Taxi licence in Derby: cost, how to apply and how long it takes
Written by Sam Allcock · Last updated 23 August 2026 · Facts checked against Derby City Council's own published pages on the date above
Derby City Council's published fee comparison shows a private hire driver licence costing £133 for a new annual licence or £361 for 3 years, on top of a knowledge test, mandatory safeguarding training and an enhanced DBS check (Derby City Council, 23 August 2026).
Derby has separately proposed revised fees for 2026/27 - including a lower knowledge test fee but a higher safeguarding and DBS charge - so confirm which fee table currently applies before you budget.
This page sets out Derby's own published fees and requirements - for the wider system, see our taxi and private hire hub, and for the general driver process, see how to become a taxi driver.
This is general information sourced from Derby City Council's own website, not professional or legal advice - always confirm current fees and requirements with the council directly before you apply.
What's different about taxi licensing in Derby?
Derby requires a GP medical examination confirming you meet the DVSA Group 2 vocational-driver standard - the same medical bar used for HGV and PSV drivers - rather than a lighter Group 1 test (Derby City Council, 23 August 2026).
New driver applications go by post or email rather than a fully online form, though renewals can be completed through an online portal.
What does a Derby private hire driver licence cost?
Derby's fee comparison document breaks the driver licence down by term, alongside the knowledge test, safeguarding training and DBS charges (Derby City Council, 23 August 2026).
Figures shown are those Derby had published as "current" as at 23 August 2026, alongside proposed 2026/27 rates. Read Derby City Council's taxi drivers page →
✓ Checked against Derby City Council, 23 August 2026
What do you need to apply in Derby?
| Requirement | Derby's standard |
|---|---|
| Knowledge test | Mandatory, booked through the council |
| Medical standard | DVSA Group 2 vocational standard, confirmed by your own GP |
| Safeguarding training | Prescribed mandatory course required |
| DBS check | Enhanced criminal record check plus DBS Online Update Service subscription |
How do you apply for a Derby taxi licence?
New applications go by post or email with your form, driving licence and DBS paperwork attached, while renewals can be completed through Derby's online payments portal (Derby City Council, 23 August 2026).
- Get a medical examination from your own GP confirming you meet the DVSA Group 2 standard.
- Book onto and pass the knowledge test.
- Complete the prescribed mandatory safeguarding training course.
- Apply for your enhanced DBS check and subscribe to the Online Update Service.
- Post or email your completed application with your driving licence and acceptable documents to Derby's licensing team.
How long does a Derby taxi licence take?
Derby City Council's published drivers page doesn't set out a fixed working-day processing timescale, but it's explicit that "your licence will not be issued on the day of submitting your renewal" and that it's your responsibility to apply in plenty of time (Derby City Council, 23 August 2026).
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Derby taxi licence cost?
Derby's published figures show £133 for a new 1-year private hire driver licence or £361 for 3 years, plus a knowledge test, safeguarding training and DBS check - though the council has proposed revised fees for 2026/27, so confirm the current table before applying.
Are Derby's taxi fees changing?
Yes - Derby has published proposed 2026/27 fees alongside its current fees for several charges, including a lower knowledge test fee but higher safeguarding training and DBS costs.
What medical standard does Derby require?
The DVSA Group 2 vocational-driver standard, confirmed by a medical examination from your own GP.
Can I apply for a Derby taxi licence online?
New applications go by post or email; renewals can be completed through the council's online payments portal.
Does a Derby taxi licence renew automatically?
No - the council is explicit that your licence won't be issued on the day you submit your renewal, so you need to apply in good time before your current licence expires.
apply for licence is an independent guide and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Derby City Council, GOV.UK or any government body. This page is general information, not legal or professional advice - for anything specific to your application, contact Derby City Council's licensing team directly.