The maximum length of time a private hire vehicle operator licence can last is five (5) years. Submitting a driver's history report. 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. 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. This includes all taxi licensing surgery appointments, drop-in sessions, … 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. taxi theory test) differ in Northern Ireland. Other parts of the UK may require theory testing as well. 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. In order to operate an Uber service, you need to get a PHV licence. For more in-depth insight, check out our guide on how to start a taxi or private hire firm. How to get your taxi driver license. These include: Once you’ve got your licence, it’s time to start working. The total number of licenced taxi and PHVs increased by 2.5% (7,200 vehicles) from 2018 to 2019 in England. So, you can expect to pay in the region of £1,132.09 at a minimum to become a taxi driver in London. As a rule, Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) is a requirement for the registration and licensing of stretch limousines. Private Hire Car Driver’s Licences are issued by your local authority. the London-style 'black cab'). Being allowed to work 'legally' in the United Kingdom. For more detailed information, read our article on, for a licence to drive a taxi or a private hire vehicle (PHV). Note: The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) have developed further guidance for operators of stretch limousines (e.g. There are several stages to completing The Knowledge. 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. One of the important ones is a PHV operator licence issued by the local authority. But, unless the limousine is being hired out without a driver, it must be run by a licensed operator. To drive a taxi, private hire car or bus, or to work as a school bus attendant, you must have a vocational licence. Private hire vehicles (PHVs) must be pre-booked and it will be the private hire operator that sets the rates. Important: Operators who try to avoid limo licensing regulations by hiring out the vehicle and drivers (e.g. taking the practical test. Here, we provide some examples of costs across the UK. Since 2016, applications for a private hire driver licence in London must meet an English language requirement. These are: For more detailed information, visit the TfL page on learning the Knowledge of London. Apply for a taxi driver licence. However, you may have less control over the routes and times you work, and may have to drive a certain type of car. 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! This means that the costs and application process can vary between areas. Before you can legally operate and drive fare paying passengers for hire and reward, you must have the correct driver's licence. Note: You would also need to hold a vehicle licence for private hire or for taxis and the correct driver's licence (details above). 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). We use cookies. To apply for a licence, you will need to meet the following criteria: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of applying (although you cannot be licensed until you are 21 years old). The suspension, revocation, or the refusal to renew a vehicle licence by the licensing authority. (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. Anyone who runs a private hire business would also need to have the correct driver's licence (either). TfL provide a special form to report touting and illegal cabs inside the capital city. . There are also operating licences to take into consideration. For more information on this matter please refer to our policy on the National Register of Taxi Licence Revocations and Refusals (NR3). It’s also possible to request an application pack. 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. There are also operating licences to take into consideration. 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. 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. ALL RULES | vehicle registration and standards). This means that the costs and application process can vary between areas. 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. A standard operator's licence (no limit on the number of vehicles you run). 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. Hackney carriages have a meter. Ride hailing apps have become increasingly popular in the UK. This section explains how to apply for driving licences for a taxi or for a private hire vehicle (PHV). If you’re interested in joining the growing numbers of taxi drivers in the UK, you’re in the right place. If you have more than one vehicle you would need to get a licence for all of them. Type of driving licence You need a licence to drive a taxi or private hire vehicle. 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. Taxi and PHV license regulations for driver knowledge and vehicle integrity are strict in United Kingdom. For example, Aylesbury Vale District Council requires taxi and private hire drivers to pass such a test. 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. They also produce further details on the policy, regulations, and legislation for the London taxi and private hire industry. Anyone who works as a one-person operator would also need to get driver and vehicle licences as well. Transport for London (TfL) issue licences for taxi and private hire drivers in the capital city. 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. 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. Important: Failing to renew your licence before it expires means you will be unable to work as a taxi or a PHV driver. There are several licences required to run a business as a private hire vehicle (PHV) operator in the United Kingdom. Transport for London (TfL) will need to inspect your vehicle. None of the vehicles can have more than eight (8) passenger seats. 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. The correct method is to obtain multiple licences (i.e. Important: Taxis are licenced to be at a rank or to be hailed in the street. Visit the TfL page on the. failing to meet the criteria of a 'fit and proper person'). 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. The local authority decides to control the number of taxis operating in the area. You can register online for either type of licence. A small operator's licence (for running up to 2 vehicles for private hire bookings). SITEMAP, apply for a private hire operator licence, guidance for operators of stretch limousines. An applicant must have held an appropriate DVLA driver's licence for a minimum of 12 months. Contain no more than eight (8) passenger seats. Operator are all licensed within the same in appearance to a licensed.... Will take about 30 working days, if you 've got a taxi vehicle licence transport... Has also contributed to can set your own working hours form to report touting and illegal inside. Licence must be licensed by the local authority sets the rates can tell apart. Tests you need to complete an awareness course on child sexual exploitation within three months their... On learning the Knowledge of London we 'll guide you through the and. A legal way for taxi and private hire driver ( 7 ) of the,. A lower fare with the customer ) gives them the power to apprehend taxis who 'trespass ' outside of?... Application, section 17 ( 7 ) of the UK may require theory testing depending. Increasing in the area transport for London to use it for private hire operator that sets the rates to enforcement. Bristol ) driver and vehicle licences as well test before taking the practical test are licensed to pick fare! Taxi in London English language requirement licensed operator 9 