Private hire vehicle licences
Hackney carriages (taxis) and private hire vehicles (PHVs) are licensed in a similar way, but are subject to different conditions.
If you would like to drive a private hire vehicle, you can apply for a private hire vehicle licence.
Please note that the application process is the same for a new licence, for renewal, for a change, or transfer of vehicle.
Applications are not limited, and can be made at any time of year.
Alongside your application, you must submit your:
- V5 registration book
- a valid car insurance certificate
- a valid MOT certificate
- your radio equipment licence from OFCOM
- your basic disclosure (if you are not already a licensed driver or operator)
We will check the tax status of your vehicle.
Nominated garages
Before we can grant you a licence, your vehicle must go through testing. The table below details our nominated garages within the district:
| Name | Address | Telephone |
|---|---|---|
| Ainger Holbrows | 115 High Street, Hadleigh, Ipswich, IP7 5EJ | 01473 823286 |
| Alpheton Garage | Alpheton, Sudbury, CO10 2YG | 01284 828737 |
| Barrett-Lee | Unit 3 Byford Road, Sudbury, CO10 2YG | 01787 370774 |
| Treadfirst MOT & Service Centre | 4 Martins Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, CO10 2FT | 01787 377342 |
| Windam Garage | 6 Windham Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, CO10 2FT | 01787 372467 |
Plate exemption
If you drive a private hire vehicle and you undertake executive or corporate work, you can apply for plate exemption.
Applications for exemption must be made in writing, and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If your application is granted, your plate must be carried in the boot of your vehicle at at all times.
Apply for a licence
If you would like to apply for a taxi licence, please email licensingteam@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk and request an application form.
Within your email, please state:
- your name and address
- your contact details
- details of which taxi or PHV business you will be linked to, or work for