Private hire operator
A private hire operator's licence is required to enable a person to accept or invite bookings for private hire vehicles.
One person can be licensed and employ/sub-contract an unlimited number of licensed vehicles. However, a licensed private hire driver cannot accept any bookings unless they either hold or work for a licensed private hire operator. An operator may pass a booking to another licensed private hire vehicle operator provided that the operator is also licensed by us.
Members of the public have initial contact with the operator and make the contract with them even if the operator does not provide the vehicle and/or the driver.
Before an operator's licence is granted the applicant must satisfy us that the address from which they intend to operate is suitable and, where applicable, satisfy any conditions that maybe attached to the licence in order not to disturb the ambience of the area.
If you are a vehicle proprietor you may work for any existing operator. However, if you wish to apply for your own licence to operate from premises which will be used as a booking office, you need to obtain planning permission from us allowing use of the building.
Once the application form has been completed, bring with you the following documentation:
- one colour passport type photograph taken within the last month
- two forms of identification - at least one photographic ID (photo style DVLA driving licence or passport)
- basic DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) disclosure
- fee - in accordance with the councils scale of charges
Applications will not be accepted without production of the above.
To request an application pack please contact us on the details below.
Once your application has been accepted, the relevant checks will take place, if successful the licence will be issued.
A driver licence is required before any person can apply for an operators licence.
Cost
All fees for the 2026/27 financial year are listed in the Operator licence application pack (download below).
You will be required to pay online when submitting your application.
Data protection information - privacy notice
We take your privacy very seriously therefore we urge you to read our privacy statements carefully because it contains important information about us, including:
- the personal information we collect about you
- what we do with your information
- who your information may be shared with
To find out more, visit our Privacy notice webpage.
Apply or renew
To apply or renew a private hire operator's licence, complete an application form.
You will need a debit or credit card to use this service.
Change of particulars
If you have a change of particulars (for example change of address or name or notification of a motoring conviction) on your licence, complete the online form.
You will need a debit or credit card to use this service.
Report vehicle damage
If your licenced Private Hire or Hackney Carriage vehicle is damaged (such as an accident), please complete the online form.
Downloads
Contact
For more information, contact our Licensing Service.
Email: licensing@luton.gov.uk
Phone: 01582 546040
Luton Council
Town Hall
George Street
Luton
LU1 2BQ