Taxi and private hire car (PHC) substitute vehicle

Substitute vehicles

If your vehicle has been damaged, or you have sold and bought a new vehicle you will need to register your new vehicle with us as a substitute vehicle.

Apply for a substitute vehicle licence

The fee for applying for a substitute vehicle licence is: £77.

Using your substitute vehicle

Before your substitute vehicle licence can be granted, you will need to have your vehicle inspected and your meter tested. A member of the licensing team will contact you to arrange an appointment.

Find out more about vehicle inspections

You also need to return the plate from your previous vehicle to us before we can issue one for your new vehicle. This should be returned to your local licensing office.

Page last modified: 23 September 2026