Applying for a Private Hire Operator's Licence

A private hire operator's licence is required in order to be able to accept bookings for private hire vehicles. If you are a vehicle proprietor, you may work for any existing operator providing you have a letter from them authorising you to do so. If you wish to apply for your own licence to operate from premises which will be used as a booking office, you need to obtain planning permission from the Council's Planning Department allowing use of the building.

A certificate of public liability insurance is required where the public have access to the premises, ie waiting room, etc. However, where no public access or waiting facilities are provided or if you wish to operate your own vehicle from home, this insurance is not necessary.

Step 1

• Download an application form
• Obtain planning permission (if necessary)
• Read the private hire operator's conditions
  

Step 2

Return the form in person to the Taxi Licensing Team at Number One Market Street, Nelson, between the hours of 11.00am and 2.30pm Monday to Friday. You should also bring the following items:

• the appropriate fee (£282 for 1-5 vehicles or £352 for 6 or more vehicles)
  
• certificate of public liability insurance (if applicable)
• copy of planning permission

We look forward to receiving your application. If you have any difficulty with any of the forms or have any questions, please contact the Taxi Licensing Team.

Online Services

• View the public register of licences.