APPLICANTS must be at least 17 years old and have held a driving

licence for a minimum of 12 months.

After contacting Stoke-on-Trent City Council, applicants complete a local knowledge test and disability awareness assessment.

A Criminal Records Bureau check is also carried out.

Once these checks are done, the driver fills in an application for a taxi licence, submitting a medical report from a doctor and proof of the right to work in the UK.

The licence is then issued, but in future the applicant will also have to complete an NVQ as part of the application process.