Stretched limousines operating for hire and reward must be licensed, either as private hire vehicles carrying a maximum of eight passengers, or as public carriage vehicles (buses) if they carry more than eight passengers. However, limousines with up to eight passenger seats don't require a licence for weddings and funerals.

A special class of private hire vehicle licence has been created with a specific set of conditions that reflect the rather unique design and size of these vehicles.

Standard private hire driver and operator licences are also required to drive and operate stretched limousines.

In view of the size, length and left-hand drive requirements of these vehicles, all drivers are required to undertake and pass a driving test in a stretched limousine, or hold a PSV or HGV licence, before a licence to drive this type of vehicle can be granted.

As with standard private hire vehicles, stretched limousines must be pre-booked with a licensed private hire operator.

Before booking, you should always ensure that the vehicle, driver and operator hold all of the necessary Council licences. Being a member of an association such as the National Limousine Association is NOT a licence to operate.