You’ve decided to Become a Taxi Driver in UK, but how do you get started? Read our simple guide to learn everything you need to know about becoming a successful taxi driver. It’s essential to consider several factors before you begin working as a taxi driver. Firstly, you must decide whether to take a college course or apply directly for a taxi driver’s license. You’ll need to meet specific requirements if you apply directly. We offer minicab services in Minicab Twickenham To Heathrow Airport, Bookham To Carshalton Best Taxis, and Taxi Service For Luton area.
Direct application is the most common way to become a taxi driver, but completing a college course could give you an edge. You’ll likely need a couple of GCSEs to qualify for the Certificate in Road Passenger Vehicle Driving NVQ (Taxi and Private Hire) Level 2.
A taxi driver must have a few things before starting out:
You need a full UK, NI, or EU driving license for at least 12 months to work as a taxi driver in the UK. Additionally, you will need a DBS certificate, which is a criminal background check.
Also, you may be required to take a medical test, a driving test, and a knowledge or skills test. If your local authority requires proof of English and maths qualifications, you may need to provide it.
To protect yourself, your car, and your fellow travellers, you’ll need to obtain taxi insurance once you’ve got your taxi driver’s licence.
The following requirements must be met before you can apply for a taxi driver’s license:
Additionally, you may need the following:
We recommend you verify the specific requirements of your local licensing authority. In addition, London has slightly different eligibility requirements. In Northern Ireland, the conditions are also different. We offer a our minicabs to a variety of areas to choose from, including:
Kingston To Heathrow Airport Taxis
The Right Taxi In The Uk
Cab Chessington To West Ewell
Taxi Service In Reigate
Before obtaining their taxi license, many UK councils require aspiring taxi drivers to undergo a driving examination to ensure that their driving knowledge and ability are acceptable. In addition to knowing how to maintain a vehicle, you should also show consideration to passengers.
A standard driving theory test will include multiple-choice questions, as well as the identification of key road signs and hazards.
Taxi driver’s license applications typically cost around £430, depending on where you live. It includes an initial application fee of about £250, a skills assessment of about £40, a ‘Knowledge’ or ‘Cabology’ test fee of about £75, and an enhanced DBS certificate for £66.60.
An additional £100 or so will be charged if you have to provide a medical certificate as well. Depending on where you live, this will vary. Local councils have different application costs – check with yours.
To find out how to begin applying for your taxi driver’s license and what you need to provide, visit your local council website. Generally, it takes 12-16 weeks, but due to the high number of applicants in cities like London, it may take longer.
Your taxi licence will only be valid if you are covered by insurance that protects you from damage and injury. Depending on what type of vehicle you drive, there are different types of taxi insurance.
After you’ve obtained your taxi license, you’ll need to search for a job with a taxi company. The UK is filled with quality taxi companies, but ClockTower Cars may be the right choice for you. In order to work for a taxi company, you must meet the following requirements:
In order to earn more money as a taxi driver, you should become a dedicated driver. Anyhow, feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.