Purbeck Zone - apply for a taxi or private hire vehicle licence

Our Licensing Policy sets out the requirements of applicants.

Apply for a driver's licence

Before you apply, you should read the Hackney Carriage/Private Hire Drivers Licensing Procedure.

You'll need to provide:

• payment of the licence fee

• a medical form completed by a doctor

• Driver Safeguarding Awareness Training

• Enhanced DBS certificate
• proof of completed driving assessment, carried out by one of our approved taxi driving assessors

Knowledge and suitability interview

You'll also need to attend and pass the knowledge and suitability interview. The interview is in two parts and conducted in English. 

If you are applying for a Private Hire Vehicle Drivers Licence, you'll only need to sit the second part of the knowledge and suitability interview.

The first part tests your knowledge of streets, locations, attractions, entertainment venues and general geography of the area. You'll need to identify the location of at least 3 popular destinations and accurately describe at least 3 routes between given locations.

The second part tests your knowledge of relevant regulations, numeracy, and character. It will also help us to assess your general suitability. You'll be required to answer a series of questions based on the Licensing Policy and Guidance.

Complete the application form

Complete the driver's licence application form and return it to us. 

Apply for a vehicle licence

You'll need to provide:

• payment of the licence fee

• the inspection report and MOT certificate from an approved garage

Vehicles can be tested at the following garages:

Contact the garage for their fees.

Complete the application form

Complete the vehicle licence application form and return it to us. 

Transfer a licensed vehicle 

If you sell or transfer your vehicle you need to let us know by completing the Transfer of Interest in a Licensed Vehicle application form

Apply for a private hire operator licence

You'll need to provide payment of the licence fee.

Complete the private hire operators licence application form and return it to us.

Licence fees

Vehicle licence

Drivers licence

Renewals

Operators licence

Taxi fares

View the taxi fares and charges.

Register of licensed drivers, vehicles and private hire operators

View the register of licensed drivers

View the register of licensed vehicles

View the register of licensed private hire operators

Contact us

Westport House opening hours