How to Apply for a Wolverhampton Private Hire Vehicle Licence
Step-by-step guide to licensing a private hire vehicle with City of Wolverhampton Council: vehicle rules, insurance, compliance test, plates and tips.
Video guide
Step by step
- 1
Check the vehicle meets policy
Check the council's vehicle policy for age limits on first licensing and renewal, emissions standards, seating, doors and body type before you buy or finance a car.
- 2
Get your V5C and documents ready
You need the V5C log book (or proof of purchase / finance agreement allowing private hire use) and a current MOT where required.
- 3
Arrange hire and reward insurance
Get private hire (hire and reward) insurance covering the vehicle and the licensed driver(s). Standard social insurance is not acceptable.
- 4
Pass the compliance test
Book the council compliance / vehicle inspection at an approved testing centre. Tyres, lights, bodywork, interior, window tint and safety equipment are checked.
- 5
Apply online and pay
Submit the vehicle application on the council licensing portal with the V5C, insurance, test pass and fee.
- 6
Fit plates and signage
Fit the issued external plate and internal licence correctly, plus any required door signs. Never drive for hire without valid plates displayed.
Tips & pointers
- Common test failures: worn tyres, warning lights on dash, chips in the windscreen, dark window tint, missing spare/first-aid kit if required. Fix them before the test.
- Book your renewal test well before the plate expires — a gap means you can't work.
- Check the vehicle age limits before buying; an older car may only get a short licence or none at all.
- Keep insurance documents in the vehicle and send renewals to the council on time.
- Report accidents and changes (owner, registration, insurance) to the council within the required time.
Official council pages & guidance
Always check the council's own pages for current rules, fees and forms.
Need advice on your situation?
WhatsApp consultations from £15 for 10 minutes, covering any licence.
Book a consultationIndependent guide: SAFERIDE AIRPORT TAXIS LIMITED and FareTaxMate are not affiliated with, endorsed by or acting for City of Wolverhampton Council. We are an independent licensed operator sharing our experience. Applications are made directly to the council.
These guides are general information based on City of Wolverhampton Council's licensing process and may change. Always check the council's current policy and fees. They are not legal advice. We are not affiliated with City of Wolverhampton Council.