Private Hire Drivers Licence New Application

To get a licence, you must show that you are a ‘fit and proper person’.

There is no strict legal definition of a ‘fit and proper person,’ but we use this commonly accepted test to make our decision:

“Would you allow someone you care about (like your child, parent, or partner) to get into a vehicle alone with this person?”

You must pass an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This check will show any past criminal convictions, as well as any concerns regarding children or vulnerable adults.

Because you are applying to be a taxi driver, the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act does not apply to you. This means your past convictions are never considered ‘spent’ (ignored or wiped from your record), and you must declare all of them.

However, having a past conviction does not automatically stop you from getting a licence.

• Age and experience: To apply as a driver, you must be at least 21 years old and have held a full UK driving licence for more than 12 months.
• Refunds: Please note that if your application is refused, you will not be entitled to a refund.

You must pass the English Test and the Knowledge Test before you can apply to be a Private Hire Driver.

• Knowledge Test Information Page

Under rules introduced on 6 April 2022, we can no longer accept physical biometric cards as proof of your right to work. This applies to drivers holding Biometric Residence Permits (BRP), Biometric Residence Cards (BRC), or Frontier Worker Permits (FWP).

If you hold one of these, you must use the Home Office online checking service to get a “share code,” which you must provide to us.

• Application form: Download New Driver application form.
• DBS form & privacy statement: You must collect a physical Enhanced DBS (criminal record check) form and the DBS Privacy Statement from the Reception Desk at the main Thanet Council Office (Cecil Street, Margate).
• Medical: Complete a medical examination.

You must pay your fees before you book your appointment. The total fee is £284.30, which is broken down as follows (as of 1 April 2026):

• Application fee: £214.00
• Driver badge: £20.80
• Enhanced DBS check: £49.50
• Total = £284.30

Please pay via BACS transfer using these details:

• Bank: National Westminster Bank PLC
• Sort Code: 60-14-05
• Account Number: 67834000
• Payee: Thanet District Council
• Payment Reference: Your name

Once you receive your completed DBS check back, you will need to sign up for the DBS Update Service. This currently costs £16 a year, but it will make renewing your licence in the future much quicker and easier.

Licence length: If approved, licences are normally granted for 3 years, unless the Licensing Board decides a shorter licence is required.

Evaluation standards: Every three years, we will require a new criminal records check (following the Disclosure & Barring Service Code of Practice) and a medical examination that meets the “Group 2” standard.

Private Hire Driver – Conditions of Licence