Private Hire Vehicle Licences

Private Hire Vehicle Licences

Summary

Licences are required for vehicles to be used as Private Hire vehicles in the Borough. Licences can be of 6 months or 12 months duration, depending on the age of the vehicle.

Eligibility

Licences may be granted by the Council who are required to be satisfied that vehicles are safe and suitable for the purpose, having regard to the Council's vehicle testing criteria and relevant legislation.

Procedure

A vehicle test to be arranged at the Council's Smithies Lane test facility.

Helplines

Regulatory Services, Licensing Team: 01226 772468 or e-mail: Regulatory Services

Charges/Fees

Vehicle licence administration charge - £46 (annually for vehicles under 5 years old; every 6 months for vehicles over 5 years).

Full inspection fee - £40
Re-test fee - £10

Methods of Payment Available

Cash or cheque to be paid at time of test.

How the customer can help

Insurance to be produced at time or test for Private Hire use.
Vehicles must be presented with door signs in place (trade name / telephone number / advanced booking only signs).

Application Form References

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council Application for Private Hire Vehicle Licence.

Leaflets

Guidance notes.
Vehicle testing criteria.

Distribution Points and Opening Times/Location

The new Licensing Office is now open at the Civic Hall, Eldon Street. Our office at the Civic Hall is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday.
Bus & Train - The Civic Hall, Eldon Street is within easy walking distance of Barnsley Transport Interchange.

Legislation

Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.

Response Times/Next Steps

The test is usually arranged to take place within 10 days, with the licence issued 7 days thereafter.

Out of Hours Procedure

No out of hours procedure for this service.

Contact Details

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Regulatory Services
PO Box 602
Barnsley
S70 9FB

Phone: Regulatory Services 01226 772468
Email: Regulatory Services

Additional Notes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q Is there a limit on the number of Private Hire vehicles that may be licensed?

A No.

Q Can Private Hire vehicles pick up fares on the street and taxi rank?

A No, all work must be pre-booked through the Private Hire operator.

Q What other licences do I need to run a Private Hire business?

A A Private Hire Operators Licence issued by the Council.

Q What fares may be charged, are they regulated?

A Private Hire fares are not fixed by the Council, the fares are at the discretion of the proprietor/operator.