Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Licensing Policy 2021 to 2026

Note: This document is for guidance only and should be read together with the current Policy and vehicle conditions and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) publication 'MOT Inspection Manual - Private Passenger and Light Commercial Vehicle Testing'.

It shall be the proprietor's responsibility to ensure that their licensed vehicle(s) is roadworthy, maintained to the Council's standards and specifications and is fit for hire and reward purposes at all times. Vehicles must be submitted fully prepared for the test. It is not intended that the test be used in lieu of a regular preventative maintenance programme. If in the opinion of the vehicle examiner the vehicle has not been fully prepared, the test will be terminated and the vehicle failed. Proprietors failing to maintain their vehicles in a safe and roadworthy condition may have their licence(s) suspended or revoked by the Council.

The following parts of the vehicle will be examined and records made:

• vehicle identification number - not more than one different identification number should be present on a vehicle first used on or after 1st August 1980. However, the same number may be displayed in more than one place
• engine number - recorded
• registration plate - condition, security, legibility and format of letters/numbers
• lighting and signalling equipment - condition, operation, security and correct colour. Aim of headlamps correct
• steering and suspension - correct condition and operation
• wipers/washers - operate to give the driver a clear view of the road
• windscreen - condition and driver's view of the road
• horn - correct operation and type
• seatbelts - all seatbelts installed are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seatbelts must be in place
• seats (including any swivel seat when fitted) - security and condition. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position. Clean, free from rips or tears. Colour match
• fuel system - no leaks, fuel cap fastens correctly and seals securely. The fuel cap will need to be opened so make sure the key is available
• exhaust emissions - meets the requirement for exhaust emissions. These vary on the age and fuel type of the vehicle
• exhaust system - complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively
• vehicle body and structure - free from corrosion or damage. No sharp edges. Exceptionally well maintained
• doors - open and close. Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items
• mirrors - presence, condition and security
• wheels and tyres (includes spare) - condition, security, tyre size/type and tread depth
• brakes - condition, operation and performance (efficiency test). Wheels are not removed during the test. The tester only examines what they can see, reach or feel
• vehicle Interior - clean and exceptionally well maintained
• vehicle exterior - uniform colour. No sharp edges. Exceptionally well maintained
• glass - windscreen and front windows - minimum 75% and 70% light transmittance (unless exemption certificate issued)
• fire extinguisher - present, correct type, gauge fitted, BS/EN number present. Identification mark
• first aid kit - present, complete and suitable identification mark
• meter (if fitted) - must be sealed. Meter number is recorded. Accuracy is checked
• spare wheel - present, above legal limit. Same tyre size as other tyres. Space-saver of approved type
• wheel-brace and jack - present
• luggage accommodation - compartment clean, empty and appropriate luggage grill/guard fitted
• interior trim - clean, free from rips or tears
• floor covering - clean. No obstructions
• licence plates - present. Securely attached to vehicle. Correct location on vehicle. In satisfactory condition
• signs/window stickers - present. Fitted correctly. In satisfactory condition, information legible
• for hire sign - present. Works in conjunction with meter and roof-sign
• roof sign (if required) - present. Correct type and size for type of vehicle. Lettering correct size. Works in conjunction with meter and for-hire sign
• advertising - must be approved. Present on body panels other than front doors only
• fare table (dashboard/partition) - present. In satisfactory condition. Most recent issue
• interior door locks (purpose built cabs only) - work in conjunction with footbrake
• ramps - present. Stored securely. Marked with vehicle identification
• odometer - connected. Working. Reading recorded
• oil and water leaks - no oil or water leaks
• towbars and trailers - conditions and suitability