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 (Hackney 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. Taxi ranks Designated taxi ranks can be found in Colchester City Centre. These can only be used by Colchester City Council Hackney Carriages (Taxis). Road closures Find out if your journey could be affected by local road closures.
