How To Apply

In the first instance, persons wishing to become either a Hackney Carriage or Private Hire driver should obtain an information pack and a copy of the current Hackney Carriage and Private Hire handbook. The information pack gives full details of the licensing procedure.

Initially you will be required to arrange to attend at Swindon College, North Star (01793 498302) to arrange for an assessment of your ability to speak, read and understand English.  Assessments are carried out, normally, on Thursday afternoons commencing at 3.00pm, by Swindon College on behalf of Swindon Borough Council and you will be asked to prove your identity, by means of photographic evidence, on the day of your assessment.  The assessment fee is payable either in advance or on the day, to Swindon College.

Once you have passed the assessment you will be required to take a knowledge test. This is a test of your topographical knowledge of Swindon and its streets and public buildings. The test also contains a section testing your knowledge of licensing conditions. You must pass this test before proceeding with your application.

It is important to note that licensed vehicles can only be driven by persons holding the correct licence AT ANY TIME. It is recommended, therefore, that you obtain your driver's licence before licensing a vehicle.

Knowledge Test

All new applicants for either Hackney Carriage or Private Hire driver's licences are required to pass a test of their topographical knowledge of Swindon, together with conditions attaching to the type of licence for which they are applying.

The Hackney Carriage Knowledge Test consists of 50 questions and applicants are allowed one hour for the test.

The Private Hire Knowledge Test consists of 40 questions and applicants are allowed 45 minutes for the test.

The reasons for the difference in the test is that private hire drivers, having all pre-booked work, have an opportunity to look up where they are going; Hackney Carriage drivers do not normally get that opportunity.

Tests are normally held on Tuesday mornings at 10.15am, or Thursday afternoons at 2.15pm. Pre-booking is essential.