You need to apply for a private hire operator licence to run a private hire business in Sheffield. An operator’s licence allows you advertise and accept bookings for private hire work.
You must ensure that you only operate licensed vehicles driven by licensed drivers. The driver, vehicle and operator must all be licensed by us.
You will need an account with our taxi licence portal BigChange to apply for a new licence or renew your existing licence. Before making an application, you should read our Private Hire Operator and Vehicle Policy.
If you’re working as a one-person operator you will need a driver and vehicle licence issued in Sheffield.
Apply for a private hire operator's licence
We use the fit and proper test to help us decide if you can hold an operator's licence. We will consider:
- criminal record
- factors such as non-criminal behaviour, honesty, and integrity
- business practices
- business case
- compliance with legislation, local policy and statutory standards
How much it costs depends on how long you your licence lasts and how many vehicles you will be operating.
| Length of licence | Up to 50 vehicles | More than 50 vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | £563 | £670 |
| 2 years | £763 | £1,070 |
| 3 years | £963 | £1,470 |
| 4 years | £1,163 | £1,870 |
| 5 years | £1,363 | £2,270 |
How to renew your operator licence
We will tell you when your licence needs to be renewed. If you have not received your renewal pack, please contact us.
How much it costs will depend on how long your licence is for and how many vehicles you're operating.
| Length of licence | Up to 50 vehicles | More than 50 vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| 1 years | £415 | £670 |
| 2 years | £615 | £1,070 |
| 3 years | £815 | £1,470 |
| 4 years | £1,015 | £1,870 |
| 5 years | £1,215 | £2,270 |
You can apply or for a new licence or renew your current licence through our taxi licensing portal BigChange.