The licensing team follows a standard process for all dual driver applications. These steps explain what happens and what you need to do.
To avoid delays, send your application and all documents in a clear, readable format. Missing or unreadable documents will delay your application.
Step 1: Application form
Send a fully completed application form.
You must include:
- Tax check declaration
- Tax check code (renewals only)
- Proof of right to work code
- DVLA check code
- Date of safeguarding training/video
- DBS fee (if relevant)
- Licence fee
When we receive your form, we assign it to an officer and create a record.
Step 2: Supporting documents
The Officer will check and verify the supporting documents:
- documents in support of DBS (ideally passport, driving licence, plus one other which could be birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.)
- enhanced DBS (if providing a DBS undertaken by an alternative provider)
- evidence of English language ability
- photograph
- proof of right to work (current or expired passport, or birth certificate, together with a document including national insurance number)
- certificate of good conduct (if applicable)
- medical Examination form
- DVLA Licence copy of front and back
If anything is missing, we will email you.
Your application will not progress until all items are received. Missing appointments or not responding will also delay your application.
Step 3: DBS check
You must complete an Enhanced DBS check including both barred lists:
- Digital ID check
You can use this if you have a photocard licence, valid passport and smartphone.
If the digital check fails, you must contact Licensing to arrange an appointment.
- Manual ID check
If you cannot complete a digital check, we will book a face to face appointment.
If all documents are received, your DBS is clear, your medical is satisfactory, and fees are paid, your application will move to Step 9 – Authorisation.
Step 4: Safeguarding
If your DBS has a positive result (items disclosed), we will need to view your certificate. You must provide a written explanation. We will send it to the Cornwall Council Safeguarding Team. An officer will tell you what you need to do next.
Step 5: NR3
We will check your details on the National Refusals and Revocations Register (NR3).
If you are or were licensed elsewhere, we will contact that authority. Any concerns raised about your suitability will be reviewed.
Step 6: Medical
If your GP has missed information or we need more detail, we will contact them.
We will update you or may ask you to help obtain what is needed.
Step 7: Awaiting DBS result or certificate
DBS times vary.
Please note:
- positive DBS results take longer
- we cannot speed up DBS processing
- positive DBS results may require Committee review (Step 8)
Step 8: MLC Hearing
If there are concerns about your suitability, we will refer your application to the Miscellaneous Licensing Committee (MLC). You will be invited to attend and speak.
The Committee may consider:
- DVLA endorsements
- police disclosures
- breaches of licence conditions
- items on your DBS
- safeguarding issues
- medical concerns
Hearings are held monthly. You will receive a decision within 5 working days.
Policy guidance (Appendix DR1)
Step 9: Authorisation
Once everything is complete, your application will be reviewed for authorisation.
This can take up to 10 working days.
We may contact you if we find anything unusual.
Step 10: Licence issued
We will tell you when your licence is granted.
You can:
- collect your badge and licence
or - have them posted
You cannot drive until you physically have your badge. Post may take up to 2 weeks.
You must subscribe to the DBS Update Service within 28 days of your DBS issue date (or while still in process).
We check your DBS every 6 months and at renewal. Failure to comply may result in your licence being suspended or revoked.
Data Protection / UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
Please refer to our Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles privacy notice under UK GDPR.