Becoming a Taxi Driver
Definition of Taxi Drivers
In this section, the term “taxi drivers” refers to both hackney carriage and private hire drivers, and “passengers” refers to fare-paying passengers.
If you want to become a taxi driver, first contact your local licensing authority. They will advise you about licensing requirements for both you and your vehicle. Regulations vary by area and differ for hackney carriages and private hire vehicles.
Hackney Carriage vs Private Hire
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Hackney carriages can be hailed on the street or can wait for passengers at taxi ranks.
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Private hire vehicles must be pre-booked—they cannot pick up passengers from the street.
Both vehicle and driver licences must be renewed regularly, and renewal procedures vary by authority.
Regulation
Although local authority rules differ, you will normally need:
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A medical check, including an eyesight test
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A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
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A valid driving licence (penalty points do not automatically disqualify you—check with your authority)
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Payment of a licensing fee
Many authorities also require a driving assessment. Contact your local authority for exact requirements.
Medical Requirements
If you have concerns about your health or fitness to drive, speak to your doctor first. You may be refused a licence if you have certain medical conditions—such as epilepsy, diabetes, or poor eyesight. Full medical guidelines appear on form D4(available at GOV.UK).
You must submit a medical report to your licensing authority within the timeframe they specify. The examination is not covered by the NHS, and you must pay the fee yourself.
For more information, visit GOV.UK.