Driving licences

To become either a Private Hire or Hackney Carriage driver all applicants must be considered "fit and proper" and a criminal records bureau check is carried out on each applicant. Hackney Carriage drivers may also drive Private Hire vehicles. Private Hire drivers cannot drive Hackney Carriages.

The Council has amended the lifespan of these licences, and all new applications will be for 3 year licences.

In addition, all new applicants will be require to undergo a full medical, and produce the medical report. Applicants are advised that the medical form needs to be completed. This form can be downloaded here or is obtainable from the licensing section or from the contact centre on 01509 634562.

Hackney Carriages

Hackney carriages are the vehicles that are found at taxi ranks and the railway station. Hackney carriage vehicle licences are issued to vehicles once the vehicles have passed a complaince test.The licence allows the vehicle to be used for plying for hire.

Hackney Carriage Drivers Licence

These are issued to the drivers of Hackney carriages after they have passed a local knowledge test

Private Hire Cars

These are hire vehicles which must be pre-booked. They must also pass a compliance test and the licence allows the vehicle to be used for hire and reward.

Private Hire Drivers Licence

Again the drivers of private hire vehicles must hold a Private Hire Licence.

Medical Forms