Key facts
Which licence does a UK chauffeur business need?
Limousines must be run by a licensed operator unless they are hired out without a driver. Small ones seating up to 8 passengers need a private hire operator licence (with licensed drivers and vehicles from the same council, or TfL in London); large ones seating 9 or more need a PSV operator licence.[1][2]
Can I hire out the car and the driver separately?
No. GOV.UK says operators hiring out limousines and drivers separately to avoid licensing are breaking the law, and unlicensed or uninsured limousines can be destroyed or confiscated.[1]
What about weddings and funerals?
Limousines with up to 8 passenger seats do not need a licence for weddings and funerals; all other hire work does.[1]
Where do UK chauffeur clients come from?
Companies booking executives and visitors on account, hotels, event organisers and airport transfers. Account clients want monthly invoices, named bookers and reliable flight-tracked pick-ups.
See corporate accounts and airport transfers.
Frequently asked questions
Do UK chauffeurs need a private hire licence?
Yes, for hire work in cars or limousines seating up to 8 passengers: a private hire driver licence, with the vehicle licensed and the business holding an operator licence.
Is a wedding car business licensed?
Limousines with up to 8 passenger seats used for weddings and funerals do not need a licence, according to GOV.UK; other hire work does.
Sources
Fees and rules change. Each source is the official page we read, with the date we read it; check it before you apply or pay.
- [1] GOV.UK: Limousine licensing (read 3 Nov 2026)
- [2] GOV.UK: Operator licences for private hire vehicles (read 3 Nov 2026)