The exact requirements to become a taxi driver vary according to your state and city of residence, as well as the company you want to work for. Apply for a driver's licence. A small operator's licence (for running up to 2 vehicles for private hire bookings). Suspends your licence, takes it away, or they refuse to renew it. You’ll need to pass the necessary tests in order to receive your taxi driver licence. Certain other types of violations and offences can result in a prosecution and a fine. But, you would need to appeal to a magistrates court about a private hire vehicle decision. If you decide to become a taxi driver in London, you can drive the iconic black cabs that the capital is famous for. Display a plate on the back of the vehicle that shows their taxi licence number. This means that the costs and application process can vary between areas. There are two types of taxi licence: Hackney Carriage and Private Hire. Here, we highlight the key tests you need to pass. We use cookies. ALL RULES | Note: The Department for Transport announced new licensing guidelines in February 2019 to increase the safety of passengers in taxis and minicabs. PRIVACY | In most cases, you have to: Hold a full UK or EU driving licence, for a minimum of 12 months (or three years if you want to work in … Taxi and Private Hire Covid-19 Updates Apply online for your taxi or private hire licence. Note: The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) have developed further guidance for operators of stretch limousines (e.g. Limousines do not require a licence when used for weddings and funerals providing they have no more than eight (8) passenger seats. Here, we provide some examples of costs across the UK. You’ll need to give some personal information about yourself to create the account, and provide a photo for the licence. Depending on where you wish to operate, you may still need to complete a practical test: contact your local authority to find out if this is the case. While you’ll have greater freedom running your own taxi firm, you should bear in mind that you’ll have to build a customer base and find a niche to help you beat the competition. Each licence issued is subject to standard conditions. Be considered as a 'fit and proper person' (you may have your background and character checked). For more in-depth insight, check out our guide on how to start a taxi or private hire firm. Startups.co.uk are trading styles of Marketing VF Ltd, an Appointed Representative of Resolution Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 574048). As a rule, the council will want to check the vehicle to make sure it is in a roadworthy, clean, condition and: You will need adequate vehicle insurance that includes you as the named driver and covers you to operate for hire and reward. *For taxi drivers who have submitted a complete application, section 17(7) of the Transport Act 1985 may be applicable. For example, the, In Northern Ireland, you must also complete the theory test. Anyone who runs a private hire business would also need to have the correct driver's licence (either). The maximum length of time a private hire vehicle operator licence can last is five (5) years. To drive a taxi in London, you’ll need to pass The Knowledge. Doing so gives them the power to apprehend taxis who 'trespass' outside of their licensed area. failing to meet the criteria of a 'fit and proper person'). Learn how to apply for a vocational licence Some basic requirements you might expect can include: Meeting the minimum age requirement. Technicalities like tax and insurance will be taken care of for you, allowing you to focus on growing your confidence and developing your skills as a taxi driver. None of the vehicles can have more than eight (8) passenger seats. Large limousines (seating 9 passengers or more): You will need the public sector vehicle (PSV) operator licence. The type of driver licence you need will depend on whether you will be operating inside or outside London. A small operator's licence (for running up to 2 vehicles for private hire bookings). You would need to apply for a private hire vehicle licence with Transport for London to use it for private hire work. For example, Thurrock Council in England requires both hackney carriage and private hire drivers to pass a multiple choice theory test, examining the highway code, road signs, routes, and more. Not be the same in appearance to a licensed taxi (e.g. Ride hailing apps have become increasingly popular in the UK. As a rule, the local authority regulates taxis in most metropolitan areas across the United Kingdom. In addition, use our pages on card payment systems for taxi drivers and taxi insurance to help you with the practicalities of setting up your own business. If you do not hold a dual driver badge you can allow other people to drive the vehicle provided they are a badge holder. Visit the TfL page on the English language requirement for private hire driver licences for more detailed guidance. © 2021 | Private Hire Car Driver’s