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Driver applications and renewals

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1. New driver application

How to Apply

Please contact us directly at licensing.team@exeter.gov.uk with your completed application form (available for download below) and required supporting documents as follows:

DVLA UK Driving Licence (Front and Back - Held for at least 12 months)
Passport-style photograph
Medical assessment (see notes below)
Right to Work documentation
Taxi driving assessment pass certificate (see Blue Lamp Trust, Devon Driver Training Centre or Diamond Advanced Driver Training)

Please note: applications cannot be processed without the required documents. All documents must be provided as jpeg, pdf or word documents.

After receiving your application, we will set up the following for you:

DBS Check
Disability & Safeguarding Training
Knowledge Test
Taxi Plus – Driver Licence Check

Medical test

You can have a medical assessment at your GP or through private provider D4Driver. If using D4Driver, you will need to provide the medical examiner with a copy of your medical summary, which is available free from your GP.

DBS check

DBS checks are processed by GBG Online Disclosures. You'll need to apply and pay online, then take your documents to a Post Office. You'll also need to provide documents in your current name, show your address, and include proof of your date of birth. Documents used for proof of address must not more than three months old.

DBS Update Service

After receiving your Enhanced DBS Certificate, you have 30 days to register for the DBS Update Service. Visit the DBS Update Service to register and send us your Reference Number, which is generated once.

Knowledge Test

Once we have received your application, we will contact you in due course to take payment for the £57 non-refundable deposit and to arrange conducting your Knowledge Test. A £57 payment will be required for every test taken until the pass marks are met in all categories in the same test. Tests may only be offered once a month.

Fees and charges from 1 April 2026

3 year £330.00
Please note that each Knowledge Test you need to take will cost £57

Your tax responsibilities

You must ensure you meet your tax responsibilities by reviewing our guidance.

Important notes

Allow at least 14 days for processing before contacting us.
Submit your application and documents in one email.
Specify if you're applying for a Combined or Private Hire Driver’s Licence.
Ensure documents are legible and in PDF or JPEG format (photographs should be upright).

Application forms and guidance

Convictions Policy

Convictions Policy