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Private hire operator licences - Apply or renew a licence

If you want to take bookings for private hire vehicles and drivers licensed by us you must have a private hire operator’s licence also issued by us. Licences are normally granted for 5 years. You must renew your licence before it expires. If you do not, your business may have to close for a period and you may face higher costs.

How much do licences cost?

The taxi licensing fees page outlines all fees.

Conditions of private hire operators licence

Once you have a licence, make sure you follow the conditions of your Private Hire Operators Licence

To have a licence you:

  • must have an office or address in the Waverley area
  • must have public liability insurance in place to include employees, vehicles and drivers under your control
  • must comply with the legal requirements to run a business, for example, relating to planning permission for the use of the premises; liability insurance; employing people etc.  Get advice on setting up a business on gov.uk
  • may need to sit a knowledge test if you haven’t already done so

We will check that you are a ‘fit and proper person’ to hold a Private Hire Operators licence. Our main interest is to ensure the safety of the public.

We may share the information you give, if needed, and as allowed by law, see our privacy notice.