Legal restrictions on issuing a Change of Vehicle Hackney Vehicle Licence
We can legally only issue licences for Hackney Carriage (taxi) vehicles if we are completely satisfied that the vehicle is comfortable, safe in design and adequately insured. These legal requirements are set to ensure high standards of safety for the public. To see the required standard please download The Current Vehicle Testing Scheme and list of acceptable vehicles.
Booking a vehicle test or retest
Before a replacement vehicle is licensed it must pass a compliance test at the council's appointed garage. A Taxi/Private Hire Vehicle Compliance Test can only be booked through Knowsley Council Online Services.
Change of vehicle licence applications for compliance tests can be booked at any time whilst the existing vehicle is licensed. Expired licences cannot be changed to another vehicle without the prior approval of a Licensing Chairperson’s Hearing.
The test includes all current DVSA vehicle test items plus some additional licensing compliance requirements.
When you book a test, you will be required to pay the fee of £45 by card. You will receive an email confirmation which will include a unique application reference number.
You will need this reference number to complete the licensing process.
Completing the Licensing Process
Whilst you are waiting for the test or once the vehicle has passed you will need to upload the following documents to the Council Upload Evidence Portal.
When you have uploaded your documents and we have checked them you then use the online payment portal to pay the fee due (before or after test). You must always quote your unique reference number as shown on the test booking email when you pay the licence fee. If your payment is successful, you and the licensing team will both receive an email confirmation.
Receiving the renewed licence and plates
Once payment has been received, licences will be issued as a pdf via email. If you have listed either a radio circuit or Private Hire Operator, they will also receive a copy of the licence. The new large and small licence plates will be posted out to you for display on the vehicle.
If you have not been contacted within 10 working days of submitting a valid application, please email [email protected] quoting your unique reference number.
You will always be charged for missed appointments.
Expenses incurred when submitting a vehicle for test where the vehicle is found unfit will not be refunded under any circumstances.