Private Hire Vehicle Specification

The City Council will only license a vehicle with:

  • A width of not less than 1.63m (5ft 4ins) excluding door mirrors
  • A length of not less than 3.96m (13ft)
  • An engine of not less than 1.2 litre (1200cc)
  • At least 3 passenger doors
  • Seat belts fitted to all forward facing seats
  • Window glass tinted no darker than 32% +/- 2%

Note: lengths, widths and engine sizes are "as described by the manufacturer". Ensure you discuss any window tint with the Licensing Office prior to purchase.

The City Council will not issue a private hire vehicle licence:

  • to a “London Taxi” type
  • to any saloon, hatchback, estate or people carrier which is predominately white in colour. 
  • to a vehicle older than 8 years unless that vehicle is a purpose built stretch limousine or specialist vehicle.

The Council regulates advertising on Private Hire vehicles and application must be made through the Licensing Office at the Civic Centre before any advertising is carried out.

There are penalties for knowingly giving false information in respect of this application.


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Contact us

 01228 817000

Carlisle City Council
Civic Centre, Carlisle, Cumbria,
CA3 8QG