Private hire driver application BLOCKED over historical fraud and identity document convictions
- Perry Richardson
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Licensing panel rules applicant was not a fit and proper person to hold a private hire driver’s licence after considering serious dishonesty offences
A private hire driver’s licence application has been refused after a Farnham Council licensing panel concluded the applicant was not a “fit and proper person” to hold a licence due to convictions involving dishonesty and fraud-related offences.
The decision was made during a Licensing Panel hearing on 9 June 2026, where the applicant, referred to as Mr K, sought approval for a private hire taxi driver’s licence. The case was brought before councillors after details emerged of previous convictions linked to identity documents and fraudulent representation.
According to the panel minutes, clarification was provided regarding convictions recorded on 9 March 2021 for “possess/control identity documents with intent” and “make false representation to make gain for self or another or cause loss to other/expose other to risk”. Mr K was sentenced in December 2022.
In reaching its decision, the panel considered local taxi licensing policy and guidance on determining whether an applicant meets the required fit and proper person standard. Members were directed to guidance stating that where dishonesty forms an element of an offence, a licence should not normally be granted until at least seven years have passed since completion of the sentence imposed.
The panel acknowledged that Mr K had expressed remorse for his actions and had taken steps since the offences occurred. Members also noted that he had presented positively during the hearing. However, they concluded that the seriousness of the offences and the relatively recent nature of the sentence meant the required policy period had not yet elapsed.
Licensing members also highlighted the importance of public trust within the taxi and private hire sector. The panel stated that dishonesty offences are of particular concern in a profession where drivers regularly interact with members of the public and are entrusted with passenger safety and welfare.
While licensing policies can allow departures from standard guidelines in exceptional circumstances, the panel said it was not satisfied that sufficient exceptional reasons existed to justify granting a licence in this case. As a result, members determined that Mr K could not currently be regarded as a fit and proper person to hold a private hire driver’s licence.
The application was formally rejected, although the panel noted that Mr K has a statutory right of appeal to the Magistrates’ Court within 21 days of receiving formal notice of the decision.
