Taxi Licence in
Sunderland
Everything you need to know about getting a taxi or private hire driver licence from Sunderland City Council — costs, requirements, DBS, medical, and how to apply.
Types of taxi licence in Sunderland
Sunderland City Council issues three main types of taxi and private hire licence. Make sure you apply for the right one.
Private Hire Driver Licence
Required to drive a private hire vehicle (minicab). Must be booked in advance through a licensed operator. Cannot be hailed on the street.
Hackney Carriage Licence
Required to drive a traditional taxi (black cab or licensed hackney). Can be hailed on the street or from a taxi rank.
Private Hire Operator Licence
Required to run a private hire firm or dispatch bookings to private hire drivers. Separate from the driver licence.
Requirements for a taxi licence in Sunderland
The following requirements apply to most applicants. Sunderland City Council may have additional local requirements — always check their website for the latest information.
- Valid UK driving licence held for at least 12 months
- Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
- Medical examination (DVLA Group 2 standard or council equivalent)
- Knowledge test (local geography and legislation)
- Topographical test (route knowledge)
- Appropriate vehicle insurance (hire & reward)
- Roadworthy, licensed vehicle meeting council standards
- Right to work in the UK
Typical costs in Sunderland
Fees are set by Sunderland City Council and may change. These figures are typical across UK councils — verify current fees directly with the council.
How to apply for a taxi licence in Sunderland
The application process varies slightly between councils but follows a standard pattern.
Download the application
Visit the Sunderland City Council website and download the taxi or private hire driver licence application form.
Book your DBS check
Apply for an enhanced DBS check through the council or an approved umbrella body. Allow 2–4 weeks.
Complete your medical
Book a DVLA Group 2 medical examination with a GP. Bring the completed form to your application.
Submit and pay
Submit your completed application, documents, and fee to Sunderland City Council. Await your licence badge.
Already licensed in Sunderland?
If you already hold a valid taxi or private hire driver licence from Sunderland City Council, you can register with Joe Maxi Taxis today and start earning within 24 hours.
- Keep 85% of every fare — highest driver share in the UK
- No joining fee, no monthly subscription
- Bookings delivered straight to your phone
- Weekly pay every Friday
Taxi licence FAQs — Sunderland
How do I get a taxi licence in Sunderland?
To get a taxi or private hire driver licence in Sunderland, you apply to Sunderland City Council. You will need a valid UK driving licence, an enhanced DBS check, a medical examination, and to pass a knowledge or topographical test. The full process typically takes 4–12 weeks depending on the council's processing times.
How much does a taxi licence cost in Sunderland?
The total cost of getting a taxi licence in Sunderland through Sunderland City Council is typically £224–£510 including the application fee, DBS check, medical, knowledge test, and vehicle inspection. Exact fees are set by Sunderland City Council and may change — check their website for current rates.
Do I need a separate licence for each council area?
Yes. A taxi or private hire licence is issued by a specific council and is generally only valid within that council's area. If you want to work across multiple areas, you may need licences from each relevant council. Some councils have reciprocal arrangements — check with Sunderland City Council for details.
How long does a taxi licence last in Sunderland?
Most councils issue taxi and private hire driver licences for 1–3 years. Sunderland City Council will specify the renewal period when you apply. You will need to renew your DBS check and medical at each renewal.
Can I drive for Joe Maxi Taxis with a Sunderland licence?
Yes. Once you hold a valid private hire or hackney carriage driver licence issued by Sunderland City Council, you can register as a driver with Joe Maxi Taxis. We verify your licence documents during onboarding and you can start accepting bookings within 24 hours of approval.
What medical standard is required for a taxi licence in Sunderland?
Most councils require drivers to meet the DVLA Group 2 medical standard, which is the same standard required for HGV and bus drivers. This involves a medical examination by a GP or approved medical practitioner. The examination covers eyesight, cardiovascular health, and general fitness to drive.
Do I need a knowledge test for a taxi licence in Sunderland?
Most councils require a knowledge or topographical test covering local geography, legislation, and taxi regulations. Sunderland City Council will confirm the specific test requirements when you apply. Some councils also require a safeguarding awareness course.
Taxi licence guides for nearby councils
Got your Sunderland taxi licence?
Register with Joe Maxi Taxis today and start earning within 24 hours of approval.