Taxi Licensing FAQs
Drivers
What is the procedure to obtain a driver’s licence?
To obtain a driver’s licence, you must pass a knowledge test and safeguarding training, provide proof of right to work, hold a full UK driving licence for at least 12 months, meet DVLA Group 2 medical standards, and complete enhanced DBS and NR3 checks. All convictions must be disclosed, and renewal applicants must complete an HMRC tax check. The knowledge test must be passed before applying - see Driver Notes.
What questions are in the knowledge test?
Questions relating to vehicle maintenance, highway code, road signs and our licensing policy and law – see the Revision Guide.
How long is my knowledge test valid for?
6 months
How long is my medical valid for?
4 months
When will my licence be issued?
Once we have all the required documents. It will then take approximately one week to issue and email the licence.
What training do I require?
Training regarding child sexual exploitation.
How do I register and complete the Child Sexual Exploitation training?
You can register at CSE training. CSE Levels 1 & 2 must be completed and the signed declaration sent.
I’m struggling logging in/finding the CSE courses
You can email workforce.development@blackburn.gov.uk for help with any issues.
How do I renew my existing licence?
You need to complete the online application form
How will I receive my licence?
Your paper copy will be emailed. Your badge will need to be collected from reception at 1 Market Street, Nelson, Lancashire, BB9 7LJ.
My operator needs to see my paper licence
You will receive a PDF copy by email and you will also appear on our Public Register.
How to I get a Tax Check Code or a Right Work Share Code?
You can get a tax check code by visiting Tax Check Code. You can get a right to work share code by visiting Right to Work.
DBS
How do I apply for a new DBS?
You can apply through Taxi Plus at I'm a driver — TaxiPlus
Can I use a DBS from another council?
Yes, it must be an enhanced Taxi Driver Other Workforce that is registered on the DBS update service.
I haven’t subscribed to the DBS update service, what do I do?
If your DBS is less than 30 days old, you can still subscribe to the DBS update service. If you are no longer subscribed, you must apply for a new one here - I'm a driver — TaxiPlus
Certificate of Good Conduct
When do I need a certificate of good conduct?
If you have lived outside the UK in the last 10 years, you must provide an English translated Certificate of Conduct from every country lived in.
How do I get this for my country?
You can find your country and guidance here - Criminal records checks for overseas applicants - GOV.UK
It is taking me a long time to get my certificate, what should I do?
Taxi Licensing and Compliance cannot accept responsibility for delays from third parties.
Vehicles
How do I complete the daily vehicle maintenance checks?
You can complete your daily checks using a Paper Check or download the app from Google Play or Apple. (See here for more Information).
What is the age limit for licensed vehicles?
As from 1st January 2026, new hackney carriage or private hire vehicles that are Euro 6 classified, hybrid, electric (EVs) or wheelchair accessible. Existing Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicle that are Diesel or petrol shall be no more than 12 years old on renewal.
When is an MOT required?
An MOT, from any MOT testing station, will be required when the vehicle is first licensed and a six-month MOT for any vehicle over 6-years old.
When should I get my MOT done?
The MOT must be issued no more than fourteen days before submitting an application.
When is an engineers report required?
The vehicle may be insurance category S (formerly Cat C) or category N (formerly Cat D), provided the vehicle has been repaired and an MOT test passed. An independent engineer’s report will be required for a category S before the vehicle is licensed.
Can I replace my vehicle?
Yes, please submit a new application for your new vehicle and put on the application form which vehicle you are replacing.
Will I get a refund for my old vehicle?
Yes, you will automatically be given a refund for any full remaining months after you have returned the plate and discs
Can I get a backing plate for my licence plate?
Yes, they cost £8.00. Please pay here Online.