Taxi licence

Apply for a new taxi driver licence

Find out how to apply for taxi licence.

What you need to do

Step 1: Knowledge course and test

You must go to a knowledge course and pass the test at the end to get a dual badge.

Before you apply

Check these rules before you book:

  • you must have had a full UK driving licence for at least 12 months
  • you must have the right to work in the UK

About the course

Here is what you need to know about the course:

  • the course lasts 5 hours
  • there is a test at the end
  • we will send you information about what you will learn when you book
  • the cost is £70
  • if you fail the test, you must book and pay again
  • you can try 3 times within 6 months

What to bring

You must bring the correct identification:

  • your photo card driving licence
  • if you have an old paper licence, also bring your passport
  • photos of ID will not be accepted

Spaces

Places are limited. Please note:

  • there are 20 places each month
  • you may need to wait for a place

How to book

Green Penny runs the course and test. To book, you can:

Changes or cancellations

If you need to cancel or change your booking:

Do not contact us. We cannot book, change, or cancel for you.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

Once you have successfully passed your knowledge test you will need the following to apply:

If you fail to provide current and up to date documents for all the above, your application will be refused.

How to pay for your assessment

Pay online: select Licensing from the list and then driving assessment payments from the last list.

Once payment has been received, we'll contact you to arrange a date and time for your assessment.

Step 3: Apply for a new driver licence

Apply online for a new driver licence

Step 4: Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) criminal check

After reviewing your application we will register you with one of our partner companies, either GBG Online Disclosures or First Advantage, to carry out a criminal check. Our partner will send you a link to complete an online form.

As this check is completed by a third party, the estimated time frame may vary. Once you have received a copy of your DBS certificate, you must email taxilicensing@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk with the subject line "DBS certificate".

Step 5: Get your badge

After we receive your DBS certificate, we'll review it in line with our criminal conviction policy. If successful, we'll issue you with a dual driver licence badge.

Questions we're often asked

What if I already have a DSA Certificate?

If you already have a certificate that is not with a provider, we recognise you will need to arrange a new practical test.

What if I have already taken a child sexual exploitation course with another council?

If you got a certificate from CYP First, within 6 months of your knowledge test, we'll accept this.

Unfortunately, we won't accept anything else.

How can I find out when the next available child sexual exploitation course dates?

Once you've passed the knowledge test, we'll contact you with a list of dates.

I have a Disclosure Barring Service check done with a different council, would I still need to have another check?

All new drivers are required to undergo an enhanced criminal background check.

Are you signed up to the Disclosure Barring Service's update service and have registered an enhanced DBS certificate, which both:

  • includes either "Taxi Driver" or "Private Hire Driver" under occupation?
  • states "other workforce" along with no further changes?

If you do, we may consider this.

How long will my licence be issued for?

The licence will be granted for 3 years and will fall in line with the expiration date of your DBS certificate.

I have submitted my application but not received a link to complete my online DBS form

We review all applications as quickly as possible. Please allow at least 5 working days to receive this.