Hackney carriage or private hire quick guide
The penalty point system
The penalty point system may be used for Infringement and breach of licensing conditions. These are listed overleaf. Penalty points received will be shown on a Hackney Carriage/Private Hire driver's licence, up to a maximum of 12 points. Should the maximum be reached, the driver will be referred to Licensing Committee.
| Penalty Points System - Infringement | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Failing to have a Private Hire Driver/ Hackney Carriage Driver badge in his/her possession whilst driving a licensed vehicle | 3 Points |
| Not having an appropriate Fire Extinguisher and/or first aid kit in the vehicle | 3 Points |
| Failing to notify the Licensing Office, in writing within 7 days, of a change to name and/or address | 3 Points |
| Failing to carry Licensing Handbook whilst driving a licensed vehicle | 3 Points |
| Failing to display any Plates, Signs or Notices required by the Borough Council | 3 Points |
| Failing to deal with lost property in the correct manner | 3 Points |
| Failing to attend the Council Offices when directed by an authorised officer | 3 Points |
| The issue of an Unfit vehicle notice for any reason other than for an accident | 3 Points |
| Unreasonable prolongation of journeys or any misconduct regarding the charging of fares | 3 Points |
| Failing to attend at appointed time and place without sufficient cause | 3 Points |
| Failing to display fare card (Hackney carriage) | 3 Points |
| Parking/Stopping contrary to authorised road markings | 3 Points |
| Parking/Stopping with one or more wheels on the pavement - in avoidable circumstances where obstruction has been caused | 3 Points |
| Failing to notify the Licensing Office, in writing within 7 days, of any points or convictions being imposed | 4 Points |
| Failing to produce a valid insurance certificate/cover note within 7 days of request | 4 Points |
| Failing to notify the Licensing Office, in writing within 72 hours, of being involved in an accident | 4 Points |
| Leaving a vehicle unattended on the rank | 4 Points |
| Private Hire Operator failing to maintain their records in the correct format | 4 Points |
| A licensed vehicle not carrying a spare wheel that is capable of being used | 4 Points |
| Using a mobile phone, radio hand set, eating or drinking whilst the vehicle is in motion unless specifically exempted by law | 6 Points |
| Displaying any feature on a private hire vehicle which would suggest it is a taxi | 6 Points |
| Failing to carry an assistance dog without requisite exemption | 6 Points |
| Using a unlicensed vehicle | 6 Points |
| Private Hire drivers touting for business | 6 Points |
| Failing to notify the Licensing Office of any change in medical fitness to drive | 6 Points |
Last modified on 02 June 2026
