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Out-of-area Wolverhampton private hire driver prosecuted for illegally plying for hire in Liverpool
Liverpool City Council has successfully prosecuted a Wolverhampton-licensed private hire vehicle driver for illegally plying for hire in Liverpool.
The case followed an incident in March 2026 when the driver was found seeking passengers without a prior booking, according to Liverpool City Council’s licensing team.
Private hire vehicles can only carry passengers who have booked their journey in advance through a licensed operator. Unlike hackney carriages, they cannot lawfully accept passengers from the street or a taxi rank.
The driver was also prosecuted for driving without insurance. Private hire insurance may not provide cover when a vehicle is being used outside the conditions governing pre-booked journeys.
The court imposed seven penalty points and ordered the driver to pay a combined £585 in fines and costs. Liverpool City Council did not disclose the driver’s identity, the precise location of the incident or the court at which the case was heard.
Drivers working outside their licensing area remain subject to national private hire laws. Local enforcement officers can investigate suspected plying for hire and insurance offences committed within their authority’s boundaries.
Liverpool City Council Licensing said: “Successful prosecution by Liverpool City Council following an incident in March involving a Wolverhampton licensed PHV driver.
“The driver was found plying for hire in Liverpool and driving without insurance, receiving 7 penalty points and £585 in fines and costs.”
