Hackney carriage (taxi) licence

What is a hackney carriage (taxi) licence?

A hackney carriage licence allows a vehicle to ply for hire, be flagged down or hired at a taxi rank within the borough of Woking. It is an offence to trade without a licence.

Once licensed, a taxi is always a taxi until the licence expires.

All drivers must:

  • abide by the customer charter

  • display a white licence plate on the rear of the vehicle

  • display a double-sided internal licence plate on the front windscreen

  • have a 'taxi' sign on the roof capable of being lit

  • display a fare chart inside the vehicle

  • must use a tested and sealed 'taxi' fare meter.

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How do I qualify for a hackney carriage licence?

All drivers of a hackney carriage must be a holder of a hackney carriage driver licence.

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Which vehicles are currently accepted?

Hackney Carriage Vehicle licences must be for brand new, black, DDA compliant (wheelchair accessible), purpose built, London style or similar and have an integral retractable step. Before buying any vehicle contact the Licensing Officer to make sure it meets all the criteria.

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How do I apply for a hackney carriage licence?

Appointments are held on Wednesdays; please contact the Licensing Officer to arrange a time to discuss any new applications.

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How do I renew my hackney carriage licence?

You must:

  • provide the vehicle registration document

  • provide the MOT certificate (if applicable)

  • provide your insurance certificate

  • complete an application form (online application also available)

  • pay a fee (cash can only be accepted if applying in person - do not send cash through the post)

  • pass a vehice inspection (booked through the Council)

  • return the old/expired vehicle licence plate.

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How long will I have to wait for my renewed licence?

As soon as we have been notified by the testing station that your vehicle complies with all of the necessary checks and we have received all the required documentation above, we are able to issue you with your licence.

There is an approximate waiting time of a week for vehicle inspections.

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What obligations do I have when my licence has been renewed?

You must:

  • abide by the customer charter and the conditions attached to your licence

  • pay the renewal licensing fee

  • take your vehicle to the testing station for a six monthly test, if your car is older than three years (reminder letters sent out)

  • ensure the vehicle be maintained in sound and roadworthy mechanical conditions

  • ensure the fare meter is tested and sealed on a regular basis

  • ensure the interior and exterior of the vehicle be maintained in a clean and proper manner

  • ensure the vehicle is taxed and insured for the purpose for which it is used and the provisions of the Road Traffic Acts and all other relevant legislation be observed

  • securely fix the plate supplied by the Council to the exterior rear of the vehicle in such fashion as to be clearly visible and in a position acceptable to the Council

  • have a 'taxi' sign on the roof capable of being lit

  • display a current fare chart inside the vehicle (fares set by the Council).

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What do I do if my licence plate is stolen or lost?

Inform the Council in writing, or person, as soon as possible. There is a replacement fee of £35.00.