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Manchester Council Private Hire: Everything You Need to Know
Getting licensed under a Manchester Council Private Hire stands as a must before becoming a private hire driver in Manchester.
In this blog, we will break down the basics of Manchester council private hire rules, so that if you are planning to drive a private hire vehicle (PHV) in Manchester, your journey to becoming a professional driver is smooth and stress-free.
Whether you’re thinking about joining a trusted provider like OnTrack Private Hire or just exploring your options, here’s everything you need to know.
What is Manchester Council Private Hire?
A Private Hire License from Manchester City Council is mandatory if you want to operate as a private hire driver within Manchester.
Without this license, you can’t legally work as a private hire driver, and if you do, you risk heavy fines, legal trouble, and even getting banned from the trade.
The Good news is: that if you’re teaming up with OnTrack Private Hire, getting started is even simpler. We provide fully licensed PHV vehicles. All you need is a valid UK driving license to hit the road and start earning.
The Basic Requirements
For Manchester Council Private Hire, before heading out to the applications, here’s a quick checklist you’ll need to tick off:
- Minimum age: You must be at least 21 years old.
- A full UK or EU driving license, held for at least 12 months.
- You must have legal rights to work in the UK.
- Enhanced DBS check to ensure you’re a ‘fit and proper’ person.
- Medical examination to confirm you’re fit to drive professionally.
- Knowledge test: You must pass a local area knowledge test.
- English language skills: You should be able to read, write, and speak English effectively.
At OnTrack, we make it easier by giving you access to PHV licensed cars directly. What this means is that you don’t have to worry about licensing your own vehicle first. You focus on passing the tests; we handle the car part!
What Does the Manchester PHV Test Include?
When applying for a Manchester Council Private Hire license, you’ll need to clear a few assessments:
Area Knowledge Test:
Know the important routes, landmarks, and neighborhoods around Manchester.
Highway Code Test:
Brush up on traffic rules, speed limits, and road safety.
Driving Assessment:
Some councils require a driving skills test to prove you’re competent behind the wheel.
English Language Test:
Some areas assess your basic English communication skills to ensure safe interaction with passengers.
Bonus Tip: Spend time exploring Manchester’s roads, and consider practice tests to boost your confidence.
Application Costs to Expect
- License application fee
- DBS check fee
- Medical assessment cost
- Knowledge test fee
Depending on services chosen, these can add up to a few hundred pounds. However, think of it as an investment toward a solid, long-term career.
How Long Does It Take?
If you have all your documents ready and you clear your assessments quickly, you can get your private hire license within a few months.
But if you delay submitting documents, booking medicals, or passing tests, the Manchester Council Private Hire process can drag out. Fast-tracking everything by staying organised (and asking for help if needed) is key.
What About Vehicle Requirements?
If you were to bring your own car, Manchester Council Private Hire would require it to meet these standards:
- PHV compliant vehicle (no signage that looks like a taxi).
- Regular vehicle inspections.
- Insurance for private hire use.
Why Drive with OnTrack Private Hire?
Choosing a company like OnTrack means:
- Easy access to fully licensed PHV vehicles
- No upfront cost of buying or licensing your own car
- Support with insurance, maintenance, and paperwork
- Start earning faster without hidden hurdles
The Manchester Council Private Hire has devised a clear set of rules to ensure that becoming a private hire driver can be a rewarding opportunity, especially with the increasing demand for flexible options.
Your private hire driving career is built on strong foundations when you start it right. Contact OnTrack Private hire today and start earning with your private hire vehicle the easy way!
