Becoming a licensed taxi driver in Liverpool is a rewarding career — but the licensing process involves several key stages set by Liverpool City Council. This guide explains each step clearly, in simple language, so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official Liverpool City Council website for the most up-to-date requirements.
Liverpool City Council issues two distinct types of taxi driver licence. Understanding which one you need is the first step.
Allows you to operate a traditional licensed taxi (black cab). You can pick up passengers directly from the street or from designated taxi ranks, as well as taking pre-booked journeys. Hackney carriages are highly regulated and must meet specific vehicle standards.
Allows you to operate as a minicab driver, accepting pre-booked journeys only. You cannot pick up passengers from the street or a rank without a prior booking. You must be affiliated with a licensed private hire operator to take bookings.
Both licences are issued by Liverpool City Council and require passing the same core assessments — including the Knowledge Test.
Before you begin the application process, make sure you meet all of the following requirements set by Liverpool City Council.
Note: certain convictions do not automatically disqualify an applicant. The council reviews each case individually based on the nature, age, and circumstances of the offence.
Here is a clear breakdown of what you need to do, in the order you should do it. Each stage is important — missing a step or submitting incorrect documents will delay your application.
Start by visiting the official Liverpool City Council website and downloading the application form for a new taxi driver licence. The pack includes all the forms you need to complete, along with guidance on what documents to include. Read it carefully before you begin — missing documents are a common cause of delays.
All applicants must undergo a medical examination to demonstrate they are physically fit to carry passengers. The assessment follows DVLA Group 2 standards — the same standard required for HGV and bus drivers. It covers eyesight, cardiovascular health, diabetes, neurological conditions, and general fitness. You must arrange and pay for this yourself through an approved medical practitioner. The completed form is then submitted as part of your application.
All taxi licence applicants must complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This is a thorough criminal record check that includes both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings. Liverpool City Council uses this information to determine whether you are a fit and proper person to carry members of the public. You must apply through an approved umbrella body — the council can advise on this. Processing typically takes one to four weeks.
Before submitting your application, collect all required documents. These typically include: a valid UK or EU driving licence, a passport or birth certificate as proof of identity, a recent utility bill or bank statement as proof of address (dated within three months), proof of your right to work in the UK, and a DVLA check code to share your driving history. Only original documents are accepted — photocopies will be rejected. Liverpool City Council may request additional documentation depending on your circumstances.
The Knowledge Test is the most demanding part of the licensing process — and the one that requires the most preparation. Set by Liverpool City Council, it tests your ability to recall Liverpool's streets, routes, and key landmarks entirely from memory, without a sat-nav or map. You will be asked to describe the correct sequence of streets between locations across the city. Routes must be recalled accurately under exam conditions. Most candidates spend several weeks in structured revision before they feel ready to sit the test.
Once you have completed your medical, your DBS check, and the Knowledge Test, submit your full application to Liverpool City Council Licensing Team along with all required documents and the applicable fee. The council will review your application and, if everything is in order, issue your taxi driver licence. You can then work with a licensed private hire operator or, for hackney drivers, begin operating from ranks.
Preparing your documents in advance will help you avoid delays. All documents must be originals — photocopies will not be accepted.
Full UK or EU/EEA driving licence
Must have been held for at least 12 months
Passport or birth certificate
As proof of identity
Proof of address
Utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months
Proof of right to work in the UK
Visa, settled status, or UK/EU passport
DVLA check code
To share your driving licence history with the council
Completed medical form
Signed by an approved medical practitioner
Enhanced DBS certificate
Applied for through an approved umbrella body
Completed application form
Downloadable from Liverpool City Council website
This guide summarises the licensing process in plain language. For complete, legally accurate, and up-to-date information, always refer directly to Liverpool City Council.
Liverpool City Council – Apply for a New Licence
Official step-by-step guide →
The Knowledge Test is often the biggest hurdle — but with the right preparation, it's very achievable.
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