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 driverÂs 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 operatorÂs 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.