Operator licences for running a private hire or taxi business in London

    To become a taxi driver you need to be aged 21 or over and have a Transport for London (TfL) drivers licence. To run a private hire business you will need 1 of 2 driver’s licences.

    The 2 types of driver’s licences are:

    • a small operator’s licence – up to 2 vehicles for private hire bookings
    • a standard operator’s licence – as many vehicles as you like

    Each licence has a fee and lasts for 5 years.

    You can be prosecuted if you receive payment for taking bookings or supply drivers for hire without an operator’s licence.

    Taxi drivers

    You will need to apply for a drivers licence for private hire or taxis issued by Transport for London (TfL).

    Getting a private hire operator licence in London

    If you want to run a business as a private hire operator in London, you will need to get an operator’s licence for private hire or taxis from TfL. This includes businesses such as driving a minicab or stretch limousine.

    You’ll also need a vehicle licence for private hire or taxis for your taxi and a driver’s licence.