Over the past few months, Moore Motoring Law have been helping and advising more and more drivers looking to apply for a Taxi Licence. This is a complex area and needs expert advice from the start to make sure your application is successful. Call today for FREE initial advice – 0115 784 1588
If you are a hackney carriage or a private hire driver, you need to be licenced by your local authority before you can operate.
Different local authorities will have slightly different requirements so it is important for you to seek legal advice at the earliest opportunity to ensure you have everything in place and are operating within the law.
Moore Motoring Law are experienced in helping drivers apply for a Licence and can also advise you if you want to appeal against a refused licence.
Who can apply for a Taxi Licence?
To apply for a taxi driver’s licence for the first time you must:
- be able to work legally in the UK
- have held a full GB or Northern Ireland driving licence – or a full EU driving licence – for at least 12 months
- You must also be a ‘fit and proper person’ – which means your background and character will be checked.
- Your council may carry out an enhanced criminal records check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
You may also need:
- a medical examination
- a ‘knowledge’ test
It is in the interests of public safety and the safeguarding of vulnerable persons for local authorities to vet, grant and reknew licences.
What if my application is refused? Can I appeal?
The short answer is yes – if you apply for a taxi licence and are unsuccessful, you can then appeal to the local Magistrates’ Court. It is then up to the council to prove that you are not a fit and proper person. The council may also attach conditions, against which it is also possible to appeal.
Local councils also have powers to suspend / revoke taxi licences for various reasons that include convictions for dishonesty, indecency or violence. You can appeal against this to the Magistrates’ Court and in most cases may continue to drive pending appeal.
Appeals must be lodged within 21 days of the council’s decision. It is vital you contact Moore Motoring Law at the earliest opportunity to ensure you comply with the appeal dates and we can help you fight your case.
Don’t risk your licence or your livelihood, speak to our expert motoring law team today for FREE initial advice on 0115 784 1588
