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How to apply for a Reading taxi driver’s licence

For a new licence, pass the tests first, then apply to the council with your certificates. This page summarises Reading Borough Council’s steps. Taxi Prep does not process applications.

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Step 1

Knowledge and location test

Reading Borough Council publishes revision packs. Use the pack that matches the licence you will apply for — the test paper is different.

Private hire pre-test pack (PDF) Hackney carriage pre-test pack (PDF)

When you are ready, pay the council’s current test fee of £43. Tell Reading Borough Council which licence you are applying for, plus your full name, date of birth and address. The council then books the next available test date.

Pay the knowledge test fee

Step 4

Safeguarding

Reading Borough Council requires its own safeguarding certificate. Applicants pay and book through Eventbrite for “Safeguarding training for taxi drivers”. Taxi Prep does not host this training.

  • Should have been completed within the last 3 months, in line with the licence.
  • The council also accepts certificates dated up to 12 months previously.

Step 5

Supporting documents

Upload these with the application to Reading Borough Council.

DBS check

Current council fee: £57.90. Reading Borough Council starts an Enhanced DBS check and emails you a link to complete.

  1. Wait for the DBS certificate.
  2. Within 30 days of the issue date, sign up to the DBS Update Service using the certificate reference number.
  3. Generate a check code and give it to Reading Borough Council so it can check every six months, in line with statutory taxi and private hire vehicle standards .

If you already have a valid Enhanced DBS certificate dated within 6 months, the council says it can accept that and you do not need to pay this fee.

Also upload

  • UK passport photo. Without a UK passport: a right-to-work check and a 5-year address history. For years lived outside the UK, a certificate of good conduct from that country.
  • DBS Online Update Service check code
  • Tax code
  • DVLA photocard — both sides
  • Recent colour passport-style photo (plain light background; no hats unless a religious head garment)
  • DVLA check code from View your driving licence — case-sensitive, exact, valid for 21 days and one use

Extra

Private hire, executive and school transport

These applications also need confirmation from the operator you will work for, on letterhead or by email to [email protected]. It must include the trading name and address, the operator’s licence holder, your full name, and confirmation you will work for them once licensed.