Last Modified February 14, 2013
If you want to drive a private hire or hackney carriage vehicle you need a licence. Before being granted a licence, you need the following:
Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS Check)
You need to pay the Disclosure & Barring Service Disclosure (DBS) to conduct an enhanced level check.
You must provide a current passport, driving licence (if photo card type the counterpart must be produced) and at least two other documents for proof of identity.
The formal application process does not start until/unless a favourable reply has been received from the DBS.
More information is available in the Guidelines Booklet for Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Driver and Vehicle applicants and at the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS).
Medical examination
A certificate of fitness must be completed and signed by your own GP.
The certificate needs to be completed on:
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The first licence application
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Every five years after the first application up to your 65th birthday and every two years thereafter.
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At other times when required/requested, eg after a medical operation or prolonged period of ill health.
Knowledge tests
New applicants must undergo and pass a knowledge test before a driver licence can be granted. You must get 15 of the 20 route-type questions correct and eight out of 10 Highway Code questions correct. We recommend you sit the knowledge test soon after you have given in your application.
Driving tests
New applicants must pass a Driving Standards Agency (DSA) driving test. Further information and fees of this test are available on request or by visiting DSA website.
Driving Licence
You must have held a full UK driving licence for at least 12 months.
Photographs
You must provide four colour passport photographs.
Read our guidance information and complete our application form: