Private hire vs hackney carriage
The two main types of taxi licence in the UK are private hire and hackney carriage. They look similar but work very differently.
How fares are obtained
- Hackney carriage vehicles can be hailed in the street and can wait on a taxi rank.
- Private hire vehicles must be pre-booked through a licensed operator. They cannot be hailed or use ranks.
This is the most important practical difference.
The vehicles
Hackney carriages are often purpose-built taxis, sometimes with a roof sign and meter. Private hire vehicles look like ordinary cars and must be licensed. Vehicle requirements vary by council.
The licences
Each type has its own driver licence and vehicle licence. Some councils offer a dual driver licence that combines both. See What Is a Dual Taxi Driver Licence?.
Common requirements
Both usually require an enhanced DBS check, a medical, and often a knowledge or topographical test. Exact requirements vary by council.
Which is right for you?
It depends on how you want to work. If you want to take street hails and rank work, hackney carriage may be relevant. If you want to work for a pre-booked operator or app, private hire is usually the route. Confirm which licences your council offers before applying.
How Smart Taxi Solutions can help
We provide application support and test preparation for both licence types. We do not issue licences or make licensing decisions.
This article is general information and may change. Confirm current requirements with the relevant council.