Apply for a taxi driver licence (including Hackney Carriage and Private Hire)

Stage 1 - English test

We will NOT accept B1 English certificates, any qualification submitted MUST have been completed face to face in the UK in an educational setting. We will require evidence, and this must be agreed BEFORE progressing to Stage 2.

If you do not hold an English qualification at entry level 3 or above, you will need to contact Crosland Moor Learning Centre, to access the local Kirklees ESOL assessment provision that is available for you.

The ESOL Assessment is held at:

To book please:

Call the centre: Phone 01484 462346

Email: enquries@croslandmoorclc.org.uk

Or fill out the online form below.

The venue has free parking available for when you attend your appointment. Should you pass your assessment you can then progress to Stage 2 of the application process.

You cannot move to Stage 2 of the process without completion of Stage 1.

Stage 2 - Training and Tests

This compromises of a Theory Training course and Theory Test and is all covered within one session.

You will not be permitted to undertake Stage 2 without completion of Stage 1 of the process. When you attend the training, you will be asked to provide your ESOL pass certificate obtained from our ESOL Assessment provider at Crosland Moor or the email of exemption given by the Licensing Team. If you do not provide either of these, you will be refused the training on the day, and no refund will be issued.

You must complete the training and pass the theory test to move on in the process to become a licensed driver.

The Theory Test consists of the following 4 modules which will all be covered on the theory training course:

• Regulatory framework (legislation) of the private hire and Hackney carriage industry
• Professional standards
• Safeguarding
• Equalities and disability

Following completion of the theory training course, Officers will go through the driver conditions with all participants, and you will be required to sign to agree you have read and understood the conditions. Then officers will go through the online application process with participants.

Book an appointment for a taxi theory training course and theory test

Fill in our simple online form.

Paperclip There is a fee of £128.79 payable upon booking.

When you attend the theory training course you will be required to produce your DVLA driving licence and a copy of your ESOL certificate or evidence that the licensing service have agreed you are exempt from completing the ESOL assessment.

Book an appointment for a taxi theory training course and theory test

Practical driver training test

You must pass a practical driver training test. This can be completed at any stage but, must be completed and passed prior to submission of your application. The pass certificate must be dated within the twelve-month period before submission of an application.

Kirklees Council no longer provide the practical driver training and test. You can book a test through one of our approved suppliers.

Approved practical driver training test suppliers

We will also accept a driven test that has been completed by any driven test provider approved by another West Yorkshire Authority.

Tax requirements

If you are applying for a licence for the first time, you do not need to complete a tax check. However, you:

• should read confirm your tax responsibilities when applying for a taxi, private hire or scrap metal licence on what you need to do to be properly registered for tax when you renew your licence.
• confirm when you submit your application that you have done this.

Other requirements before you submit your application

• You must have held a full DVLA driving licence for a minimum of 2 years.
• You must provide proof that you have the right to work in the UK.
• You must have fully read the Statement of Fitness and Suitability. This is particularly relevant if you have any criminal or motoring convictions or cautions as this may result in your application being refused.
• You must pass a medical with your registered doctor to Group 2 Standard (for people with a driving job). Your medical must have been completed by your GP less than 6 months prior to the submission of your application. The fee will be payable directly to your GP and may vary at each GP practice.
• You must undertake an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and sign up to the DBS Update Service. Payment of £67.50 will be taken at the time of your application submission. You also pay:
  • an additional £12.50 fee. This is paid to the post office to verify your documents once you have completed the online application form.
  • £13 up front and annually directly to the DBS to sign up for the online update service.
  Failure to sign up to the update service or pay the annual fee will result in the suspension of your licence.
• You must provide a DVLA check code.
• You must provide a valid email address.