Licence - Private Hire Operator's Licences

Information about Private Hire Operator’s Licences.

A Private Hire Operator's licence is required to enable a person to accept or invite bookings for Private Hire Vehicles.

One person can be licensed and employ/sub-contract an unlimited number of licensed vehicles. However, a licensed Private Hire Driver cannot accept any bookings unless he either holds or works for a licensed Private Hire Operator. An Operator may pass a booking to another licensed Private Hire Vehicle Operator provided that the Operator is also licensed by Solihull Council.

Before an Operator's Licence is granted, the applicant must satisfy the Council that the address from which they intend to operate is suitable and, where applicable, satisfy any conditions that may be attached to the licence in order not to disturb the ambience of the area.

How do I get an Operator's licence?

Anyone who wishes to accept pre-booked hirings must hold a Private Hire Operators' licence.

Before a licence can be issued the Council must be satisfied that the applicant is a 'fit and proper' person to hold such a licence.

New applicants must:

• Have premises in the borough of Solihull with appropriate planning permission granted
• Complete an application form
• Give 2 suitable names for reference purposes
• Attend a meeting with a Licensing Officer
• Pay the fee

Applicants must contact the Planning Department on 0121 704 6377, to obtain planning permission, or confirmation in writing that planning permission is not required.

You should then make an appointment to see a Licensing Officer to discuss your business plans and any queries relating to the relevant legislation and law concerned with operating Private Hire vehicles.

The licence will normally be issued for 12 months and must be renewed prior to its expiry.

Appointments and interviews can be arranged through the main office in the Council House where the Licensing Enforcement Officers are based.

The address is:

Trading Standards & Licensing
PO Box 1833
Council House
Solihull B91 9DZ

Telephone: 0121 704 8003

Fax: 0121 704 6888

Email: connectcc@solihull.gov.uk

Guidelines for Operators

As a licensed Operator you must:

• Maintain accurate records for 6 months which show details of the bookings taken and the driver/vehicle which carried out the booking
• Maintain records of the particulars of all vehicles operated by him and ensure compliance, at all times, with the conditions of their licence
• Retain the licence of all Private Hire Drivers engaged by him/her
• Retain the licence of all Private Hire Vehicles engaged by him/her
• Retain copies of current insurance for all Private Hire Vehicles engaged by him/her
• Carry out a prompt, efficient and reliable service to the public
• Report any conviction (motoring or otherwise) imposed to the Licensing office within 7 days
• Report any change of address in writing to the Licensing office