Licences are issued by your local authority. In Northern Ireland, you must also complete the theory test before taking the practical test. In fact, London taxis are purpose-built vehicles that: London minicabs must display special discs on the windscreen and on the rear window to show proof that they are licensed. Note: A Certificate of Fitness (COIF) is usually accepted for limos built before the 29th of July 2011. Applications to renew the licence must be made in sufficient time and drivers are advised to submit applications 2 months before their licence expires. Information for fleet owners. Small limousines (seating up to 8 passengers): You will need to get a private hire vehicle (PHV) operator licence (differs inside and outside London). Display valid licence discs (some exceptions may apply). For more in-depth insight, check out our guide on, Becoming a taxi driver offers you the freedom to work when and where, taxi driver practical test in Northern Ireland, English language requirement for private hire driver licences, how to apply for a private hire driver licence, Weekdays - £60, evenings and weekends - £90, £70 (for hackney carriage, private hire and executive hire), Hackney carriage: £175 (one year), £215 (three years), Business bank accounts are an essential tool for new businesses. You cannot operate your vehicle as a taxi or as a private hire vehicle (PHV) until you get it licensed. The vehicle used for the test must: 1. be a four wheeled motor vehicle of no more than 3.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass (MAM) capable of at least 100km/h 2. have a minimum length of 3.96 metres (13 feet) and a maximum length of 6.0 metres (19`-8”) 3. provide a clear view of the road directly behind the vehicle from the front passenger seat It must be fitted with: 1. front and rear seats 2. fully functiona… You can now apply online for all driver/vehicle licences in the licensing portal. Having held a full GB or Northern Ireland driving licence for at least twelve (12) months (or full EU driving licence). In London, TfL has created a temporary arrangement where licences are issued to those that pass the final exam, one the condition that they complete an assessment when a new solution is confirmed. If you wish to become a taxi or private hire driver, or to turn your own vehicle into a taxi, there are certain requirements you must meet before a licence can be issued. The suspension, revocation, or the refusal to renew a vehicle licence by the licensing authority. Whether you decide to work for a company or start your own business, now’s the time to accelerate your taxi driving ambitions! Only display advertising that complies with TfL guidelines. Depending on your location, you can achieve this by passing practical and theory tests, as well as meeting an English language requirement. vehicle registration and standards). There are also operating licences to take into consideration. The local council in your area will confirm what their specific requirements are, the fees, how to apply, and licence renewal procedures. You will be able to pay for your licence fee during the online application process. (EU driver's licence needs to be converted to UK driver's licence before onboarding) Be at least 21 years of age; Private Hire Insurance allowing you to transport passengers for hire and reward. The method you use to apply for a taxi vehicle licence will depend on whether you will be operating in London or outside. This page offers information and application forms on the various taxi / private hire licences that are available such as running an office which takes bookings for taxis / private hire cars, a driver licence for a taxi / private hire or if you want to use your own car as a taxi / private hire car. For more information, visit the TfL pages on how to apply for a taxi driver licence, and how to apply for a private hire driver licence. So, they may carry out an enhanced criminal records check as part of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). But, a minicab (often called a 'private hire vehicle') must be pre-booked. Also, you’ll need to ensure that the local council has granted Uber permission to operate in its district. Here is a rough guide to costs for getting a taxi driver and private hire licence in London. A taxi can collect passengers from the street without a prior booking. Drivers need to be able to communicate with passengers to discuss a route or fare as well as read, understand and respond to important regulatory, safety and travel information sent by TfL. . For private hire vehicle licences in London, this is referred to as a topographic skills assessment, in which you could be asked how to plot a route, for example. But the capital isn’t the only place that you can cash in on the need for taxis: with services operating across the UK, there are a variety of places where you can base up. You can find your local council online to get further information and advice. Generally, popular times include in the evenings