your vehicle to decide whether or not it is suitable for use as a private hire vehicle.
What information must you provide to us?
To help us consider your application it is our policy for you to show us:
- that the proprietor (or company) making the application has an operating base within the City Council's area.
- that the proprietor making the application holds a private hire driver's licence issued by this authority.
You will also need to produce the following documents:
- vehicle registration document - we cannot process your application without seeing this document.
- MOT Certificate (if applicable).
- policy or cover note of insurance covering the vehicle for "public and/or private use" for you and/or your drivers.
- that your vehicle is mechanically suitable. Your vehicle must pass an inspection carried out by a qualified mechanic (see legal requirements). The vehicle will also be subject to a visual inspection carried out by an authorised Licensing Officer of the Council.
- that you have an efficient and approved fire extinguisher suitable for use on motor vehicles.
- that the appropriate fee is paid (details on request).
A copy of the relevant legislation can be viewed at the Council Offices where you can also obtain an application form and a copy of our standard conditions.
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