How to apply for a Reading taxi driver’s licence

For a new licence, pass the tests first, then apply to the council with your certificates. This page summarises Reading Borough Council’s steps. Taxi Prep does not process applications.

Step 1

Knowledge and location test

Reading Borough Council publishes two 2026 Word packs. They open with the same cover page, but the questions, locations and conditions are different. Download the pack for the licence you will apply for.

Private hire: Pre-test pack for private hire drivers
Hackney Carriage: Pre-test pack for Hackney Carriage drivers; Driver conditions and penalty points scheme

When you are ready, pay the council’s current test fee of £47 and book through Reading Borough Council’s knowledge and location test form.

Book the knowledge test

Study app

Reading Taxi Knowledge Prep

Taxi Prep’s mobile app is an independent study tool for the Reading knowledge test. It is not a Reading Borough Council service and does not replace the council’s application process.

Download on the App Store Google Play — coming soon

Step 2

Practical driving test

The assessment must be with one of Reading Borough Council’s approved companies.

Private hire: Saloon test pass certificate
Hackney Carriage: Saloon test pass certificate and a wheelchair assessment pass certificate

Approved providers

Step 3

Medical

Book a GP appointment and take both council documents with you. Reading Borough Council says all 8 pages must be provided.

Medical report form (PDF) Medical guidance (PDF)

Step 4

Safeguarding

Reading Borough Council requires its own safeguarding certificate. Applicants pay and book through Eventbrite for “Safeguarding training for taxi drivers”. Taxi Prep does not host this training.

Should have been completed within the last 3 months, in line with the licence.
The council also accepts certificates dated up to 12 months previously.

Step 5

Supporting documents

Upload these with the application to Reading Borough Council.

DBS check

Current council fee: £57.90. Reading Borough Council starts an Enhanced DBS check and emails you a link to complete.

Wait for the DBS certificate.
Within 30 days of the issue date, sign up to the DBS Update Service using the certificate reference number.
Generate a check code and give it to Reading Borough Council so it can check every six months, in line with statutory taxi and private hire vehicle standards .

If you already have a valid Enhanced DBS certificate dated within 6 months, the council says it can accept that and you do not need to pay this fee.

Also upload

UK passport photo. Without a UK passport: a right-to-work check and a 5-year address history. For years lived outside the UK, a certificate of good conduct from that country.
DBS Online Update Service check code
Tax code
DVLA photocard — both sides
Recent colour passport-style photo (plain light background; no hats unless a religious head garment)
DVLA check code from View your driving licence — case-sensitive, exact, valid for 21 days and one use

Extra

Private hire, executive and school transport

These applications also need confirmation from the operator you will work for, on letterhead or by email to licensing@reading.gov.uk. It must include the trading name and address, the operator’s licence holder, your full name, and confirmation you will work for them once licensed.

Help

Questions

Application questions: licensing@reading.gov.uk (Reading Borough Council).

Website or study app questions: Taxi Prep contact form.