If you want to take bookings or supply drivers for hire then you will need a PCO Operators License, this could be a minicab office on the high street or even if you are offering a one-man chauffeur service, either way you need to be licensed.
Types of license – Small & Standard
There are two types of operator’s license and you need to decide which best fits you:
- ‘small’ operator’s license – These may only have a maximum of two private hire vehicles available for use at any one time.
- ‘standard’ operator’s license – You can have any number of private hire vehicles on a ‘standard’ license.
Once you’ve decided which best describes you and have got your license there is no way you change change it without gong through the entire application process so think of what your plans are for the future (next 5 years) and whether you are thinking of expanding your business. This only difference in these applications are the price, with a ‘standard’ license costing double what a ‘small’ license costs.
Requirements
Fit and Proper Person
All applicants must show they are a ‘fit and proper’ person by completing the PHV 103 Personal Declaration Form where you show that you have complied with other legal requirements connected with running a business. The form will ask you about any previous criminal convictions, if you have ever been declared bankrupt, etc, but please ensure you fill the form in correctly as also false information could lead to the removal of your license and legal proceedings against you.
Premises
Before you can apply you must also have at least one provisional ‘operating centre’ in London where you will be taking bookings and this could simply be a high street office or even your home address but ensure that you have the relevant planning permission to do this from these premises.
How much does the PCO Operators License Cost?
The total cost of the license depends of which type you apply for with the ‘Standard’ costing twice as much as the ‘Small’ license.
Small Operators License (valid 5 years)
- License Application Fee = £703
- Grant of License Fee = £550
- Total = £1,253
Standard Operators License (valid 5 years)
- License Application Fee = £703
- Grant of License Fee = £1,707
- Total = £2,410
You will need to send these fees in a single payment with your application form, and please note that the application fee in both instances is non-refundable so if your operators licence application is rejected then you will only receive the grant of license fee back.
How do I apply for an Operators License?
All the forms for your application are available to download below, and you will need:
- A fully completed application form (PHV/101).
- A fully completed personal declaration form (PHV/103) from each person named on the application form.
- A payment for the application fee (you can put your credit/debit card details on the form or send a banker’s draft or building society cheque)
Completed applications should be sent to:
PHV Operator Licensing Section
London Taxi and Private Hire
Palestra
4th Floor (Yellow Zone)
197 Blackfriars Road
London SE1 8NJ