Vehicle licences for taxis or private hire vehicles
Eligibility
You must get a licence for each vehicle. The vehicle must have no more than 8 passenger seats.
Inspections and insurance
The licensing authority may check your vehicle to make sure:
- it鈥檚 roadworthy
- it鈥檚 comfortable and clean
- the taximeter (if it has one) works properly
- the doors are safe and secure
You鈥檒l also need insurance that:
- covers you for public or private taxi hire
- includes you as the named driver
A vehicle licence is usually issued for one year. During this time, the licensing authority can inspect your vehicle up to 3 times.
You must fix any problems within 2 months of failing an inspection.
Requirements and conditions
The licensing authority can attach conditions to vehicle licences. These might include:
- the colour scheme of your vehicle
- the use of roof signs
- use of a taximeter
If you plan to use your vehicle as a private hire vehicle (PHV), your vehicle must also:
- not look like a licensed taxi, for example a London-style 鈥榖lack cab鈥�
- display licence discs or plates - although exemptions are sometimes granted
Additional requirements for London
If you plan to work in London, your taxi or PHV must meet the .
You must also only display advertising that complies with .