Taxi licences

To drive a taxi or private hire vehicle you will need a licence both for you individually and the vehicle itself. This page explains how to apply for a licence as a driver. If you need to a licence for a vehicle, visit the relevant page in this guide.

Before you apply

You will first need to read the Newark and Sherwood District Council Taxi Policy 2023 (PDF, 1.4mb). 

If you believe that you meet all its necessary criteria, you should download and complete the driver application form 2024 (PDF, 717kb).

Make an application

Once you have filled out the application form you will then need to make an in-person appointment with the licensing team at Castle House, Great North Road, Newark, NG24 1BY. To make an appointment, contact us using the details at the bottom of this page.

There is a fee of £240 to pay for your application at your appointment.

Application process

It can take us around 6 to 8 weeks to process your application.

During this period you will need to: 

• take a knowledge test (example questions are available in this information sheet (PDF, 404kb))
• take an ability test in the form of a practical driving test (PDF, 516kb) 
• undergo a Group 2 DVLA standard medical conducted by our medical adviser
• pass a DBS check 
• pass DVLA checks
• prove that you have the right to work in the UK

If we’re satisfied that you’re a fit and proper person following these tests and checks, we will grant the application and issue a 3-year licence. If you have not met the requirements, the matter will be referred to the general purposes committee for a hearing.

The driver’s licence we issue entitles the holder to drive both private hire vehicles and hackney carriages.