Local Area Hackney Update

The Local Area Hackney (LAH) is a private hire category of SPSV that was created following the Taxi Regulation Review in 2012.

The purpose of the LAH is to offer a SPSV service in a rural community where existing transport services do not serve the needs of the community. The LAH can meet the demand for these services but they cannot displace any existing SPSV services. The LAH licence is restricted to a specified geographical area surrounding a named village or townland. The area is indicated on the licence and it is that community which is the sole focus of the service.

The LAH enables those in the community to travel for important appointments, social events or anywhere they might find difficult to attend or even unable to attend at all, due to a lack of existing transport links.

To apply for a LAH licence, an applicant must provide evidence of the transport need within the community, from an established local organisation or group and the application must also be supported by analysis from the relevant local authority.

There are currently 21 Local Area Hackney licences serving communities in Ireland, as shown on the map below.

NTA will welcome new applications for any areas where there is a need for additional transport services.

As a small public service vehicle, the licensing process is in two stages, one to drive the vehicle and one to ensure that the vehicle meets the required standard. All drivers must be vetted by An Garda Síochána and the vehicle must undergo an inspection by NTA before a licence is granted. The cost of the LAH vehicle licence is €50 and the licence to drive is €20. For more details on how to apply please see our guide here.