Private Hire Drivers Licence
To drive a Private Hire Vehicle within Wolverhampton you must apply to us for a licence.
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What are the conditions of the licence?
Applicants must have held a valid driving licence for a minimum period of 12 months.
Then the following four processes need to be successfully completed before a licence can be granted:
Enhanced criminal record check
Applicants will need to complete an enhanced disclosure form which will be sent on to the Criminal Records Bureau.
Driver training and theoretical tests
A one day training course on issues such as customer care, disability awareness, licensing conditions and communication. This will culminate in a theoretical test and will require a good standard of written and verbal English.
Practical driving test
After successfully passing the driver training day, applicants will be tested on their driving ability, this test will last for one and a half hours.
Medical examination
The final stage of the application process is the completion of a medical examination. This should only be done when instructed to do so.
It is necessary to ensure that applicants meet the Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) group 2 standards of medical fitness. Information about fitness to drive is available from the DVLA.
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How will my application be determined?
Applications must be submitted in person via a pre-arranged appointment. An assessment of the application will be made by a Licensing Officer who will take payment for the application.
Failure to complete any of the four application elements above, may result in the applicant being referred to the Licensing Committee.
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New applications will be issued for a 1 year period. Renewal applications can be issued for 1 or 3 year periods. 3 year renewals will require a further medical and CRB check as part of the application process.
For full details, see our table of drivers fees.
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How do I apply?
Apply online
You cannot currently apply and pay for your licence online:
Application form
Please read the guidance sheet contained in the application form below.
For a new application a CRB form must also be submitted along with identification documents. CRB check must be renewed on a 3 year basis.
You can obtain a CRB form in advance from us at the points below or complete one when you submit your application.
To download the private hire drivers licence application form, click on the relevant PDF icon below:
If you require more information please contact City Direct below.
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You may be required to provide further information or evidence if your application is referred to the Licensing Committee.
Returning your application
You will need to make an appointment with us to return your application. Contact us via City Direct to make an appointment.
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New Applications
We will process your application and tell you the outcome within 40 working days.
Renewals
We will process your application and tell you the outcome within 28 working days.
If your application is refused, you have the right of appeal to Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court within 21 days of the decision.
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How do I tell you about a change that could affect my licence?
If circumstances change regarding your licence, contact us using the details below
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What if I have a complaint or concern?
As a member of the public, if you have a complaint or are concerned about a Private Hire driver, please contact City Direct. Complaints will be forwarded to Public Protection and all complaints will be considered.
Anonymous calls will be accepted, however we would prefer callers to provide their contact details in order for further information to be obtained if necessary.
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Where can I get further information?
· Private Hire Vehicle Licensing
· (DVLA) - Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority
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You can enquire at the Civic Centre reception desk (14) from Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 5pm and Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm.
To find out more about Private Hire Drivers, contact us on:
e-mail: city.direct@wolverhampton.gov.uk
Phone: 01902 551155
Minicom: 01902 555554
Fax: 01902 551195
Write:
Licensing Services
Education & Enterprise
Wolverhampton City Council
Civic Centre, St. Peter's Square
Wolverhampton
WV1 1DA
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