Private hire driver application REJECTED over crash record and history whilst licensed with another authority
- Perry Richardson
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
A private hire driver licence application has been refused after a licensing panel raised concerns over a recent driving disqualification, a pattern of vehicle incidents and inconsistencies in the applicant’s disclosures.
The decision was taken at a Fareham Borough Council Licensing Panel meeting on 14 April 2026, where members assessed the case of an applicant identified as Mr K.
The panel heard evidence relating to the applicant’s motoring history, including a driving disqualification in March 2022 after accumulating penalty points. Under the council’s adopted policy, applicants are generally not granted a licence until at least five years have passed since such a ban.
Members concluded that the applicant had not demonstrated sufficient exceptional circumstances to justify departing from this policy position, making the disqualification a key factor in the refusal.
Panel cites recent disqualification, multiple incidents and lack of transparency in rejecting application
Further concerns were raised over a series of vehicle damage incidents during the applicant’s time driving for another licensing authority. The panel noted the number of incidents and found the explanations provided lacked sufficient detail, raising questions about overall driving standards.
The hearing also examined discrepancies in the application process. The panel found that the applicant had not been fully transparent about his licensing history, including failing to accurately declare previous convictions and the timeline of his licence with another authority, which was ultimately revoked following his disqualification.
Although the panel accepted the applicant’s explanation regarding difficulties obtaining a certificate of good conduct from Sudan, this factor was not considered sufficient to offset the wider concerns identified.
In reaching its decision, the panel referred to the requirement for drivers to meet the “fit and proper person” standard, emphasising the responsibility placed on licensed drivers to ensure passenger safety and maintain high professional standards.
The application was refused, with the panel concluding that the combination of recent disqualification, repeated incidents and issues around honesty meant the applicant did not meet the threshold required to hold a private hire driver licence.
The applicant has the right to appeal the decision at the Magistrates’ Court within 21 days of formal notification.
