We are responsible for licensing:
- hackney carriage vehicles
- private hire vehicles
- drivers
- private hire operators
This is to ensure that we safeguard members of the public who choose to use the service offered by this trade. Before drivers are issued with a licence they have to successfully pass a knowledge test and driving assessment, and have a CRB and DVLA check. This all helps us to determine if they are a fit and proper person, after which the licence is either granted or refused. Vehicles must have a recent MOT and comply with current conditions before a licence and plates can be issued.
If you wish to apply to become a licensed driver or licence a vehicle please click on the appropriate link on this page, where you will be given more details on how to apply, application packs and the fee payable.
Trade forums
Regular forums are held for trade to attend. This is an opportunity to discuss with us any issues that they feel need raising. Please look on the forums page to see the location, day and time of the next meetings.
The difference between hackney carriage and private hire vehicles
Many people are unaware of the difference between the two vehicle licences we issue, and that if the vehicle is operating outside of its licence conditions this can invalidate the insurance and put the customer at serious risk. The differences between them are as follows:
Hackney carriage vehicles:
- Can ply for hire, stand on a rank and be hailed on the street
- Must display white council identification plates internally and externally
- Must have a roof sign with the word TAXI on it
- Have a calibrated fare meter and a Shropshire Council fare card
Private hire vehicles:
- Must be pre-booked and controlled by a private hire operator
- Cannot ply for hire, stand on a rank or be hailed on the street
- Must display yellow council identification plates internally and externally
Making a complaint about a licensed driver or vehicle
Should you wish to make a complaint about a driver or vehicle it would be useful if you could supply us with as many of the following details as possible:
- The registration number or plate number of the vehicle
- The driver's badge number if possible
- A physical description of the driver
- The name of the company
All these points will help us to trace the driver and vehicle.
Complaints can be made in writing, in person, by email or telephone.