Taxi driver license guide
Becoming a taxi driver isn’t just about knowing your way around town. It’s about making sure you’re properly licensed, too. Let's break it down into simple steps.
Getting started as a taxi driver: Your license guide
Whether you're drawn to the freedom of the road or the joy of meeting new people every day, becoming a taxi driver can be the gateway to a fulfilling career. But there's more to it than just firing up the ignition and setting off. To ensure a smooth ride ahead, you need to navigate the path to proper licensing.
In this guide, we're mapping out each step to obtaining your taxi driver’s license, making it simple. We’ll cover why this license matters, who to speak with, what preparations are needed, and how to manage the costs. By the end, you'll see that while the journey to becoming a licensed taxi driver might have its twists and turns, it's a road well worth travelling.
Let's get you buckled up and ready to drive your career forward.
Understanding the need for a taxi driver’s license
Driving a taxi is a responsible job. You're ensuring passengers get from A to B safely and comfortably. But before you start your engine, you need the right license. It’s not just a formality, it’s a badge of your professionalism and commitment to safety.
Preparing for Your Taxi or Private Hire Vehicle License
Ready to take the driver's seat in a taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV)? Here’s your road map to make sure you’re all set for licensing, which is a must-have in England and Wales to avoid any legal bumps.
Check Your Eligibility
Before anything else, confirm you’re eligible. You need to:
- Legally work in the UK.
- Have had a full driving licence for at least 12 months (British, Northern Ireland, EU, or others as considered by the licensing authority).
- Pass as a ‘fit and proper person’, which means a thorough background check, potentially including an enhanced DBS check.
- Be over 21 if you’re in London (some other areas may have different age requirements).
Medical Exams and Tests
Depending on where you’re based, get ready for:
- A medical examination to ensure you're in good health.
- A ‘knowledge’ test shows you know your area like the back of your hand.
- A driving assessment specifically tailored for a taxi or PHV driving.
Apply for the License
Submit your application to the right licensing authority:
- Your local council for work outside London.
- Transport for London (TfL) for work within London.
You may need to apply for separate licenses if you plan to drive both a taxi and a PHV.
Post-Application Steps
Don’t forget, if you’re using your vehicle, it needs a license too. If you're driving a PHV, check if your operator has the necessary operator license. All must be licensed by the same authority.
If you’re expanding your services across different areas, inform HMRC with a tax check on your earnings.
Keep Your License Valid
Your driver's licence typically lasts for three years. Know when to renew it to keep your wheels turning legally. At renewal, a tax check with HMRC is also required.
If You Hit a Roadblock
Should your application face any initial refusals, you have options:
- Provide additional evidence to support your application.
- Appeal the decision within the licensing authority.
- Seek legal advice if needed and appeal to the magistrates’ court.
Don't forget Taxi Insurance
RAC's partnership with Advisory Insurance Brokers Ltd ensures taxi businesses are covered with tailored Taxi Insurance. Our policies are specifically designed for the taxi industry. Accommodating a range of vehicles including minibuses and electric taxis, and extending to cover the unique requirements of chauffeur and other hire services.
RAC Taxi Breakdown Cover
RAC offers comprehensive Taxi Breakdown Cover starting at just £21.50 per month, per vehicle, crafted exclusively for taxis and private hire vehicles. Understanding that time off the road equals lost income, our specialist cover is designed to minimise downtime and get you back to business swiftly.
In conclusion
Getting your taxi driver’s license might seem daunting, but it's a straightforward process once you know how. So, gear up, get set, and go get that license. Your new career awaits!
This piece is crafted to be direct, and informative, and encourages the reader to engage with the process of obtaining a taxi driver’s license, all in a tone that’s friendly and accessible.
RAC Taxi Breakdown Cover
Keep your taxi or private hire vehicle moving smoothly with RAC's tailored breakdown cover, designed to suit the high demands of your business.
Get in touch
Prefer to speak to one of our team? No problem, enquire below or give us a call on 0300 159 0361
Get a quote
Build your cover now to get a quote in minutes.
For our most up to date pricing, click get a quote below to build your cover.
A PCO license, or Private Hire Driver Licence, allows you to operate as a minicab driver or chauffeur. It’s overseen by the Public Carriage Office, part of Transport for London (TfL). It's your ticket to driving a private hire vehicle legally in London.
Getting your PCO licence involves several costs, including application fees, DBS checks, and medical exams. The total can vary, but generally, you're looking at around £500. This includes TfL's licensing fee and other expenses related to the application process.
Securing a PCO licence requires meeting specific criteria, passing a medical exam, and clearing a background check. You'll also need to ace a geography test known as 'The Knowledge' if you're driving a black cab. While it demands effort and preparation, it’s definitely achievable with the right dedication.
To be eligible for a PCO badge, you must be over 21 years old, have the right to work in the UK, and have held a full driving licence (British, EU, or an accepted international licence) for at least 3 years. A clean driving record and passing a DBS check are also necessary.
The main difference is how you operate. A taxi licence (often referred to as a Hackney Carriage Licence) allows you to pick up passengers without a prior booking, use taxi ranks, and be hailed on the street. A private hire licence, or PCO licence, requires pre-booking, and you can't use taxi ranks or pick up passengers without an appointment.