Legal restrictions on issuing a New Private Hire Vehicle Licence
We can legally only issue licences for Private Hire 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.
Booking a vehicle test or retest
Before a vehicle is first 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.
New first time licence applications for compliance tests can be booked at any time. If the vehicle is less than eight years old at the date of licensing it will be eligible for a 12-month licence. If it is more than eight years old, it will only be eligible for a 6-month licence.
If you are unsure if the vehicle is suitable for licensing to the Knowsley standard, please enquire by emailing [email protected] before incurring any expense. Any costs relating to an unsuitable vehicle are the applicant’s responsibility.
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.
If you need help with uploading your evidence, watch the video below:
Receiving the New licence and Plates
Once payment has been received, licences will be issued as a pdf via email. Your declared Private Hire Operator will also receive a copy of the licence. The 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 in submitting a vehicle for test where the vehicle is found unfit will not be refunded under any circumstances.