With effect from 5th October 2026 all applicants must be able to evidence their ability to use English to Entry Level 3 or above, when submitting an application for a new private hire and/or hackney carriage drivers’ licence.
At Entry Level 3, you should typically be able to:
- Take part in everyday conversations with some confidence
- Understand and follow more detailed instructions
- Read short articles, letters, emails and other everyday texts
- Write short messages, forms, emails and simple reports
- Talk about past, present and future events using appropriate language
Demonstrating English to Entry Level 3
Applicants can demonstrate their ability by providing evidence of one of the following qualifications:
- GCSE English Language Grade 2 or above
- GCSE English Language Grade D or above
- O Level English Language Grade D or above
- ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) Entry Level 3 or above
- Any other recognised qualification Level 3 or above
All qualifications must be recognised in the UK.
Qualification levels are explained on the What qualification levels mean (external link) web page.
If you are unable to provide any of the above evidence then you will need to take an English Language Competency Assessment before submitting an application.
If you have any of the above qualifications, but are unable to provide evidence, you will need to take an assessment.
Applications submitted without this evidence will be REJECTED and any fees paid, refunded.
Booking an English Language Competency Assessment
An English Language Competency Assessment will cost £50.00 per assessment.
Payment for the assessment can be made online (external link).
Upon receipt of your payment a licensing officer will contact you within 2-5 working days to make you an appointment for the assessment. Assessments will be carried out once per month, subject to availability. Your appointment will be confirmed via email.
The assessment will be carried out by an officer from the Council’s Adult Learning and Skills team. It will be carried out in accordance with the National Funding Guidance for English Assessments and will evaluate the following skills:
- Speaking and listening
- Reading
- Writing
You will receive an email within 5-10 working days (subject to demand) confirming the outcome of your assessment. If you meet the entry level criteria for the assessment, you can upload a copy of this email with your application for a private hire and/or hackney carriage drivers’ licence. If you fail to meet the entry level criteria, you will be advised what options are open to you going forward, to enable you to evidence your ability to use English to Entry Level 3.