Private hire vehicle operator 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.
It is an offence to trade without a licence.
Eligibility criteria
To be grant a licence we must be satisfied the applicant is a fit and proper person to hold the licence.
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, along with requirements and conditions.
Application evaluation process
You need to provide a completed application form and fee.
If you are already licensed with EHDC as a driver you will not need to provide the
following, otherwise you must provide:
- Basic Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) Disclosure obtained from CRB Scotland
- if you are a non-UK national, a Certificate of Good Conduct/Character/Citizenship from the Ministry of Justice from your country of origin or UK Embassy
- if you have lived abroad for more than a month, a Certificate of Good Conduct/Character/Citizenship from the Ministry of Justice for particular country/countries
- proof of eligibility to live and work in UK (this will be requested where applicable eg overseas students undertaking a course in the UK or applicants who may be apply before moving to the UK)
- references from two persons of standing in the community. These must not be from relatives or anyone who is involved in the Hackney Carriage or Private Hire trade
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(s) and sending together with any required supporting documentation by email to licensing@easthants.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
If an application for a licence is refused the failed applicant can appeal to the local magistrates' court within 21 days of the refusal.
Licence holder redress
Please contact us in the first instance:
Tel: 01730 234355 email: licensing@easthants.gov.uk
Where a new condition is applied to a licence, or a licence is revoked, the licence holder is entitled to appeal to the local magistrates’ court within 21 days of the notice.
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).
Please contact the Local Authority:
Tel: 01730 234355 email: licensing@easthants.gov.uk