Taxi Licensing Solicitors – Legal Advice for Drivers and Operators

At Quebec Law Solicitors, we advise and represent individuals and businesses navigating the legal requirements of taxi and private hire licensing across the UK. Whether you are applying for a new licence, appealing a decision by the licensing authority, or facing enforcement action, our team provides clear, expert legal support every step of the way.

Taxi licensing is regulated by local authorities, and the requirements can vary depending on your location. We provide practical advice on meeting eligibility criteria, completing applications, and protecting your professional livelihood in the event of a dispute or licence refusal.

Applying for a Taxi Driver Licence

To work as a taxi or private hire driver in the UK, you must obtain the appropriate licence from your local licensing authority. The general requirements include:

• Holding a full UK or EU driving licence for at least 12 months
• Being aged 18 or over
• Passing a medical examination
• Undergoing a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) criminal record check
• Passing both a theory and practical driving test
• Completing a local knowledge or area awareness test

We help ensure that you understand your rights and responsibilities as an applicant, assist with gathering documentation, and advise on any areas of concern, such as prior convictions or health-related disclosures that may affect your application.

Types of Taxi Licences in the UK

The type of licence you require will depend on the type of work you intend to carry out. We advise on applications and eligibility for:

• Hackney Carriage Licence: Required for drivers of taxis that can be hailed on the street. Applicants must usually pass a local knowledge test and vehicle safety inspection.
• Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) Licence: For vehicles that must be pre-booked through a licensed operator. Applicants must meet vehicle safety, insurance, and eligibility standards.
• Public Carriage Office (PCO) Licence: Required to operate in Greater London, regulated by Transport for London (TfL). Includes stringent testing and documentation requirements.

Taxi Licensing Appeals and Enforcement

If your licence application has been refused, revoked, or suspended by the local licensing authority, we can help you challenge the decision. We represent clients in:

• Appeals to the Magistrates’ Court
• Representations before licensing committees
• Disciplinary hearings and reviews of licence conditions
• Judicial reviews and higher court proceedings, where appropriate

Our team ensures that your case is fully presented, with supporting documentation and evidence, and that your rights are protected throughout the process. We also advise licensed drivers facing enforcement action due to motoring offences, criminal charges, or alleged breaches of licence conditions.

Vehicle Compliance and Safety Standards

Drivers intending to use their own vehicles for taxi or PHV work must ensure that their vehicles meet the relevant safety and compliance standards. We advise on:

• Vehicle inspections and certification
• Insurance and licensing conditions
• Modifications, signage, and accessibility compliance

Costs and Licensing Fees

The cost of obtaining a taxi licence varies by authority. For example, Cambridge City Council charges:

• New driver application: £245
• One-year renewal: £82
• Three-year renewal: £225
• Amendments (e.g. change of address): £15

Transport for London fees for PCO licences include:

• Application fee: £120
• Licence grant fee: £180
• DBS check: £56.85–£58.85
• Medical assessment: approx. £80
• Knowledge of London written test: £200
• Knowledge face-to-face interview: £400

We provide full guidance on expected fees in your area and assist with managing the process efficiently.