Private hire and taxi driver licence
If you want to drive a private hire or hackney carriage vehicle in the Borough, you will need a driver licence from Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.
New applicants, licensed trade and members of the public can read the Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Licensing Policy for full details.
Before you apply
Training
Dementia and Pan-disability awareness sessions
This is an face to face awareness raising session for licensed drivers. It is a requirement for existing drivers to complete free annual refresher training.
Apply for the Dementia and Pan-disability session
Safeguarding awareness training
This is an e-learning package developed by the four Tees Valley Authorities with Barnardo's. It is a minimum training requirement for taxi drivers, private hire drivers and operators.
Register and complete the safeguarding training
Knowledge test
This is an online multiple-choice test. You will need to demonstrate good local knowledge of the Stockton-on-Tees area including key buildings such as hospitals and schools.
If you already have a private hire licence and would like to change to a hackney carriage or combined licence, you will apply for a knowledge test as part of your application to change the type of licence you hold to private hire, hackney carriage or combined.
Tees Valley taxi driving assessment course
This is a practical driving test. You will need to demonstrate you can safely drive with the comfort of passengers in mind, drive to existing road conditions and obey all traffic signs, orders and speed limits.
Find out more about this test and how to apply
How to apply
You will need to provide proof of your right to work in the UK as part of your application. View the government right to work guidance.
What happens next?
After you have submitted your application form, we will send you a medical form that you and your GP need to complete and return.
If you have not completed a knowledge test before applying, we will send you details of your knowledge test appointment.
If you are not in the DBS update service, you will need to complete an online DBS application.
You will need to call 01642 524802 to make an appointment for your DBS and right to work documents to be verified.
Tacit consent does not apply in respect of these applications. Tacit consent means that if we have not dealt with licence applications within the target period then the application can be deemed to have been granted or approved. It is in the public interest that we process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within 10 working days, contact us on 01642 524802 or licensing.administration@stockton.gov.uk.Tacit consent
If we refuse your application, you may be able to appeal this decision to the Magistrates' Court or First-Tier Tribunal. Full details will be included in any refusal notice.Refusals
Renew your driver licence
Renew a private hire, hackney carriage or combined driver licence
Annual declaration and convictions
Submit your annual declaration
Report a motoring conviction, criminal conviction or caution
Tell us about your licence
Change the type of licence you hold
Tell us what private hire operator you will be working for
If you:
- need to return or surrender your licence
- have an enquiry about something else
Order replacements
Replace driver badges or driver record card
Replace your dash display wallet, docu-dash clip, lanyard, tariff card or plate bracket
Contact us
Contact the Licensing Team for advice on any licence or to make a complaint about a licensed business. Phone: 01642 524802 Email: licensing.administration@stockton.gov.uk