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  10. Private Hire Operator

Private Hire Operator

All Private Hire Operators must be licensed by us (South Holland District Council). This ensures the passengers are confident of using a reputable company with reliable drivers and vehicles. A private hire vehicle must be driven by a licensed driver working for a private hire operator. A private hire operator's licence is issued for five years. Private hire operator conditions (PDF, 327 KB)(opens new window) are imposed on a licence.

All Hackney Carriages, Private Hire Vehicles and Operator's Booking Offices are required to be smoke-free. Please read our guidance on smoke free environments (PDF, 31 KB)(opens new window).

Before making your application, please refer to the following guidelines:

  • Private hire operators can arrange pre-booked private hire vehicles only (use our hackney carriage and private hire vehicle checker)
  • the operator must keep records on all vehicles, drivers and bookings
  • records must be kept and maintained for a period of at least one year
  • the operator must ensure all drivers and vehicles owned, controlled or operated by them are licensed and complying with conditions of their licence
  • must have the right to work in the UK and must provide documentation to prove this, to be licensed as a private hire operator

If you wish to operate from a premises which will be used as a booking office, you will need to obtain planning permission. If the public will have access to the premises, you'll also need to hold public liability insurance.

If you are not currently a vehicle proprietor or licensed private hire driver, you'll need to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) basic disclosure (opens new window).

It is illegal for a driver to refuse to carry a guide or assistance dog unless the driver has a medical exemption certificate issued by us. Drivers that refuse to carry a guide or assistance dog, and do not have an exemption certificate, could face a fine of up to £1000 following a conviction at the Magistrates Court.

Apply for a private hire operator licence

To apply for a private hire operator licence please submit the following documents: 

Your completed application form and stated supporting documents can be emailed to licensing@sholland.gov.uk or handed into our Council Offices reception(address below). Applications will not be deemed completed without producing these documents. 

South Holland District Council
Council Offices
Licensing Team
Priory Road
Spalding
PE11 2XE

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