How to get your taxi licenceThe standard of the taxi or private hire vehicle driving assessment is set at a level suitable for a full driving licence holder. It is more demanding than the learner test. Before the assessment, you are advised to:
- take lessons with a professional driving instructor
- read the Highway Code
- familiarise yourself with the content of the assessment
The eyesight test
At the start of your practical assessment, you will be asked to read in good daylight a vehicle registration number fixed to a motor vehicle with letters and figures 79.4 millimetres high at a distance of 20.5 metres (20 metres for a new-style number plate). You can use glasses or contact lenses if you wear them.
If you fail the eyesight test, you will be unable to take the driving part of the assessment. However, you will still be able to continue with the wheelchair section if appropriate.
The practical assessment
The practical assessment will last for about 35 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Some elements are specific to taxi driving, such as:
- a taxi manoeuvre
- the requirement to stop in a safe position as if picking up or dropping off passengers
The driving assesment will include approximately ten minutes of independent driving where you will be asked to drive without examiner guidance.
To pass the assessment, no more than nine errors are permitted. Serious or dangerous errors will result in failure of the assessment.
You will be assessed on:
- awareness and anticipation
- effective planning of prevailing road and traffic conditions
- correct use of speed
- observation and mirror use
- control of the vehicle
- passenger safety and comfort
The assessment will include:
- A taxi or private hire manoeuvre where you will be asked to turn your vehicle to face the opposite direction.
- Approximately ten minutes of independant driving.
- Stops at the side of the road if a passenger is getting in or out of the vehicle.
- Related 'cabology' questions. Examples may include the dimensions of your vehicle, tyre pressures and what to do if a passenger leaves property in your vehicle.
- Questions from the Highway Code and identification of a number of traffic signs and road markings.
Your assessment may include:
- an emergency stop
- a wheelchair exercise (if you requested the enhanced assessment)
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