Private hire driver licence

What is a private hire driver licence?

A private hire driver licence allows a specified person to operate a private hire vehicle within the Borough of Woking. It is an offence to trade without a licence.

All drivers must:

• abide by the customer charter
• wear a badge showing their photograph, licence number and date of expiry
• carry out a prompt, efficient and reliable service to the public
• not operate as a hackney carriage and display the word "taxi" or "cab" or "for hire", or give the impression that the vehicle is a licensed hackney carriage.

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How do I qualify for a private hire driver licence?

You must:

• have held a full DVLA driver's licence for motor cars for at least 12 months prior to application
• be a fully competent driver
• be physically and mentally fit
• have a sound knowledge of the streets and principal buildings in Woking
• be a 'fit and proper' person (relating to previous criminal or traffic convictions, conduct, etc.).

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How do I apply for a private hire driver licence?

You must:

• pick up an application pack from the cash office
• contact the licensing office to arrange an appointment
• produce proof of identity and two recent passport photographs
• give details of any convictions
• pass a check bythe Criminal Records Bureau (CRB)
• pass a medical
• pass a Driving Standard Agency (DSA) test
• pass a local knowledge test
• complete an application form and
• pay a fee (cash can only be accepted if applying in person - do not send cash through the post).

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How long will I have to wait for my licence?

Due to the various tests and checks that have to be carried out prior to the issue, the application process can take up to two months.

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What happens if I have convictions?

Dependent on the seriousness and relevance of the conviction, the application will either be put before the Head of Planning and Regulation or before the Licensing Committee.

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What can I do if my licence application is refused?

You can appeal to the Magistrates' Court against the Council's decision.

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What obligations do I have when my licence is granted?

Once you are a licence holder you must:

• abide by the customer charter and the conditions attached to your licence
• pay the renewal licensing fee
• carry out a prompt, efficient and reliable service to the public
• report any change of address to the Council within 48 hours
• report any conviction (motoring or otherwise) to the Council within seven days
• not operate as a hackney carriage and display the word "taxi" or "cab" or "for hire", or give the impression that the vehicle is a licensed hackney carriage.

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

Inform the Council in writing, or person, as soon as possible. There is a replacement fee of £20.00.

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How do I renew my private hire driver licence?

The renewal procedure is the same for the first application.

You will need to receive a further satisfactory CRB clearance every three years; and pass a medical every five years up until 60 years of age, and every year after that.