The purpose of this licensing is to safeguard the fare paying, travelling public by ensuring that vehicles are safe, reliable and comfortable; operators are efficient and that drivers are considered suitable.
There are two types of vehicles licensed by the Council: -
- Hackney Carriages
- Private Hire Vehicles
The following information states how these two types of vehicles can be distinguished: -
Hackney Carriages
These are either purpose built 'London style' cabs (often called 'black cabs' even though there are sometimes of a different colour) or are saloon cars with a sign on the roof stating 'Taxi Wigan Borough'.
A hackney carriage also has a white plate on the rear of the vehicle stating that it is a hackney carriage.
A hackney carriage can operate from taxi ranks within the Borough or can be 'flagged down' in the street.
Private Hire Vehicles
These are usually a saloon type vehicle but may also, for example, be a minibus with up to 8 passenger seats.
A private hire vehicle has a yellow plate on the back stating that it is a private hire vehicle.
A private hire vehicle must be pre-booked through an Operator.
Both types of vehicles can only be driven by a driver licensed by us for that type of vehicle. When working a driver must wear his badge where it can easily be seen by members of the public.
It is very important for safety reasons that members of the public do not get into any vehicle that they think is a hackney carriage (taxi) or a private hire vehicle unless it has the appropriate sign / plate and also the driver is wearing the correct driver's badge
Licensing Section
The Licensing Section deals with all applications for hackney carriage and private hire licences including drivers, vehicles and operators. The office also deals with complaints and enforcement in relation to hackney carriage and private hire matters.
Appointments can be made to submit applications between 9.30am to 11.45am and 2.00pm and 4.00pm Monday to Friday inclusive. When you have completed the relevant application form, contact the Licensing Office on (01942) 404627 to make an appointment to submit the application. This application must be made in person. When you are given an appointment take the completed application form to the Wigan Life Centre, The Wiend, Wigan, WN1 1NH.
Please be aware that when attending appointments at the Wigan Life Centre you can only make payments by cheque or credit / debit card. Full details of our current fees are available on our fees and charges page.
If you wish to discuss any other matters relating to licensing of hackney carriage or private hire vehicles please contact the Section using the contact details below.
