From 1 January 2023, new licensing requirements apply to PHVs in London to improve air quality.

Key Changes

• New PHVs must be Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) and meet the Euro 6 emissions standard.
• Existing PHVs can be re-licensed if they are no older than 10 years.

Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) Vehicle Requirements

A PHV is considered ZEC if it meets the following criteria:

If a vehicle has an internal combustion engine (e.g., hybrids), it must meet Euro 6 emissions standards. ➕ Either of the following two :

A. Emits ≤ 50g/km CO₂ and has a zero-emission range of at least 10 miles (16 km).
B. Emits ≤ 75g/km CO₂ and has a zero-emission range of at least 20 miles (32 km).

In summary, only following qualify for new PHV licenses.

• Electric Car (EV),⚡🔋🚗
• Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) 🔌🔥🚗

Checking Vehicle Compliance

Before purchasing a PHV, check:
✔️ If it is fully electric or hydrogen fuel cell.
✔️ The V5C document for CO₂ emissions and Euro 6 compliance.
✔️ Manufacturer's Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for zero-emission range.

📌 Vehicle owners are responsible for ensuring compliance before presenting for licensing.

Documents Required at Your Inspection

The following documents can be copies print outs from the original documents.

• Certificate of insurance.
• MOT certificate, issued within the last 14 days.
• TfL Confirmation Email (for congestion charge exemption).
• Vehicle Excise Licence (road tax). A Proof from online will work.

You will need the following original documents when you take your vehicle in for inspection:

• Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5)
• Existing TfL vehicle licence and discs (if applicable)
• Emission equipment fitment sign-off declaration, where applicable.
• Any relevant documents related to the vehicle, including modification certificates and chassis/body replacement details if applicable.

🕓 Applications missing required documents will be refused after 21 days.

Fees for Vehicle Inspections

Vehicle licences are issued for a 12-month period.

🔋 Re-testing: If your vehicle fails the first inspection, you can re-test for free within 28 days at one of TfL’s centres.

Booking Your Inspection 🛣

If you are ready to book your taxi for an inspection, you can: 📞 Phone: 0343 222 5555 (call charges may apply).
🔹 If your taxi fails both the first inspection and re-inspection, you can request a partial refund of the licence fee by calling the number above.

Private Hire Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) Requirements 🚙

📍 ULEZ covers all London boroughs and operates 24/7, except Christmas Day.

🚖 PHVs must meet emissions standards or pay a £12.50 daily charge:

• Petrol PHVs: Must meet Euro 4 standards.
• Diesel PHVs: Must meet Euro 6 standards.
• Wheelchair-accessible PHVs: Exempt until 26 October 2025.

🔗 More info: ULEZ vehicle standards

Government Plug-in Car Grant 🔋

The UK government offers a grant for low-emission wheelchair-accessible vehicles and vans.

💰 Grant Amount: Up to £2,500.
🔗 More details: Gov.uk plug-in grant

Important 🚥

• Check compliance before purchasing a vehicle for PHV use.
• TfL may refuse inspections/licensing if the vehicle does not meet ZEC standards.
• For queries on ZEC compliance, email: [email protected].

For full details on PHV and taxi licensing, visit the TfL Taxi & Private Hire Licensing page.

This guide simplifies the licensing rules for London’s private hire drivers and operators, ensuring compliance with the latest emission regulations. 🚖💨