Taxi licence in Wakefield: cost, how to apply and how long it takes
Written by Sam Allcock · Last updated 23 August 2026 · Facts checked against Wakefield Council's own published pages on the date above
Wakefield Council issues taxi and private hire driver licences for 3 years unless special circumstances require a shorter term, with applications made in person at the Licensing Office between 10am and 3pm rather than fully online (Wakefield Council, 23 August 2026).
The council's own guidance says fees depend on licence type and duration and are set out on the application form itself - we couldn't reproduce a clean current figure from the council's public pages, so the exact amount is best confirmed directly.
This page sets out what Wakefield does publish clearly - 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 Wakefield 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 Wakefield?
Wakefield requires a practical driving assessment with one of two named approved providers - Diamond Advanced Motoring or Blue Lamp Trust - rather than simply checking how long you've held a licence (Wakefield Council, 23 August 2026).
Applications are also handled in person at the Licensing Office during set hours (10am to 3pm), rather than through a full self-service online portal, though the council does maintain an online public register.
What does a Wakefield taxi or private hire driver licence cost?
Contact the Licensing Office on 01924 302932 or licensingoffice@wakefield.gov.uk, or download the current application form. Read Wakefield Council's drivers page →
✓ Checked against Wakefield Council, 23 August 2026 - fee figures not published clearly enough to reproduce here.
What do you need to apply in Wakefield?
| Requirement | Wakefield's standard |
|---|---|
| Local knowledge | Knowledge of the local area and an appreciation of your duties and obligations under the law and the council's conditions |
| Practical driving assessment | Required, via an approved provider - Diamond Advanced Motoring or Blue Lamp Trust |
| Enhanced DBS | Required for all applicants |
| Certificate of Good Conduct | Required if you've lived outside the UK for more than 3 months in the past 3 years |
| Medical | Must meet DVLA Group 2 medical standards, typically via examination |
| Suitability Training | Must be completed before your licence is issued |
How do you apply for a Wakefield taxi licence?
You apply in person at the Wakefield Council Licensing Office, between 10am and 3pm, rather than through a self-service online portal (Wakefield Council, 23 August 2026).
- Read the council's drivers guidance to confirm the requirements for your licence type.
- Complete your practical driving assessment with Diamond Advanced Motoring or Blue Lamp Trust.
- Apply for your enhanced DBS check and, if applicable, a Certificate of Good Conduct.
- Arrange your DVLA Group 2 medical and complete Suitability Training.
- Attend the Licensing Office in person, 10am-3pm, with your completed application and documents.
How long does a Wakefield taxi licence take?
We couldn't find a published working-day processing timescale on Wakefield Council's main taxi pages during our research (Wakefield Council, 23 August 2026) - contact the Licensing Office (01924 302932) for a realistic estimate once you've completed your driving assessment and DBS check.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Wakefield taxi licence cost?
We couldn't confirm a current figure - the council says fees depend on licence type and duration, set out on the application form, so check with the Licensing Office directly.
Can I apply for a Wakefield taxi licence online?
Not fully - applications are made in person at the Licensing Office between 10am and 3pm, though the council does run an online public register.
Who runs the Wakefield practical driving assessment?
Diamond Advanced Motoring or Blue Lamp Trust - both are approved providers named by the council.
Do I need a Certificate of Good Conduct for a Wakefield taxi licence?
Only if you've lived outside the UK for more than 3 months in the past 3 years.
Where do I actually apply for a Wakefield taxi licence?
In person at Wakefield Council's Licensing Office - there's no fee-saving shortcut, and you don't need a paid service to submit it.
apply for licence is an independent guide and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Wakefield Council, GOV.UK or any government body. This page is general information, not legal or professional advice - for anything specific to your application, contact Wakefield Council's licensing team directly.