Private hire vehicle licence
Licensing is necessary to ensure the safety of the public; the public should be able to use the local services confident that they will reach the end of their journey in safety.
Eligibility criteria
Purpose-built vehicles are not compulsory. Stretched limousines, vintage, classic or niche vehicles must comply with the Conditions specified in Appendix F (see 'Related documents').
No vehicle will be granted a licence if it is licensed in another district.
Regulation summary
The powers to regulate and issue licences are contained in:
(external links to Office of Public Sector Information website).
See 'Related documents' below for EHDC's hackney carriage and private hire licensing policy statement, specifications, requirements and conditions.
Application evaluation process
All licensed vehicles must comply with the requirements of any Acts and regulations relating to motor vehicles in force during the period and the specification for hackney carriage and private hire vehicles shown at Appendix E (see 'Related documents').
A full vehicle safety check is needed for the protection of the driver and public. The annual MOT test is not sufficiently detailed for this purpose. This test will be carried out by an MOT registered garage approved by EHDC.
Will tacit consent apply?
No. It is in the public interest that the local authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please contact us.
Application
You may apply by downloading the attached form and sending together with any required supporting documentation by email to licensing@easthant.gov.uk or post to:
East Hampshire District Council
Licensing Office
PO Box 176
Penns Place
Petersfield
Hampshire
GU31 4WT
Failed application redress
Please contact us in the first instance:
Tel: 01730 234355 email: licensing@easthants.gov.uk
Where a licence application is refused the applicant has a right of appeal to the Magistrates' Court. An appeal must be lodged in writing within 21 days of notification of the refusal.
Licence holder redress
Please contact the us in the first instance:
Tel: 01730 234355 email: licensing@easthants.gov.uk
Where an existing licence is suspended or revoked the applicant has a right of appeal to the Magistrates' Court. An appeal must be lodged in writing within 21 days of notification of the suspension or revocation.
Consumer complaint
We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery).
If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct (external link) will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre (external link).
Alternatively contact EHDC:
Tel: 01730 234355 email: licensing@easthants.gov.uk