We have reviewed and updated the existing Taxi and Private Hire Licensing Policy which aims to:
- keep people safe
- improve standards
- protect children and adults who may need extra support
- support better taxi and private hire services
Government guidance says councils should regularly review their policies and update them when necessary.
What has been updated
The updated policy includes:
- stronger training requirements, including disability awareness training
- stronger checks on taxi and private hire operators, and better records of bookings
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks every 6 months
- removes the need for taxis and private hire vehicles to carry a fire extinguisher
- clearer enforcement rules, including working more closely with nearby councils
- the need for taxis, also known as Hackney Carriages, to accept card payments
Draft policy for public consultation
View or download the draft Taxi and Private Hire Licensing Policy.
How to have your say
We would like to hear from drivers, taxi and private hire operators, passengers, residents, businesses and community groups.
You can give us your comments by email.
Email: licensing@woking.gov.uk
Please include with your response:
- your name
- organisation, if applicable
- section of the draft policy your comments relate to
The consultation closes at 11:59pm on Friday 7 August 2026.
After the consultation
After the consultation closes, we will review all comments. A final policy will then be considered for approval.
Once approved, we will use the policy to decide licence applications.