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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. 

Knowledge test guidance 

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. 

Apply to be a licensed driver  

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

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.

Refusals

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.

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 your address  

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 

Complete our contact us form 

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