If you want to use a vehicle as a private hire vehicle in Bath and North East Somerset, you need to obtain a private hire vehicle licence.
Before you apply
You need to read and understand the requirements on this page before you submit an application for a licence. We cannot proceed with your application unless you give us all the information we need.
You also need to read the policy and conditions for private hire vehicles
Select a topic below to find out if your vehicle is eligible and the details you must provide in your application.
If you want to apply for a private hire vehicle licence, your vehicle must meet all of the following criteria:
- Vehicles should be less than four years old on the date of the first application
- Engine size of the vehicle must be at least 1,400 cc
- Vehicle must have three doors which are accessible to fare-paying passengers
- Vehicle must be designed for the purpose of carrying passengers, not goods
If you have not yet purchased a vehicle, we advise that you consult one of our licensing officers before buying one so we can verify, in general terms, that it is compliant.
However, we cannot give permission for individual specific vehicles. It is your responsibility to ensure that any vehicle you purchase is fully compliant with any B&NES vehicle licence conditions in force.
Once we have confirmed the eligibility of your vehicle, you can submit your application.
You need to provide the following details in your application:
- Registration document
- Current insurance certificate covering the vehicle for private hire and reward
- MOT certificate for all vehicles over a year old on the date of application
- Mechanical Inspection Certificate (this can be obtained here)
- Measured mile meter compliance certificate (if the vehicle is fitted with a taximeter)
Fees and charges
Prices for private hire vehicle licences are shown in the following table.
| Fees | Price |
|---|---|
| New application fee | £61 |
| Roof sign | £76 |
| Renewal application fee | £124 |
| Fees | Price |
|---|---|
| Vehicle transfer | £61 |
| Proprietor transfer | £31 |
Duration
Licences are valid for one year, unless we state otherwise.
We issue all licences with an expiry date of 31 October.
Renewals
We will send you renewal information shortly before your current licence expires. We will also send you a unique reference number that you need to include in your online application.
How to apply
When you are sure you are eligible and are able to provide all the information we require, submit your application using our online form.
Apply for a private hire vehicle licence
Further information
Select a topic below to find out more about private hire vehicle licences.
Contentious applications will be referred to our Licensing Sub Committee for determination.
If you wish to appeal our decision to refuse to grant an application, or attach any condition to the licence, you can appeal to Bath Magistrates’ Court within 21 days of being notified of the decision.
A decision of the Magistrates’ Court can be appealed to the Crown Court.
All hackney carriage and private hire drivers and operators licensed by Bath & North East Somerset must abide by our policies and conditions
If you wish to make a complaint about a taxi driver or vehicle, please use our online form