Private hire operator

Summary

To operate private hire vehicles in East Staffordshire, you need a Private Hire Operator's Licence.  A Private Hire Vehicle Operator Licence may be applied for by a company or partnership.

It is a requirement for all new Private Hire Operators to demonstrate adequate English Language skills and therefore undertake and pass an English Language skills assessment (came into force on the 01 March 2020), prior to submission of your application.

To operate standard private hire vehicles. A private hire vehicle should be less than 7 years old, carry a maximum of 8 passengers. The vehicle must also display door panels including the ESBC Logo, name of operator and telephone number.

Fees

£452.00 (5 year operator licence)

£43.00 Knowledge Test

£28.99 (English Language Skills Assessment)

Application form & guidance notes

• Guidance Notes for English Language Oral Skills Assessment
• Download the Private Hire Vehicle Operators licence application form
• Notification of Change of Proprietor/Operator
• Procedure for Private Hire Operator Applicants
• Private Hire Operator Conditions
• Driver's Dress Code
• Guidelines on the relevance of convictions
• Enforcement Intervention Scheme
• Knowledge Test - Once you have submitted your application an appointment for your knowledge test will be sent to you. The test will be a written assessment and you will be required to produce photographic identification before sitting the test.  You will be tested on the Operator Licence Conditions.  New applications will only be valid for six months. If you are required to appear before the General Licensing Sub Committee, the application will only be valid for three months from the date of the Committee hearing.
• Child restraints & seatbelts leaflets
• CSE Leaflet
• Change of Base Address

Attachments required

• Basic DBS Certificate (issued within 30 days) - a basic DBS status check is required on an annual basis
• Adequate identification documents i.e., passport or UK driving licence etc

Legislation

To qualify as an Operator you must:

• Have no relevant convictions or been determined by the General Licensing Sub Committee to be a fit and proper person
• pass a knowledge test and English and language skills assessment

Validity & renewals

5 years

Complaints

Please contact Taxi Licensing in the first instance.

Email

[email protected]

Go to private hire vehicle licences for other application forms in relation to Private Hire Vehicle Operators