Fares for Private Hire vehicles are not regulated by the Council.

To get a vehicle licensed by Ashfield District Council you must first decide whether the vehicle that you are going to drive is to be a hackney carriage of private hire vehicle. See FAQ the differences between the two types.

If you require a licence for a Hackney Carriage rather than a private hire vehicle please select this link .

All new applications for Private Hire licences will only be accepted when the vehicle is less that two years old and meets the required specification. These vehicles will be tested annually.

To continue renewing licences for vehicles beyond eight years of age, the vehicle must be shown to be in  'exceptional condition' and must be approved by the Licensing and Registration Committee.  These vehicles will be tested twice a year.

The minimum engine size currently allowed of Private Hire Vehicles is 1600cc.

How to apply

To apply you must complete an application form, have a vehicle test and supply all the required documentation.

Application forms can be obtained by clicking the relevant link below:

 Select to download a PDF application form 

or 

by contacting the Licensing Section of Ashfield District Council.

In addition to completing the application form you will need to enclose payment for the licence fee and book a vehicle test. Payment must be made in full before the test as the receipt will need to be taken with you to the test.

What happens Next?

If the test is successful you will need to visit the council offices with your completed application form and the following documentation:

• The original registration document/bill of sale
•  Insurance Certificate/cover note - The insurance must be for driving a taxi and cover must start, at the latest, from the date/time of the vehicle test.  
• Original log book 
•  MOT certificate (for vehicle over 1 year in age) (Ashfield District Council carry out independent MOT testing - please select this link for more information) 
•  Test sheet with fee receipt  

If you are renewing a vehicle over 8 years old an independent Motor Engineers report is also needed and your application will be referred to the Licensing and Registration Committee.

If you application is successful, your taxi plate and licence can be issued.