Let us know your VAT registration status and details here.

VAT Registration FAQ Page

These FAQs provide general information only to help private hire drivers understand VAT registration at a high level. They do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice, and should not be relied on as such

For VAT registration guidance, visit gov.uk or speak to an accountant or financial advisor.

What is my VAT number?

A UK VAT number is 9 numbers long, often with ‘GB’ at the start (such as 123456789 or GB123456789).

You can find your number on your VAT registration certificate or check it here.

What is VAT?

VAT (Value Added Tax) is a tax levied on most goods and services in the UK.

If you're VAT registered, VAT may be due on certain taxable supplies you make under UK VAT law. You are responsible for determining when VAT applies, and for accounting for any VAT due to HMRC, including any VAT you may be able to reclaim on eligible business expenses.

What does VAT registration involve?

VAT registration typically involves:

Registering for VAT with HMRC (usually online)
Charging VAT on taxable supplies (usually at the standard rate)
Submitting VAT returns (usually quarterly)
Paying any VAT due to HMRC by the relevant deadlines
Keeping appropriate VAT records

Some drivers manage this themselves, while others use an accountant or bookkeeping services.

To register, you’ll need details about your business, turnover, and bank account. Once registered, HMRC will issue a VAT number and confirm your VAT return periods.

Who needs to register for VAT?

You must register for VAT if either of the following applies:

Your total taxable turnover for the last 12 months exceeds £90,000 (the VAT threshold).
You expect your taxable turnover to exceed £90,000 in the next 30 days.

You can also choose to register voluntarily if your turnover is below the threshold.

Why do some private hire drivers register for VAT when below the threshold?

Some drivers choose to register voluntarily so they can reclaim VAT on certain eligible business expenses (such as car maintenance and fuel costs).

Can I register for the Flat Rate Scheme?

You may be able to join the Flat Rate Scheme if your VAT turnover is £150,000 or less.

Under the Flat Rate Scheme, you pay HMRC a fixed percentage of your VAT-inclusive turnover, instead of accounting for VAT on each transaction. The scheme may simplify VAT reporting, but it may not be suitable for everyone.

For transport and private hire work, the VAT flat rate is currently set at 10%.
You can’t reclaim VAT on your business expenses, except for certain capital assets over £2,000.

Important: whether the Flat Rate Scheme is appropriate depends on your circumstances. Check the latest HMRC guidance, or seek professional advice. View more information about the Flat Rate Scheme at gov.uk.

How does VAT apply to private hire services and trips with Bolt?

Private hire services may constitute taxable supplies for VAT purposes. Whether VAT is due, and on what amounts, depends on your VAT status and circumstances.

Bolt acts as an intermediary platform connecting drivers with passengers. Bolt does not determine your VAT obligations.

By providing your VAT registration number to Bolt, you confirm that you are VAT registered and agree to enter into a self-billing arrangement with Bolt. Under this arrangement, Bolt is authorised to issue self-billed receipts and, where applicable, VAT invoices on your behalf in accordance with UK VAT rules.

What records do I need to keep if I am VAT registered?

VAT‑registered drivers typically need to keep:

Records of trips and income
VAT invoices issued and received
Expense receipts where VAT is reclaimed
VAT return calculations

Records usually need to be kept for up to six years. For more information, visit gov.uk or speak to an accountant or financial advisor.

Where can I find further information or support?

You may find it helpful to

Visit the official HMRC website for up‑to‑date guidance
Speak to a qualified accountant or tax adviser
Use HMRC’s VAT helpline for general queries

VAT Registration FAQ

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