Apply for a private hire operator licence

What you need to set up as a private hire operator and how to apply

A private hire operator dispatches a private hire vehicle to a customer as a result of a pre-arranged booking. You will need a private hire operator licence to do this.

One person can be licensed and employ or sub-contract an unlimited number of licensed vehicles. However, a licensed private hire driver can not accept any bookings unless they either hold or work for a licensed private hire operator.

Apply online for a private hire operator licence

If you prefer, you can also print off and complete an application form in writing:

Download a private hire operator licence application form

You will also need to:

Conditions

There are Private Hire Operator Licence Conditions (pdf 22kB). You should ensure you have read and understood these, as failure to comply with certain conditions may result in enforcement action being taken.

Other information