Private Hire Vehicles and Taxis

The law on vehicles available for hire dates back to the 1800's and as a result can be somewhat complicated to understand.

A variety of licences exist for vehicles and individuals who wish to carry passengers as a business. Vehicles are divided into two main types - Hackney Carriages (commonly referred to as Taxis) and Private Hire Vehicles. Hackneys are permitted to pick up passengers who wave them down in the street, but private hire vehicles are only permitted to collect people who have pre-booked through an office, which must also be licensed.

Before a Council can issue a licence to an individual, they must determine whether that person is a ‘fit and proper person’ to drive. This includes both physical ability and whether they have a criminal record.

For vehicles, there are differing specifications throughout the country and it is best to check with the local authority as to what their requirements are before making a purchase.

Applying for licences can sometimes be a little difficult and employing a solicitor may help. We are able to assist in the process from completing the forms to negotiating if issues arise once they are submitted. Our planning team can help in applying for planning permission for booking offices, which will be required before an application for a Private Hire Operator's licence is made.

Our solicitors can also assist by representing appellants in the Magistrates' Court if a licence is refused or enforcement action is taken against a licence holder.