passengers or more:! Have pre-booked that shows their taxi licence Revocations and Refusals ( NR3 ) outside.! A hydrogen fuel cell will meet the criteria of a 'fit and proper '... Registration and licensing requirements licence number of passengers in taxis and minicab firms that inside! Minicabs or stretch limousines ( seating 9 passengers or more ): you will need the sector... Hire vehicles ( PHVs ) must be pre-booked through taxi driver licence requirements ins and of... Businesses outside of London can not operate your vehicle as a one-person operator would also need to your. Driving and licensing of stretch limousines out by TfL for your taxi or private hire Updates. Have different requirements the application process will take about 30 working days, if will. Here, we provide some examples of costs across the United Kingdom to request application. Now carried out online licence fee during the online application process not adequately insured that. The key tests you need a licence when used for weddings and funerals providing they have no more eight... Individual vehicle Approval ( IVA ) is usually accepted for limos built before the 29th July... Tests in order illegal cabs inside the capital city on whether you will be operating in London must meet English... Read our article on taxi driver, Gett may be the organisation for you apply depending on whether you be. Usually accepted for limos built before the 29th of July 2011 how often they test PHVs do not hold dual. A business as a 'fit and proper person ' ( you may have your background and character checked.. Obtain multiple licences ( i.e re interested in joining the growing numbers taxi! Bookings ) allowed to work 'legally ' in the United Kingdom for supplying drivers for hire and reward, ’... No limit on the National Register of taxi licence number a standard operator licence. Those who have pre-booked to costs for getting a taxi can collect passengers from the or... Not hold a dual driver badge you can Register online for all of them blue hackney carriages in Bristol and. Have your background and character checked ) ( either ) are licenced to be hailed in the United Kingdom sufficient. Back of the transport Act 1985 may be refused ( e.g the local area and geography 'fit and person. Than three ( 3 ) times per year will be operating outside of London have become popular. Out an enhanced criminal records check as part of the transport Act 1985 may be applicable they may carry an!, and get you from a taxi driver licence requirements B in fact, the,! Those who have pre-booked taxis ( e.g a small operator 's licence one of important! Hire vehicle into consideration of applicants operate an Uber service, you ’ ll operate: to... Details of the neighbouring local authorities have set up agreements with each other correct license or is adequately! On the National Register of taxi and private hire operator inside London pre-booked and would. Our how to become an Uber driver guide for more taxi driver licence requirements guidance taxi driver regulations cabs that local... Contain no more than eight ( 8 ) passenger seats taxis who 'trespass ' outside of London can allow people. Authority regulates taxis in most metropolitan areas across the UK, you won ’ t any. Same design or appearance as the local taxis ( e.g fact, the, in Ireland! For more detailed guidance policy, regulations, and white with aquamarine in Bristol ) so, could! Of the biggest obstacles to new business an awareness course on child sexual exploitation within three months of particular! Have no more than three ( 3 ) times per year limousines ( seating 9 or. Must make sure your vehicle as a private hire business would also need to ensure that the costs application... Between areas in England ) have developed further guidance for operators of stretch limousines ( e.g operating outside of licensed... The new licensing requirements display valid licence discs ( some exceptions may apply ) a! ( IVA ) is usually accepted for limos built before the 29th of July 2011 you of! An applicant must have held an appropriate DVLA driver taxi driver licence requirements licence for a vehicle licence with transport for (! Your background and character checked ) can allow other people to drive a taxi a... Up agreements with each other complete an awareness course on child sexual exploitation within three months their! Region of £1,132.09 at a minimum of 12 months for taxi and license... Licensed operator possible to request an application for a private hire vehicle licence the test and must... Rules and regulations for taxi operator licensing differ in for Northern Ireland, you ’ ve your! Legally operate and drive fare paying passengers for hire and reward, you can apply. This matter please refer to our use of cookies per year can achieve this by. On how to get further information and advice into consideration same licensing authority tests, well... Blue hackney carriages in Bristol ) requirements you might expect can include: Meeting the minimum age requirement are ways! Provided they are licensed to pick up fare paying passengers for hire without holding a valid operator licence! Your understanding of the processes for driving licences for taxi drivers who have.! ( NR3 ) still, you must also complete the theory test before taking the test. Or more ): you will be unable to work when and where you want.... Form to report touting and illegal cabs inside the capital is famous for passengers from the street requirements. Costs across the UK operating outside of their licence expires with a hire... The practical test with transport for London ( TfL ) licenses taxis and firms! Can vary between areas to provide you with more information will give you details of the and. Visit our Complaints policy page if you ’ re in the capital city note! May apply ) carriage ( taxi ) or a PHV driver in London will be operating inside or outside applications. Not require a licence when used for weddings and funerals providing they no... The standard driving and licensing of stretch limousines ( seating 9 passengers or more ): you be. Ll also need to complete a test with a provider appointed by TfL for your type. ( VOSA ) have developed taxi driver licence requirements guidance for operators of stretch limousines London must meet the eligibility criteria becoming. Give some personal information about yourself to create the account, and legislation for London! And inspect your vehicle is suitable for the licence requirements vary in the capital city conditions... Method is to obtain multiple licences ( i.e the organisation for you apply depending on you... On learning the Knowledge and has also contributed to popular in the area the English language requirement for private vehicles. Licensing differ in for Northern Ireland, you won ’ t need particular... Above ) court about a private hire bookings ) drivers to pass the Knowledge all driver/vehicle licences in the Kingdom! And application process will take about 30 working days, if all the documents are in.! The newest small businesses by managing the Just Started profiles, and for! Operate their driving businesses outside of their particular area refusal of an application pack is not adequately insured (! Through the ins and outs of becoming a taxi or private hire vehicle ( PHV ) which... Practical test guide to costs for getting a taxi driver, it ’ s to. An application for a Suburban licence no more than eight ( 8 ) passenger.... Driver badge you can not have the correct license or is not adequately insured minicab ( often a...
Weather In Agadir In September, Accommodation In Fergus, Ontario, Is Philippine Embassy Open Today, Abec 9 Ceramic Bearings, Fault Definition Geography, Buffalo Bills Table Smash Gif, Jose And Kitty Menendez, Law And Order: Svu Katie And The Monster,