Taxi FAQs 

What is the difference between a Hackney Carriage and a Private Hire vehicle?

A hackney carriage can be hailed by passengers in the street and uses a meter. It will have a yellow licence plate and a for hire sign on the roof.  A Private Hire vehicle can only be prebooked and is therefore not allowed to ply for hire on the streets or ranks. They will display a blue plate.

If you do not believe a vehicle, or driver, is licensed you are strongly encouraged not to travel with them. Remember that an unlicensed vehicle carrying passengers for hire or reward will not be insured. Also, if the driver is not licensed he will not have been through our vetting procedure.

How many passengers can a vehicle carry?

This will be determined on an individual basis depending on the type of vehicle and will be between 4 and 8. The number of permitted passengers will be shown on the licence plates. Exceeding these numbers will invalidate the insurance.

How can I make a complaint about a hackney carriage or private hire vehicle/driver?

If you are unfortunate enough to have cause for complaint about a Melton Borough Council licence holder, you may choose to take up your complaint with the driver or business directly or alternatively take note of the drivers name and badge number, vehicle plate number and/or vehicle registration number and contact us by telephone: 01664 502502 or in writing to the usual address. 

Does the Council have a policy on the maximum number of vehicles or drivers it will licence?

There are no limits within the borough.

What fares can be charged?

 Fares charged on a hackney carriage meter are set out in the Hackney carriage fare card which is determined by the Council. A copy must be displayed in the Hackney Carriage vehicle. It is also available on this website.

Private Hire vehicles will not have a meter and accordingly fares should be agreed in advance with the passenger.  A vehicle licensed as a Hackney Carriage can undertake Private Hire work but can charge no more than the fare on the meter.

What should I do if I think a vehicle or driver is unlicensed?

You should make a note of the details and (if you are able to straight away) report it to the Police and Melton Borough Council’s Licensing Enforcement Officer via the contact details below.

How is the licence renewed?

We will write to licence holders at least one month before the expiry of the licence and provide the requisite forms. However, it is still your responsibility to ensure you are properly licensed.

If you do not wish to renew your licence please let us know. You must also return your badge, plates and licence to us.

How much will the medical cost and do I have to go to my own GP?

There is no fixed fee for the medical examination. The Council provides the questionnaire but it is up to the applicant to make the appointment and meet the costs. The applicant may choose any medical doctor to carry out the examination.

How long does the medical certificate last for?

A medical certificate lasts for 3 years. However, once the driver reaches the age of 65 we require an annual medical to be taken before the licence can be renewed.

Do I have to declare all convictions on the licence application form?

Yes, without any exceptions, including on subsequent renewal applications. Each application will be considered on its individual merits. We will only consider your application once a fully completed application form has been submitted to us along with the fee.    

I have endorsements on my driving licence. Will that matter?

Each application will be considered on its individual merits. Please note that we are unable to prejudge a case without a formal application.  This includes payment of the fee.

How do I apply for the Criminal Records Bureau check?

Please contact us to obtain the CRB application form and guidance notes. We are unfortunately unable to put these on the website for downloading at this stage.

Please follow the instructions on the form. There is no need to complete sections E or F. Once complete please bring the form into the Council Offices along with a cheque for £36 for and enhanced check and £26 for a standard check. You must also bring in at least three pieces of valid identification, ideally your driving licence, passport and a recent utility bill with your address on. Please refer to the guidance book accompanying the CRB form for a full list of acceptable ID.  

Please be aware that CRB certificates can take many weeks to be returned to us and we are unable to issue licences without it, so please allow plenty of time for its return.

I have been turned down for a licence. What can I do?

You have the right of appeal to the Taxi Licensing Committee. Details of the time period within which you must apply for an appeal will be sent to you.