or at weekends, making it ideal if you don’t want to work a standard 9-5 job – or even if you want to supplement a 9-5 job. Essentially, you must apply to your local council for a licence to drive a taxi or a private hire vehicle (PHV) outside of London. Some of the rules and regulations for taxi operator licensing differ in for Northern Ireland. To meet the eligibility criteria, the private hire vehicle must: Note: TfL will need to inspect your vehicle. The Knowledge involves learning the quickest routes within a six-mile radius of Charing Cross, and on average takes three to four years to learn. Anyone is eligible to apply for a hackney carriage or private hire licence, however, you need to obtain a dual driver badge if you wish to drive the vehicle yourself. So whether you see yourself in one of London’s famous black cabs or working for a ride-sharing app like Uber, read on for all the information you need! The theory test involves answering multiple choice questions and passing a hazard perception exam, in which you watch video clips to measure how well you respond to road scene hazards. Apply for a private hire operator's licence. How to get your taxi driver license. So how do you become a taxi driver? Other parts of the UK may require theory testing as well. If you like being behind the wheel, enjoy talking with people, and want a living that offers variety and flexibility, then taxi driving could be the ideal job for you! By browsing our site you agree to our use of cookies. The total number of licenced taxi and PHVs increased by 2.5% (7,200 vehicles) from 2018 to 2019 in England. While there are some general criteria to meet (such as the age and driving requirements), the amount you’ll pay and the length of time for obtaining it depend on where in the UK you’re based. This includes all taxi licensing surgery appointments, drop-in sessions, … The authority may also refuse to issue an operator licence if the applicant does not accept any attached conditions. For more detailed information, read our article on taxi driver regulations. Note: There is a fee for each type of licence and it would last for up to five (5) years. So, you can expect to pay in the region of £1,132.09 at a minimum to become a taxi driver in London. The correct method is to obtain multiple licences (i.e. Apply for a taxi driver licence. Contrast this with a private hire vehicle (PHV), which can only take passengers who have pre-booked. Anyone who works as a one-person operator would also need to get driver and vehicle licences as well. As well as the practical aspects, like passing tests and having the correct licence, there are other skills needed to be a taxi driver. Note: You would also need to hold a vehicle licence for private hire or for taxis and the correct driver's licence (details above). Hackney carriages have a meter. Read the latest coronavirus advice on taxi and private hire vehicles for drivers passengers. You must apply for a private hire operator licence from TfL to run a business as a private hire operator inside London. Even so, there are different types of taxi and PHV licensing rules and regulations (inside London and outside): Licensed hackney carriages (taxis) can only pick up fare paying passengers off the street in the area where they obtained a taxi license. This brings the total to 291,800 licenced vehicles – a record high, according to the Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Statistics, England: 2019 statistical release published by the Department for Transport. Being allowed to work 'legally' in the United Kingdom. taxi theory test) differ in Northern Ireland. To apply for a Taxi drivers licence, please complete the application form once you have read all the guidance Data Matching This authority is under a duty to protect the public funds it administers, and to this end may use the information you have provided on … One way to achieve this is by taking a test with a provider appointed by TfL. Here are the options available to you: When you’re just beginning your taxi driving career, it can be wise to join an existing firm. The local council will need to licence and inspect your taxi or private hire vehicle if you will be operating outside of London. Please note that PHVs which are fully electric or have a hydrogen fuel cell will meet the new licensing requirements. Of course, there is a legal way for taxi drivers to operate their driving businesses outside of their particular area. Find out about eligibility requirements for a taxi (T) or charter (bus) (F) driver's licence extension in Western Australia and how to apply. But, minicabs licensed outside of London cannot have the same design or appearance as the local taxis (see above). The local authority decides to control the number of taxis operating in the area. TfL manages licencing for taxis and PHVs in London. Licensing: Taxi driver licence application form (PDF 0.21MB) Licensing: D796 Driver 3 year mandate consent form (PDF 0.19MB) Licensing: Hackney carriage and private hire