Before you apply for a new private hire driver licence

What you'll need before you start your application.

Check you're eligible

You need to apply to be a licenced driver before you can apply for a new private hire driver licence.

You can apply to become a taxi driver if:

  • you’re over 18 years old
  • you've had a UK or EU licence for the past 3 years. If you are the holder of an EU licence this must be converted to a UK licence before your appointment to apply

Make sure you have the following before you apply.

Medical certificate

You need to provide a completed medical by your registered GP. 

This will be assessed by our independent medical advisor to ensure you comply with the DVLA group 2 standards. 

DVLA Group 2 standards are more stringent than those required for an ordinary DVLA driver licence.

If you need more information, phone the DVLA on 0870 240 0009 or send an email to hco@brighton-hove.gov.uk.   

Enhanced DBS certificate

To determine that you are a proper person, you need an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Register and follow the instructions for an Enhanced DBS check. Make sure you use this link - do not use any other link or company:

DBS Update Service

All drivers need to sign up to the DBS Update Service. The government's statutory standards require you to have a recheck every 6 months. 

This must be done within 28 days of being issued your enhanced certificate.

At the time of applying for your enhanced DBS certificate you will be asked to consent to First Advantage - KnowYourPeople. This service manages the DBS update service and updates us every 6 months.   

About the application

Taxi licensing is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. 

We have an overriding obligation for public safety and must determine whether an you're a fit and proper person to hold a licence.

All of your previous convictions are considered.

You must tell us on your application form all:

  • previous convictions
  • cautions
  • ASBOs
  • Motoring Convictions
  • fixed penalty notices

If you have previous convictions they may, or may not, prevent you from being granted a licence, but if you have withheld information this will negatively affect your application. We strongly advise you to contact our taxi licensing office for advice.  

If you have not been a citizen in the UK for more than 5 years, you need to get an Overseas DBS Certificate from the  countries you have lived in during the 5 year period before your application. We'll send you the relevant links to apply for this. 

If you can't produce certificate(s) of conduct, your application is incomplete.

You must submit all relevant documentation with your completed application.   

Insurance

Vehicle insurance for hackney carriage or private hire drivers can be very expensive particularly if you are a younger driver (under 25).

In some cases, it is extremely difficult or too expensive to get taxi driver insurance. We advise that you get the relevant information before going any further with your application.