What Are the Different Types Of Operators Licences Available?

Whatever type of private hire service you intend to provide you will need to be licensed before you start operating. Anyone who receives payment for taking bookings or supplying drivers for hire without an operator’s licence is breaking the law and may be prosecuted.

There are two types of operator licence that can be applied for:

Small:
you can use a maximum of two licensed private hire vehicles to undertake bookings.

Standard:
There is no restriction on the number of licensed private hire vehicles you can use to undertake bookings.

It is important to note that once you decide which option is best for you; this cannot be easily reversed if you change your mind.  You will need to re-apply and go through the whole application process from the start. It is advisable to think about your plans carefully and any intention to expand your business in the future.  There is no difference in the application process apart from the cost, with the standard operator licence costing nearly twice as much as the cost of a small licence.

What Are the Requirements for Successfully Applying for an Operator’s Licence?

PCO Operators must comply with the fit and proper person criteria.  There is a specific form pertaining to these criteria in the application pack – the PHV/103 also known as a Personal Declaration Form.  In this form you show that you have complied with all the legal requirements connected to running a business.  This form covers areas such as bankruptcy, convictions etc., but you should remember to fill out the form truthfully as falsifying information could not only mean that you lose your licence, but are faced with a serious legal battle.

What are the Premises criteria?

• At least one ‘operating centre’ in London. This is the premises where you will take bookings. Your operating centre could be an office, a unit in the high street or your home address. For addresses outside Greater London, you must obtain a licence from the local council.
• Proof of planning permission or a certificate of lawful use for your proposed premises from your local authority. Where planning permission isn’t required, you must provide written confirmation (email or letter) from the local authority. The document must be clearly linked to the address of the proposed premises. Any breach of planning legislation could result in your local council taking enforcement action against you.
• If the operating centre’s primary use is for another business, you’ll need to provide further information about the operating centre. Please see our guidance notes for further information on this.
• A fixed landline telephone number for bookings. A licence cannot be issued without this.