Guide for New Taxi Drivers

Guide for new taxi drivers in Milton Keynes

This guide should provide you with all the help and information you need to apply to work as a licensed taxi driver in Milton Keynes. If you still have any questions or queries email us 

Alternatively you can book an appointment to speak to one of the Council’s taxi licensing assistants for application advice. There is a charge of £20 for this service.

MK Council’s Taxi Licensing Service (TLS) is the independent regulator and not the employer of licensed drivers. This booklet is designed to provide all the information you need to become a licensed Private Hire or Hackney Carriage driver in Milton Keynes.

MK Council is responsible for granting taxi licences for Hackney Carriages and Private Hire vehicles (taxis) within the borough of Milton Keynes. Licensed taxi drivers may be required to drive vulnerable people around MK including children and disabled passengers.

We need to make sure that any driver with an MK badge and plate on their vehicle has met the standards we set, as this assures the public that they are safe to be with you and your vehicle is safe to travel in. The application process is designed for you to show that you meet these high standards. If you do not wish to undertake any part of the application process you should not apply for a licence.

Our legal duty is to only grant a licence if we are satisfied that an applicant is suitable to be a taxi driver. The application process is designed to help the Council make this decision based on evidence and information received. It is important that we make these checks to ensure that people feel safe when using a taxi to travel. Make sure you read this guide thoroughly and follow all the instructions so you are aware of what you need to do to make your application.

Our role is to regulate taxi drivers in order to protect the public; we do not provide taxi services or work for drivers. Before you apply for a licence please note that:

  • You will be self-employed
  • MK Council cannot guarantee that you will have sufficient work.
  • You will be required to obtain your own vehicle insurance
  • MK Council does not grant new Hackney Carriage vehicle licences.
  • You should make enquiries with local operators to ascertain if they need new drivers and find out about potential earnings.