How To Become A Taxi or Private Hire Driver in the UK
Looking to get into the taxi trade? In this article, we take you through the process of becoming a taxi or private hire driver and the steps you need to take.
If you’ve visited our newsroom before, you’ll know that we like to offer lots of tips and advice to help all our current and future customers.
But that doesn’t exclude those who aren’t yet taxi drivers! Looking to obtain your taxi driver's licence? Read on to learn all about the process, and some of the qualifications and eligibility criteria.
How to become a taxi driver
Whether you want to become a hackney taxi driver or a private hire driver, there are some steps you’ll need to go through.
The first and most obvious is to obtain a full UK driving licence – as if you can’t legally drive then you won’t be able to drive passengers around! In London, it’s expected you’ll have three years of driving experience, while some cities require you to be at least 21 years old.
Other steps you’ll then need to take include:
Completing taxi driver training
If you have at least two GCSEs (grades A-D), you may be able to complete one of these National Vocational Qualifications:
1. Level 2 Certificate in Road Passenger Vehicle Driving: Taxi and Private Hire
2. Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to the Role of the Professional Taxi and Private Hire Drivers
Completing additional qualifications such as advanced driving courses may also be beneficial. These will help prove your experience as a taxi driver, while offering other perks such as lower insurance premiums.
Acquiring a taxi driver's licence
All taxi drivers will need to hold an official taxi licence to drive taxi and private hire vehicles. You can apply for your licence either via your local authority or the Transport for London (TfL) if you intend to work in the capital.
You may also be expected to complete:
- A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- A driving skills assessment
- A medical assessment
- A test of your local road knowledge (e.g. ‘The Knowledge’ test in London)
- An English Language assessment
- Obtaining proper insurance
Not all taxi drivers work for a taxi company – some are self-employed and operate their own firm. In all cases, you’ll need to have proper insurance before you start operating.
For instance, private hire drivers will need to take out public liability insurance and a hire and reward insurance policy. Make sure to check with your local council or firm any insurance requirements before you start work.
Eligibility criteria for becoming a taxi driver
Aside from completing all the necessary training, there are some eligibility criteria you’ll need to meet to become a taxi driver.
You must:
- Be able to work legally in the UK.
- Hold a full British or Northern Ireland driving licence (or a full EU driving licence) for at least a year.
- Be a ‘fit and proper person’ passing all background checks.
If your driving licence is from another country, it will be up to the licensing authority which licence you can get.
In Scotland, all licences must be obtained from the local authority. PHVs must also be licensed for the area in which they intend to operate.
You can find out more about eligibility and the application process on the UK Government’s website.
What skills do you need to be a taxi driver?
In terms of the skills needed, these are mainly interpersonal. This is because your job will involve working closely with people – whether passengers or colleagues from your firm.
Some handy skills to have include:
Being able to work under pressure
Being a taxi driver means getting passengers to their destinations on time. Even in adverse weather or traffic.
Driving carefully and responsibly
As a taxi driver, you’ll be responsible for transporting passengers safely at all times.
Communication
Being able to speak to colleagues and passengers clearly and confidently is a must for a taxi driver.
Navigation
Although navigation systems make finding your way easy, it helps to have good knowledge of the local area in which you work.
Basic mathematics
This will come in handy when working the meter and taking payments in cash.
Concentration
Driving requires focus in all situations, and will allow you to drive calmly and responsibly.
Organisation
Being on time and planning ahead is important in allowing you to offer a good service to your passengers.
What are the benefits of being a taxi driver?
Unsure about becoming a taxi driver? We’ve listed a few of the benefits to help you decide:
- Flexible working hours (with some companies even allowing you to choose your own)
- Increasing your driving skills and knowledge
- Learning more about how to maintain your vehicle
- Gaining more knowledge of the area where you work
- Getting consistent work with lots of jobs sent your way each day
If you love to drive and enjoy chatting with people, then a taxi driver could make a great career for you. It’s fun and easy to do once you have all the necessary requirements, and you might even get some regulars over time!
Start your journey at The Taxi Centre
Recently obtained your licence? Congratulations! Now you’ll need the perfect taxi to help you do the job.
At The Taxi Centre, we offer a wide range of new, high-quality taxis from leading manufacturers like Toyota, Skoda, Volkswagen, and many more.
Whether you’re after a standard taxi or something specific like an electric, hybrid, or wheelchair-accessible taxi. We can help! Our exclusive deals bring you top savings allowing you to save money, and we always have special offers available.
Start your search today by viewing our latest deals or get in touch with our taxi specialists if you have any questions.