A taxi base operator licence, also known as a private hire operator (PHV) licence, is required to operate a taxi or PHV dispatch service in UK. This licence allows you to accept bookings, coordinate drivers, and operate a taxi dispatch service, but does not allow you to pick up passengers from the street.
Key Aspects of a Taxi Base Operator Licence:
- Requirements: You must be a “fit and proper” person, and if operating as a company or partnership, all individuals involved must also be “fit and proper”.
- Application: You can apply for a taxi operator licence online.
- Licence Duration: PHV operator licences typically last for a maximum of 5 years.
- Restrictions: PHV operators can only operate with pre-booked passengers.
- Renewal: You need to renew your licence before it expires.