The Council is responsible for the issue of all Driver and Vehicle licences for both Hackney Carriages and Private Hire Vehicles and also Private Hire Operators' licences. It has a duty to ensure that the very highest standards are maintained for the safety and comfort of passengers. The Council carries out a police check on all applicants for Driver licences and the vehicles are inspected regularly.
All drivers of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles are required to be licensed by the Council and must clearly display a numbered photo identity badge. The Hackney Carriage driver's badge and the Private Hire driver's badge and the vehicle badge carry expiry dates.
A rectangular licence plate, bearing the licence number and the number of passengers that can be carried, identifies all licensed vehicles. The plates must be fixed to the rear of the vehicle.
A Hackney Carriage can ply for hire in the street. They are permitted to display "Taxi" and "For Hire" signs.
Private Hire may only carry passengers on journeys that have been pre-booked by phone, or in person at the company base office. They are not allowed to ply for hire, and could invalidate their insurance policy if they take fares that are not booked in advance.
All drivers applying for a licence must have held a full EU driving licence for at least 3 years and the police check must show no relevant criminal convictions or cautions. In cases where there is any doubt as to the suitability of a driver or operator, the issue is referred to the Licensing Panel of the Council, who will consider the case.
Further information about these licences, together with application forms and guidance, is available from the Epping Forest District Council Licensing Section. The Licensing Section may be visited personally at the Civic Offices, High Street, Epping, Essex, CM16 4BZ, Monday - Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm telephone 01992 564034.Essex Online is supported by Epping Forest District Council