Private hire operator licence

How to apply

Download, complete and return the application form after reading the licence the conditions below. 

• Private hire operators’ application form

  Download this document: Private hire operators’ application form (PDF: 98 KB)

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• Private hire operators conditions

  Download this document: Private hire operators conditions (PDF: 235 KB)

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You will need to supply the address in Liverpool you wish to operate from, and pay a five-year licence fee of £750.

In addition to having a private hire operators’ licence, you will also need:

• A taxi plate - for all vehicles involved in private hire work.
• Private hire driver’s licence - for all anyone driving a licensed private hire vehicle.

Planning permission

To operate a private hire taxi company you will need to apply for planning permission to make sure that if your business is run from home, it will not cause nuisance or obstruction to your neighbours.

Type of work that requires an operators’ licence

Any pre-booked work such as airport transfers, hen or stag nights or work of a similar nature. 

If your vehicle is equipped to carry up to eight passengers, a private operator’s licence from the council is sufficient.  Anything above eight seats requires the licence to be obtained from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.