Cost to become a taxi or private hire driver
Getting licensed has several upfront costs. Pick your council to prefill the fees we have, then adjust the rest to see your total starting cost.
Estimated cost to get licensed
£603
A guide only — fees vary by council and change over time. This is before your first insurancepremium, which is usually paid separately and varies a lot. Always confirm on your council's official page.
What goes into the cost
The main upfront costs are your driver licence fee, the vehicle licence (if you license your own car), an enhanced DBS check, a medical to the DVLA Group 2 standard, any knowledge, topographical or SERU test fee, and sometimes a BTEC or training course. On top of that you'll need hire-and-reward insurance, which is quoted separately.
For the exact fees in your area, open your council page, and read the full cost guide for typical ranges.