Legal restrictions on issuing a Change of Vehicle 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 can replace an existing licensed vehicle 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. If a licence has expired, you can apply to replace the vehicle using the last licence plate number. The replacement vehicle cannot be used for hire and reward until the process is complete.
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.
- Valid appropriate Private Hire and Reward Insurance for the vehicle.
- The V5C Vehicle Registration Document (pages 1 and 2).
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 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 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 contact 0151 443 2300.
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.