East Lothian Council taxi & private hire licence

To drive a private hire vehicle (or hackney carriage / taxi) in this area you must hold a driver licence issued by East Lothian Council. Below is a clear summary of what you need, what it costs, and how to apply.

A medical assessment is required for applicants aged 45 and over.

What you generally need

Requirements vary from council to council, but to get a private hire or taxi driver licence in the UK most authorities expect you to:

• be a “fit and proper person”, confirmed by an enhanced DBS check;
• hold a full driving licence (often for at least 12 months) and prove your right to work in the UK;
• meet a medical standard, commonly the DVLA Group 2 standard;
• pass any knowledge or topographical test the council sets, and sometimes an English language or safeguarding assessment;
• for the vehicle: a licensed, inspected car with hire-and-reward insurance.

East Lothian Council publishes the exact list that applies in this area, so always confirm on their official page before you apply. Our step-by-step guide covers the whole process, and the DBS & medical guide explains those checks in detail.

Tests you might need to pass

Many councils require a local knowledge test or a topographical map-reading assessment, and some ask for an English language or safeguarding awareness check. East Lothian Council confirms which apply to you.

You can prepare for free with our practice tests: Highway Code & road law, topographical skills, Level 2 (BTEC). See all practice tests.

How to apply

Applications are made directly to East Lothian Council. In most areas you complete their driver application, provide your DBS, medical and documents, pass any required test, and pay the fee. Use the official link below to begin, and see our full how-to guide for what to expect at each step.