licensing policy (PDF 0.97MB) Do not have more than eight (8) passenger seats. But, it cannot be more than three (3) times per year. You can apply directly to become a taxi driver if you've got a taxi driver's licence. Alternatively, you can provide documentary evidence of your English language ability, such as with a GCSE, NVQ, A Level, or degree certificate in any subject taught in English. This is often a common way into this job. In fact, the regulation of taxicabs and private hire vehicles is especially meticulous in London. You’ll need to complete a test which shows your understanding of the local area and geography. It must meet the eligibility criteria set out by TfL for your particular type of vehicle. Alternatively, you could opt for a Suburban licence. Before you can legally operate and drive fare paying passengers for hire and reward, you must have the correct driver's licence. You must be at least 21 years of age and have a TfL driver's licence to become a taxi driver and operate in London. This means that the costs and application process can vary between areas. You must make sure your vehicle is suitable for the test and you must hold the right driving licence to drive it. Taxi or Taxi Driver Licences container Taxi or Taxi Driver Licences content They also enforce the rules on taxi colouring (e.g. a medical certificate showing that you meet the taxi driver’s health requirements (health requirements for group 2) that is no more than six months old, or a comprehensive medical certificate, in which the effects of ageing are considered, if you are aged 68 or over In most cases, you have to: There are differences between getting a taxi driver licence in London and outside of the capital, as well as differences between taxi and private hire vehicles. Information in this section explains the driver and vehicle licence rules and regulations for taxis and PHVs (also called hackney carriages, black cabs, or London taxis). A standard operator's licence (no limit on the number of vehicles you run). To drive a taxi, private hire car or bus, or to work as a school bus attendant, you must have a vocational licence. The vehicle fails to meet the eligibility criteria. Your local licensing authority will give you details of the exact requirements that apply in your area. For more information, visit the TfL pages on, – you’ll need to be able to talk with, and listen to, passengers in a personable way, – whether it’s dealing with challenging customers or navigating tricky traffic, a cool and collected demeanour is essential, – from knowing the quickest way to get somewhere to ensuring customers’ safety, you’ll need to be meticulous when running a taxi service, While you’ll have greater freedom running your own taxi firm, you should bear in mind that you’ll have to build a customer base and find a niche to help you beat the competition. Read our how to become an Uber driver guide for more detailed information. You can now book your vehicle inspection online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Applications for vehicle and driver licences are now carried out online. TfL provide a special form to report touting and illegal cabs inside the capital city. This gives you a yellow badge, meaning that you can operate in one of nine suburban sectors. In order to operate an Uber service, you need to get a PHV licence. Taxi and PHV license regulations for driver knowledge and vehicle integrity are strict in United Kingdom. Apply for a taxi vehicle licence. Any driver who submits a renewal application after the expiry of their licence will no longer be licensed and cannot work until a new licence is issued. Authorities can destroy or confiscate a limousine if it does not have the correct license or is not adequately insured. Previously, The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) used to provide tests for taxi driving for local councils: however, this stopped on 1 January 2017. Some of the neighbouring local authorities have set up agreements with each other. Get the latest Startup news and information, Want to drive a cab for a living, but not sure how to navigate the process? Successful applicants will receive a renewal form from Transport for London (TfL) before the expiry of the current taxi or PHV driver's licence. For example, Aylesbury Vale District Council requires taxi and private hire drivers to pass such a test. The exact details and processes are determined by your local council outside of London, or by TfL if you intend to work in the capital. Your local council will confirm how often they test PHVs. Important: Some of the processes for driving or operating taxis (e.g. Alternatively, if you’re a licenced taxi driver, Gett may be the organisation for you. Visit the TfL page on the. Better still, you won’t need any particular qualifications, besides the standard driving and licensing requirements. Sign up for a. The length of time it takes to become a licenced taxi driver varies depending on if you learn the All-London Knowledge or a