Becoming a licensed taxi or private hire driver in Cheshire is a great career choice, but it does come with clear legal requirements. Local authorities are strict about safety, professionalism, and passenger protection. That means you must submit the correct documents before you’re allowed on the road.
In this guide, we will explain all the essential documents required for Cheshire taxi drivers, using simple language and SEO-friendly structure. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your licence, this checklist will help you avoid delays.
Why Documentation Matters for Cheshire Taxi Drivers
Taxi drivers carry passengers daily, including children, elderly people, and vulnerable individuals. For this reason, Cheshire licensing authorities require proof that drivers are:
- Legally eligible to work
- Medically fit to drive
- Safe and trustworthy
- Competent behind the wheel
Submitting complete and accurate documents helps your Cheshire Taxi licence application get approved faster.
1. Valid Driving Licence (DVLA)
You must hold a full UK driving licence to work as a taxi driver in Cheshire.
Key requirements include:
- Licence held for at least 12 months (some councils require 3 years)
- No serious motoring offences
- Points within acceptable limits
- Photocard licence (not provisional)
Your DVLA licence proves you are legally allowed to drive in the UK.
2. Enhanced DBS Certificate
An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is mandatory for all Cheshire taxi drivers.
Why it’s required:
- Confirms you don’t have serious criminal convictions
- Protects passenger safety
- Essential for public trust
The DBS certificate must usually be less than 6 months old at the time of application. Many councils also require you to join the DBS Update Service.
3. Right to Work in the UK
To legally work as a taxi driver, you must prove your right to work in the UK.
Accepted documents may include:
- British passport
- UK birth certificate with NI proof
- Share code for online right-to-work check
- Valid visa or residence permit
Without this, your Cheshire Taxi application will be refused.
4. Medical Certificate (Group 2 Standard)
Taxi drivers must meet DVLA Group 2 medical standards, similar to lorry or bus drivers.
Medical form requirements:
- Completed by your GP or registered doctor
- Covers eyesight, heart health, diabetes, and mental health
- Confirms you are fit to drive professionally
This document ensures passenger and driver safety.
5. Proof of Address
You’ll need to provide proof that you live in the UK and can be contacted.
Commonly accepted documents:
- Utility bill (gas, electric, water)
- Council tax bill
- Bank statement
- Tenancy agreement
These documents must usually be dated within the last 3 months.
6. Passport-Sized Photographs
Most Cheshire councils require 2 recent passport-style photographs.
Photo guidelines:
- Plain background
- Clear face visibility
- No hats or sunglasses
- Taken within the last 6 months
These photos are used on your taxi driver badge and licence.
7. Taxi Knowledge Test Certificate
Many areas in Cheshire require drivers to pass a local knowledge test.
The test may include:
- Local routes and landmarks
- Taxi laws and conditions
- Customer service scenarios
- Safeguarding awareness
Passing this test shows you’re prepared to work as a professional Cheshire Taxi driver.
8. Safeguarding Awareness Training
Safeguarding training is increasingly mandatory across Cheshire.
This training covers:
- Protecting children and vulnerable adults
- Identifying signs of abuse
- Reporting concerns correctly
A certificate of completion may be required with your application.
9. Character References (If Required)
Some councils ask for one or two character references.
Referees should:
- Know you personally (not family)
- Be professionals (teacher, employer, community leader)
- Confirm your honesty and reliability
This helps licensing officers assess your suitability.
10. Application Form and Fee
Finally, you must complete the official taxi driver licence application form.
Be prepared to:
- Fill in personal and driving history details
- Declare convictions (if any)
- Pay the required licence fee
Incomplete forms are one of the most common causes of delays.
Tips to Get Approved Faster
- Double-check document expiry dates
- Keep photocopies of everything
- Book medical and DBS early
- Follow council photo guidelines strictly
- Answer all questions honestly
At Cheshiree Taxis, we recommend preparing your documents in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Final Thoughts
Applying to become a taxi driver in Cheshire is straightforward if you know what’s required. With the right documents, proper preparation, and a professional approach, you’ll be well on your way to joining a trusted Cheshire Taxi service.
If you’re planning to drive with Cheshiree Taxis, meeting these requirements is your first step toward a reliable and rewarding career.
