Private hire vehicles
A private hire vehicle must be pre-booked through a licensed private hire operator office before a member of the public can use it for a journey.
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These vehicles may not apply for hire from a rank or be flagged down in the street.
The guidance notes below set out the pre-licensing requirements for private hire vehicles and describe the process involved. As a wide range of vehicles may be licensed for private hire, some are wheelchair accessible and some are not.
Temporary relaxation of vehicle age policy
With effect from 26 October 2023, we have temporarily amended the age restrictions for licensed vehicles.
For new applications - the age at which a vehicle can be first licensed has been increased to six years of age from five years of age. The vehicle must also comply with all existing other requirements.
For vehicles already licensed - the age at which the vehicle can stay licensed until has increased to 12 years of age from 11 years of age. These vehicles will be subject to three vehicle inspections a year (every four months).
The policy will be in place whilst a consultation takes place on a permanent vehicle age policy.
Private hire operators
All private hire vehicles must be operated from an official private hire office licensed by us. Planning permission may be required for new operators' offices - contact our planning department for more information.
The application form for a private hire operator's licence is available below, together with the guidance notes.
Apply for a taxi operator licence
You can apply for a taxi operator licence using the quick link at the top of this page.
Vehicle licences
You can apply to renew your hackney carriage or private hire vehicle licence online by using the form at the top of this page. This form can also be used for new vehicles. You will need to sign up for an account and then select the form on the list of forms available. You will need to upload copies of your MOT, Vehicle Inspection Sheet, Insurance and V5 Logbook. You will then be directed to make a payment.
Once received the Licensing Team will process your application and your licence will be emailed to you. Your plate will then be posted directly to you from our supplier once the order has been sent to them to process – this may take time to come through to you so please be patient.
Six month inspection
You can also book your six month test online at: Book your test online.
The inspection must be carried out no earlier than 14 days before the due date, and no later than the due date.
Change of vehicle/transfer of vehicle licence
If you need a change of ownership or change of vehicle, do not use this form please email licensing@leicester.gov.uk for more advice.