Suburban sector. Note: The licence requirements vary in the different regions. A UKPollingReport election guide declared Luton as having the highest number of taxicabs in United Kingdom (per head of population). Visit our Complaints Policy page if you experience issues. The driver, the vehicle, and the operator are all licensed within the same borough. As a rule, Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) is a requirement for the registration and licensing of stretch limousines. Receiving payment for taking bookings or for supplying drivers for hire without holding a valid operator's licence can result in a prosecution. Funding is one of the biggest obstacles to new business. As the Department for Transport data shows, PHVs accounted for the majority (76%) of all licenced vehicles in England in 2019. Transport for London (TfL) issue licences for taxi and private hire drivers in the capital city. To become a private hire driver in London, you can expect to pay £627.50 or more, plus the GP fee for the medical. Important: Failing to fix any problems within two (2) months of a test failure can result in the loss of a PHV licence. These include: Once you’ve got your licence, it’s time to start working. New taxi licensing processes due to coronavirus In line with guidance from the government and Public Health England we've taken the difficult decision to close our public reception facilities. We’ll steer you through how to get started, and what the requirements and differences are when working for yourself or working for a taxi firm. If you have had or have your driver’s licence revoked, or a driver’s application refused, your details will be submitted to the NR3 register. But, taxis and private hire vehicles (PHV) can pick up anywhere in the United Kingdom, providing (both): That is one reason why your taxi could be from another city. These are: For more detailed information, visit the TfL page on learning the Knowledge of London. Startup loans can be a great option. One of the important ones is a PHV operator licence issued by the local authority. You can contact TfL licensing department to check the eligibility criteria for becoming a taxi or PHV driver in London. They also produce further details on the policy, regulations, and legislation for the London taxi and private hire industry. There are several reasons why a PHV licence application may be refused (e.g. With the number of taxi and private hire vehicles increasing in the UK, there’s clearly opportunity in this industry. Local council authorities licence minicabs and taxis. The length of time it takes to become a licenced taxi driver varies depending on if you learn the All-London Knowledge or a Suburban sector. Anyone who runs a private hire business would also need to have the correct driver's licence (either). Application documents/requirements; Book and attend Knowledge and Competency test - bring current valid driving licence: A completed HDC application form [PDF, 0.8MB] signed and dated by the applicant: A completed HDC medical form [PDF, 0.3MB] signed and dated by the examining doctor, that is less than six months old: Your Blue Lamp Trust certificate You must be at least 21 years of age at the time of applying. The refusal of an application for a vehicle licence. If you decide to turn driving taxis from a job into your own full-time business, you could eventually manage a whole fleet of cabs, as well as operate across multiple locations. Not only that, but you’ll have passed The Knowledge, in which you have to memorise all of the streets and landmarks within a six mile radius of Charing Cross – there are thousands of them, so it’s no mean feat! taking the practical test. We licence hackney carriage vehicles, private hire vehicles, their drivers and operators. How much do taxi driver tests cost outside of London? They are licensed to pick up fare paying passengers on the street or those who have pre-booked. The main reason is so that passengers can tell them apart. If a Hackney Vehicle (Taxi) licence is not renewed before expiry then the licence cannot usually be renewed without the express permission of a Chairperson’s Hearing process. Updated: Mar 20, 2020 Published: Mar 20, 2020, How to start a takeaway business from home, Scarlett writes for the automotive, energy, hosting and website sections of the site. Since 2016, applications for a private hire driver licence in London must meet an English language requirement. You’ll need to pass the necessary tests in order to receive your taxi driver licence. This brings the total to 291,800 licenced vehicles – a record high, according to the, – an optional test to monitor your knowledge of the first 80 routes (also known as ‘runs’) out of the full 320, – a multiple choice test, with a pass mark of 60%, – multiple one-to-one in-person oral examinations on routes, – the final stage is to attend a group talk, where you also receive your licence and badge, For more detailed information, visit the TfL page on learning the, Depending on where you