Changes in the rules around getting a taxi driver licence are not news, and it seems that over the last few years hardly a month has passed without some new initiative to tighten up the sector. From the passenger’s point of view this is all good news, as we are now safer than ever getting into the back seat of a taxi. However, some drivers have raised concerns that the increasing level of administration and DBS checks is causing them so much expense that it could put them out of business entirely.
Checks Required on Drivers and Cars
One Hampshire taxi driver voiced concerns over proposed changes to the taxi licensing policy of his local council in the New Forest. Changes currently under considering in the New Forest, and in other council areas around the country include various new measures such as changes to the application process, vehicle age requirements, DBS checks, and signage regulations. Taxi drivers have stated that the financial implications of the new checks could mean that as many of 75% of taxis in smaller towns are put out of business, just because they cannot make enough money to support themselves after all the new expenses have been taken into account.
Age Restrictions on Vehicles
One significant change proposed involves the age restrictions for vehicles used by drivers. New rules would mean that all petrol and diesel cars had to be less than five years old upon initial licensing, and hybrid vehicles less than seven years old. From the start of 2026, the rules would also mean that any vehicle over the age of 10 years would no longer be licensed as a taxi, irrespective of mileage, condition, and MOT status. Taxi drivers have pointed out this requirement to invest in new vehicles can be hugely expensive, with a new wheelchair-accessible classic London black cab costing upwards of £80,000.
DBS and Other Checks
In addition to new rules about age and condition of vehicles, councils around the UK are also revisiting the ways in which they check up on the drivers. Enhanced DBS checks have been required for taxi drivers for several years. This is the “gold standard” of criminal records checking and looks in depth at the driver’s entire criminal record. Checks are also repeated with greater frequency than they are in other occupations, and this can also place a financial burden on the driver, many of whom are self-employed.
Cars used as taxis also require MOT testing after the car is one year old, rather than three years which is the standard for other vehicles. Annual licences cost around £200, and there have been well-publicised rises in insurance and other running costs. At a time when many are feeling the pinch due to cost-of-living concerns, taxi drivers are seeing a slump in business and are concerned that yet another set of cost rises will put drivers out of business completely. New proposals are under consultation, with a decision expected shortly.
