web
You’re offline. This is a read only version of the page.
close

Taxis and private hire

Hackney Carriages and private hire operators, vehicles and drivers are licenced by the council.

The purpose of licensing is to ensure the safety of the public. We do this by checking drivers and operators are fit and proper, and the vehicles are safe, suitable and reliable.

Taxi licensing policy
Licensing fees
Public Register
Taxis and private hire​ driver licences

Information for those wanting to become a licenced driver. A driver licence is issued for three years.

Vehicle licences

Vehicles which are being used as taxis (Hacknet Carriages) or private hire vehicles must be licensed by us. A licence is issued for one year.

Operator licences (private hire)

A private hire operator's licence is required to take bookings and dispatch private hire vehicles to customers. The licence is issued for 5 years.

Taxi and private hire complaints

Let us know if you have a complaint or a compliment for a licenced driver or private hire operator.

Wheelchair accessible vehicles

All licensed vehicles must be able to carry a wheelchair (folded and stored in the boot), mobility aids and assistance dogs free of charge unless the driver holds a medical exemption. 

Information for licence holders

Find more on information on NR3S database and what changes you need to tell us about.

Taxi fares

We set the amount a taxi can charge for a journey, not private hire vehicles. The taxi fare will be displayed upon the taximeter in the vehicle. 

Learn more
Taxi ranks

Designated taxi ranks can be found in Colchester City Centre. These can only be used by Colchester City Council Hackney Carriages (Taxis).

Learn more
Road closures

Find out if your journey could be affected by local road closures. 

Learn more