Taxis (Hackney Carriages) and Private Hire Vehicles together with their drivers and Private Hire Operators are licensed by local authorities.

Licensing provides a visible assurance to the public that the vehicle has been checked every six months for safety and that the driver has been checked medically and is a fit to hold a licence. Drivers have a criminal records check undertaken on them before their licence is issued.

The main difference between Taxis (Hackney Carriages) and Private Hire Vehicles is that taxis can ply for hire, i.e. the vehicle and driver are immediately available for hire, whilst private vehicles must be booked in advance, through a licensed operator.

Each licensed vehicle is issued with a licence plate, updated annually and which must be fixed to the rear of the vehicle.

Licensed drivers are issued with a photographic I.D. badge, which must be worn at all times whilst acting as the driver of a licensed vehicle.

If you would like to become a new licensed driver there are several checks including an enhanced Criminal Record Bureau check, and a medical is required.

• View our Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Fees
• View the licences issued by Ashford Borough Council

Further Information

For further information please contact:

Licensing, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford, Kent TN23 1PL

Telephone: 01233 330722 or 01233 330503

Fax: 01233 330469

Email Licensing 

You can view local Taxi firms by visiting the Yell website.