Limousine licensing

Limousines must be run by a licensed operator unless they’re being hired out without a driver.

For small limousines - seating up to 8 passengers - you’ll need a private hire vehicle (PHV) operator licence.

For large limousines - seating 9 passengers or more - you’ll need to get a public service vehicle (PSV) operator licence.

Operators hiring out limousines and drivers separately to avoid licensing are breaking the law.

Vehicle standards

Stretched limousines must have Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) to be registered and licensed. For those built before 29 July 2011, a Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF) is accepted.

Weddings and funerals

Limousines with up to 8 passenger seats do not require a licence for weddings and funerals.

Fines and penalties

Your limousines can be destroyed or confiscated if you are not licensed or your vehicles are not properly insured. For other offences you can be prosecuted and fined.

Read guidance for operators of stretch limousines.

Related content Operator licences for private hire vehicles Vehicle licences for taxis or private hire vehicles Driver licences for taxis and private hire vehicles Explore the topic Transport and driving businesses Is this page useful? Maybe Yes this page is useful No this page is not useful Thank you for your feedback Report a problem with this page Help us improve GOV.UK Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

This field is for robots only. Please leave blank What were you doing?