wish to operate, you may still need to complete a practical test: contact your local authority to find out if this is the case. The theory test involves answering multiple choice questions and passing a hazard perception exam, in which you watch video clips to measure how well you respond to road scene hazards. You can register online for either type of licence. For more detailed information, read our article on, for a licence to drive a taxi or a private hire vehicle (PHV). Private hire vehicles (PHVs) must be pre-booked and it will be the private hire operator that sets the rates. Before you apply for a taxi driver’s licence you must have held a full Category B (car) driving licence continuously for at least three years. If you’re interested in joining the growing numbers of taxi drivers in the UK, you’re in the right place. Contain no more than eight (8) passenger seats. Theory testing varies depending on your location – your local council should be able to provide you with more information. There are different ways for you apply depending on whether you’ll operate: Important: Operators who try to avoid limo licensing regulations by hiring out the vehicle and drivers (e.g. Different vocational licences have different requirements The application process will take about 30 working days, if all the documents are in order. Submitting a driver's history report. Hire who you want, drive the routes you want to, and manage your own time: these are just some of the benefits of starting your own company. For example, the taxi driver practical test in Northern Ireland examines your actual driving ability, as well as your understanding of road safety and transporting passengers, amongst other criteria. You must be at least 21 years of age and have a TfL driver's licence to become a taxi driver and operate in London. Important: Failing to renew your licence before it expires means you will be unable to work as a taxi or a PHV driver. the London-style 'black cab'). Any such licence that is not then renewed is liable to be withdrawn from use until the current target of a maximum demand level of 220 hackney carriages has been reached unless good cause for the failure to renew is shown. The eligibility criteria to apply for a driver's licence for taxi and PHV includes: The council can check the criminal record of someone applying for a taxi licence. In addition, she promotes the newest small businesses by managing the Just Started profiles, and has also contributed to. For more information on this matter please refer to our policy on the National Register of Taxi Licence Revocations and Refusals (NR3). Note: The driver, the vehicle, and the operator must be licensed by the same licensing authority. Hold a full UK or EU driving licence, for a minimum of 12 months (or three years if you want to work in London), Be aged 18 or above (or aged 21 and above in certain areas, including London), There are differences between getting a taxi driver licence in London and outside of the capital, as well as differences between taxi and private hire vehicles. Whereas, the maximum validity of driver licenses is three (3) years and up to one (1) year for vehicle licences. You will need a licence to operate a hackney carriage (taxi) or a private hire vehicle (minicab). The applicant does not accept any conditions given to them. As a self-employed taxi driver, you can set your own working hours. Type of driving licence You need a licence to drive a taxi or private hire vehicle. In some cases, the council will attach certain conditions to private hire vehicle licences, such as: There are several reasons why a local council will refuse an application for a taxi and PHV vehicle licence, such as if: Having made a decision, the applicant would get an explanation from the council about the right to appeal, for situations that include: You can make an appeal to a crown court about a taxi licence decision. We'll guide you through the ins and outs of becoming a taxi driver, and get you from A to B. Have different requirements the application process can vary between areas this job – your local authority for... Vocational licences have different requirements the application process can vary between areas five ( 5 ) years carriage ( ). 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Or private hire drivers in the UK, there ’ s clearly opportunity in this.. Your location – your local council has granted Uber permission to operate an Uber service, you a. The criteria of a 'fit and proper person ' ) must be pre-booked and it would last up. Licensing guidelines in February 2019 to increase the safety of passengers in taxis and minicabs on whether will. Our Complaints policy page if you ’ ll need to get driver and vehicle licences well. Used for weddings and funerals providing they have no more than one vehicle you would need to a... Phv license regulations for driver Knowledge and vehicle integrity are strict in Kingdom. An enhanced criminal records check as part of the processes for driving for...