Before you begin
We aim to process your application within 6 weeks. Please note this is the application stage, the vehicle cannot be used for Hire and Reward until you are in receipt of the licence and plates.
Register for an account to allow the form to be saved as you progress. You can create an account by clicking on the ‘Log in to save’ icon above. Creating an account is free and enables you to return to the form at a later time.
You do not need to create an account to submit the application but you will not be able to save your progress and return to the form.
To continue a previously part-saved application
Click here to continue with a previously part-saved application.
Before completing the application:
Please refer to information and guidance on the Council’s web-page Taxi licensing - Vehicle licence before completing this form.
Important: All vehicles to be licensed as a Hackney Carriage Vehicle must
- Meet the required specifications
- Not be more than 5 years old
- Pass our fitness test
- Not have been written off by an insurer
- Have a valid MOT certificate
- All hackney carriage vehicles are legally required to be wheelchair accessible
- Be fitted with a sealed calibrated meter from an approved supplier.
Current approved meter companies are:
- TS UK Bristol Ltd c/o MAN Truck and Bus, 28 Third Way, Avonmouth, Bristol, BS11 9YS phone: 0117 9717119 email: info@btacbristol.com
- Gardner Taxi Equipment Unit 4, Business Centre, Concorde Drive, Clevedon, BS21 6UH phone: 01275 874578 email: gtes@btinternet.com
Vehicle fitness test
Your vehicle must pass our fitness test before you can apply for your vehicle licence.
Use our checklist to make sure you are ready to book.
To book the test, complete and send a request for a vehicle fitness test form to mot.bookings@southglos.gov.uk
Tests are carried out at our Broad Lane vehicle testing facility and you must apply for a licence within 4 weeks of the date of the vehicle fitness test certificate.
You will need all of the following to complete your application
You will be required to upload digital copies of the following documents in order to be able to successfully submit your application.
- V5 registration document, with the correct taxation class
- Insurance certificate (including hire and reward), valid at licence issue date
- European Certificate of Conformity from the manufacturer or an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)
- An MOT certificate from a DVSA approved testing station dated no more than 4 weeks before the application date
- Meter calibration certificate from an approved meter company
- Fitness test certificate dated no more than 4 weeks before the application date
Help with your application
If you require any further advice please refer to the Taxi and Private Hire licensing web pages. If you are unable to find the information you require then email the team at taxis@southglos.gov.uk or contact us by telephone - 01454 868001