Private hire vehicle licences
Hackney carriages (taxis) and private hire vehicles (PHVs) are licensed in a similar way, but are subject to different conditions.
If you would like to drive a private hire vehicle, you can apply for a private hire vehicle licence.
Please note that the application process is the same for a new licence, for renewal, for a change, or transfer of vehicle.
Applications are not limited, and can be made at any time of year.
Alongside your application, you must submit your:
- V5 registration book
- a valid car insurance certificate
- a valid MOT certificate
- your radio equipment licence from OFCOM
- your basic disclosure (if you are not already a licensed driver or operator)
We will check the tax status of your vehicle.
Nominated garages
Before we can grant you a licence, your vehicle must go through testing. The table below details our nominated garages within the district:
| Name | Address | Telephone |
|---|---|---|
| A & J Motor Services Ltd | Unit 6, Maitland Road, Lion Barn, Needham Market, IP6 8NZ | 01449 723728 |
| D A Bevan | The Workshop, Grove Lane, Elmswell, Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9HN | 01359 241158 |
| Fast Test Stowmarket LLP | Unit 3, Tomo Business Park, Stowmarket, IP14 5EP | 01449 770902 |
| Lindsay Flaxmer Ltd | Unit 9, Progress Way, Mid Suffolk Business Park, Eye, IP23 7HU | 01379 870264 |
Plate exemption
If you drive a private hire vehicle and you undertake executive or corporate work, you can apply for plate exemption.
Applications for exemption must be made in writing, and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If your application is granted, your plate must be carried in your vehicle at at all times.
Apply for a licence
If you would like to apply for a taxi licence, please email licensing@babergh.gov.uk and request an application form.
Within your email, please state:
- your name and address
- your contact details
- details of which taxi or PHV business you will be linked to, or work for