Hackney Carriages (Taxis) & Private Hire Vehicles

We are responsible for the granting of licences to the proprietors of Hackney Carriages and Private Hire Vehicles. We also grant licences to Private Hire Operators and the drivers of both types of vehicles. Details of these licences can be found by following this link to our Public Register.

Hackney Carriages may of the traditional London Cab style or may be normal saloon vehicles distinguishable by the fact that these vehicles have a white bonnet and boot/tailgate and will display a roof sign with 'FOR HIRE' written on it.

Private Hire vehicles are usually 'saloon type' vehicles and include mini buses with up to and including eight passenger seats. Hackney Carriage Vehicles display a blue plate on the rear of the vehicle and Private Hire Vehicles display a red plate.  Both types of vehicle display a small window sticker of the relevant colour in the windscreen showing the licence details.

The basic difference between the two vehicles is that Hackney Carriages can be "flagged down" on the street or at a rank within the district that it is licensed and Private Hire Vehicles must be pre-booked through a Private Hire Operator.  If a Private Hire Driver accepts a fare off the street without it being pre-booked, they are liable to prosecution. It is also important to note that anyone taking a journey in a Private Hire Vehicle which has been "flagged down" may not be insured for the journey.

Last Updated on Thursday, 12 August 2010 09:59