Taxis and private hire cars

Drivers

If you want to drive a taxi or private hire car you will need a taxi driver's licence. 

How to apply

You will need to complete the application form. When you lodge your application you will also need to submit your current DVLA drivers licence, a passport photo, a form of photographic ID, evidence of your Right to Work in the UK (if applicable) and the fee. You may also need to complete a medical form (please see below). The driver and operator application checklist can be found here.

**Please note: Medical examination fees (if applicable) are incurred separately to the licence fee**

Download the driver application form

Download the driver and operator application checklist

How the application is dealt with

We aim to deal with all applications within 6 weeks. A copy of your application will be sent to the Police. 

If you are aged 45 or over you are required to go for a medical assessment. The cost of this is in addition to the licence fee. Anyone aged 45 to 64 years is required to go for a medical assessment every 5 years and those aged 65 years and over (and those who have declared a medical condition) are required to undertake an annual medical assessment. 

Please complete the medical form included with the drivers application form if you are aged 45 years and over, or if you have a medical condition. 

If you are granted a licence, this covers you to drive East Lothian taxis and private hire cars. The licence lasts for one year and it is your responsibility to make sure you apply for a renewal before the expiry date. 

From 2 October 2023, applicants applying to renew their licence are required to provide an HMRC tax check code.

Complete a tax check for a taxi, private hire or scrap metal licence

Licence fees