Taxi Driving and the PCV Licence

Most of the time, we are referencing bus and coach driving when we talk about the PCV licence and its associated training. Yet we frequently get questions from students wanting to know if they need a PCV licence in order to drive a taxi. The simple answer is ‘no’. However, that does not mean a special licence is unnecessary.

In the UK, there is a unique licence for taxi drivers known as the personal hire vehicle (PHV) licence. What is different about this licence is the fact that is not necessarily required in every jurisdiction. In other words, the government gives local councils the authority to determine whether to require taxi drivers to possess PHV licences. In jurisdictions where the licences are required, drivers must take and pass a DVSA test before a licence is awarded. Other jurisdictions allow drivers to operate taxis with a standard Category B licence.

DVSA Test Requirements

In order to take the DVSA test to get a PHV licence, you must already have a valid Category B driving licence. You will need to have your licence with you when you arrive at the testing facility. The car you use to take the test must also meet the legal and safety requirements of standard passenger cars. Should you decide to use a hired vehicle, the private hire plate number must match the plate inside the vehicle.

The DVSA test involves the following:

• Eyesight Test – The eyesight test is a very brief test that involves looking at and reading plates from a distance; 20 metres for new-style plates and 20.5 metres for older You will need to be able to read the plates accurately with or without glasses or contact lenses.

• Practical Assessment – The second part of the test is a practical assessment that requires you to demonstrate your driving abilities. You will be expected to manoeuvre your vehicle safely in order to face it in the opposite direction, demonstrate a safe stop at the side of the road (as you would to pick up or let off passengers), and do roughly 10 minutes driving without being given turn-by-turn instructions by an examiner.

The entire time involved in the DVSA test is about 40 minutes. A passing grade will only be achieved if you complete the practical assessment with nine or fewer faults. Automatic failure will result from any serious or dangerous faults.

The HGV Training Centre does not offer classes to prepare drivers for the DVSA test. However, our list of training options does include all the training you would need to get a PCV licence. We invite you to learn more about our training if you are interested in driving a bus or coach professionally. We offer HGV training for future lorry drivers as well.

If your plans are to drive a taxi instead, we recommend studying up and practising your driving skills in anticipation of having to take the DVSA or the PHV licence.

Sources:

Gov.UK – https://www.gov.uk/dvsa-taxi-driving-test