Sandwell taxi and private-hire licensing

RESEARCHED AUTHORITY

Sandwell

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council · Sources checked 12 September 2026

Driver licensing

Official route/source found

Driver applications use the council's online licensing portal. Create an account, submit the application and pay online; office attendance is by appointment.

• Application process

Vehicle licensing

Official route/source found

Vehicle applications are made through the online portal, except licence transfers. The council provides separate vehicle and test process guidance.

• Application process

Operator licensing

Official route/source found

Private-hire operator applications use the same council portal; the application process links to the operator-specific instructions.

• Application process

Licensing fees

Official route/source found

Published fees: single PH/HC driver £104 annual or £303 three-year; dual £155/£454. Vehicle: brand new £297.50; new under five years £298.50; renewal under five £270.50; over five £289. Operator new one/three/five years £624/£1,650/£2,500; renewals £520/£1,450/£2,250. Tests paid separately; page also states £30 non-refundable administration fee.

• Current licensing fees

Taxi tariff

Official route/source found

Effective 19 May 2022. 06:00–22:00: £5 first mile or part, then 12p per 110 yards or part; waiting £16/hour. 22:00–06:00: £5.80 first mile, then 18p per 110 yards; waiting £24/hour. Sunday/bank-holiday daytime extra 50p. Christmas Eve through Boxing Day and 18:00 New Year's Eve–06:00 New Year's Day: double Tariff 1. More than four passengers aged over seven triggers Tariff 2. Further luggage after first outside passenger compartment 10p/item; soiling £50; assistance dogs free.

• Hackney carriage fare card

Mandatory qualifications

Official route/source found

Enhanced DBS under three months old; safeguarding/CSE/equality training; knowledge test under six months; Blue Lamp driving assessment under twelve months; medical under one month for new applicants; wheelchair certificate if driving an accessible vehicle; driving licence and right-to-work evidence.

• Driver application requirements