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Leicester Taxi Licence Guide

Leicestershire

Information last checked: 28 August 2026

Private Hire DriverHackney Carriage Driver

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements and procedures for obtaining a taxi or private hire driver licence from Leicester City Council. Navigating the licensing process is a significant step toward a career in the transport industry, requiring adherence to strict safety and professional standards.

Overview

Leicester City Council acts as the licensing authority for all Hackney Carriage and Private Hire activities within the city boundaries. The primary purpose of the licensing regime is to ensure public safety by verifying that all drivers are "fit and proper" persons. In Leicester, the council maintains high standards for vehicle safety, driver conduct, and geographical knowledge to provide a reliable service for residents and visitors Taxi licensing in Leicester.

Licence types the council offers

Leicester City Council issues three main categories of licences:

  • Taxi Driver Licence: Uniquely, Leicester issues a single driver licence that covers both Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles Taxi licensing in Leicester.
  • Vehicle Licences: Separate licences for Hackney Carriages (which can be hailed and use taxi ranks) and Private Hire Vehicles (which must be pre-booked) Taxi licensing in Leicester.
  • Private Hire Operator Licence: Required for businesses that invite or accept bookings for private hire vehicles Taxi licensing in Leicester.

Eligibility

To be eligible for a licence, applicants must demonstrate they are "fit and proper." This involves a thorough assessment of their character, driving history, and medical fitness. Please confirm the current requirement with the relevant council regarding the minimum age for applicants and the specific length of residency required.

Driving licence requirements

Applicants must hold a valid UK driving licence. This licence must have been held for a minimum period to demonstrate sufficient driving experience. Please confirm the current requirement with the relevant council regarding the exact number of years the licence must have been held and the maximum number of penalty points permitted for new applicants.

DBS requirements

Public safety is paramount, so all applicants must undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check Apply for a personal licence | Leicester City Council. This check reveals spent and unspent convictions, cautions, and other relevant police information. Drivers are typically required to subscribe to the DBS Update Service to allow the council to perform periodic checks throughout the duration of the licence.

Medical requirements

Drivers must meet the DVLA Group 2 medical standards, which are the same standards required for bus and lorry drivers. This involves an examination by a qualified medical practitioner who will assess eyesight, cardiovascular health, and neurological conditions. Please confirm the current requirement with the relevant council regarding whether you must use your own GP or if the council provides a list of approved practitioners.

Knowledge test

To ensure drivers can navigate the city efficiently without total reliance on GPS, Leicester City Council requires applicants to pass a Knowledge Test. This examination typically covers:

  • Local geography and landmarks.
  • The most efficient routes between locations.
  • Council licensing conditions and local byelaws.
  • Highway Code and road safety.

Topographical test

While often integrated into the broader knowledge test, a topographical assessment specifically focuses on map-reading skills and the ability to plan routes across the Leicestershire area. Please confirm the current requirement with the relevant council to see if this is conducted as a separate practical assessment or a written exam.

Safeguarding and English requirements

All new drivers must complete mandatory Safeguarding Awareness Training. This training helps drivers identify and report signs of exploitation, such as child sexual abuse or human trafficking Driver Licence - North West Leicestershire District Council. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a sufficient level of English proficiency to communicate effectively with passengers and emergency services. Please confirm the current requirement with the relevant council regarding the specific English language qualification or assessment method required.

Application process

The application process is primarily managed online through the council’s licensing portal.

  1. Account Creation: Register an account on the Leicester City Council website Apply for a personal licence | Leicester City Council.
  2. Documentation: Upload scanned copies of your driving licence, proof of right to work in the UK, and a passport-sized photograph.
  3. Submission: Complete the application form and pay the relevant fee.

Typical stages

  • Stage 1: Initial application and document verification.
  • Stage 2: Completion of the DBS check and medical examination.
  • Stage 3: Passing the Knowledge and Topographical tests.
  • Stage 4: Completion of Safeguarding and English assessments.
  • Stage 5: Final review by a licensing officer and issuance of the badge.

Fees

Licensing fees are subject to annual reviews. As of 1 June 2026, new fee structures have been implemented Taxi licensing in Leicester. For example, vehicle renewal tests are approximately £75.00 (excluding VAT) VTS » Leicester City Council - Appointments. Please confirm the current requirement with the relevant council for the full schedule of driver application and badge fees.

Renewal

Driver licences are typically issued for three years. It is the driver's responsibility to apply for a renewal before the current licence expires Taxi licensing – Driver renewals. The council recommends starting the renewal process at least 8 weeks in advance to avoid a lapse in licensing, which would legally prevent you from working.

Common mistakes

  • Incomplete Applications: Failing to upload all required documents, leading to delays or rejections.
  • Late Renewals: Applying too close to the expiry date, resulting in a period where the driver cannot work Taxi licensing – Driver renewals.
  • DBS Delays: Not signing up for the DBS Update Service, which can complicate future renewals.
  • Medical Errors: Using a doctor who does not have access to your full medical records if required by the council.

What Smart Taxi Solutions can help with

Smart Taxi Solutions is an independent service provider and does NOT issue licences. We offer support services such as assistance with application paperwork, guidance on preparing for the knowledge test, and advice on meeting council standards. Please note that Leicester City Council is the sole authority that makes the final licensing decision.

What the council is responsible for

Leicester City Council is responsible for:

  • Setting the standards for driver and vehicle licensing.
  • Conducting tests and background checks.
  • Enforcing licensing conditions and taking disciplinary action if necessary.
  • Issuing the final driver badge and vehicle plates.

Official council website

For the most up-to-date information, application forms, and fee schedules, always visit the official Leicester City Council website: https://www.leicester.gov.uk.

Information last checked: 28 August 2026.

Official Leicester licensing page

Training & Licence Application Support

Smart Taxi Solutions provides independent application support and training coordination for taxi and private-hire licensing.

Where a recognised qualification or specialist training is required, we arrange training through the relevant training academy or authorised training provider. Customers may be required to attend the training provider's premises for classroom, practical training or assessments.

Any qualification or certificate is issued by the relevant awarding organisation, where applicable, and any taxi/private-hire licence is issued by the relevant licensing authority.

Smart Taxi Solutions does not issue qualifications, certificates or taxi/private-hire licences and cannot guarantee examination or licensing outcomes. Our role is to provide application support, document assistance and training coordination throughout the process.

Need help preparing your Leicester application? Smart Taxi Solutions provides application support, document preparation and test preparation. View our services or contact us.