You’ve decided to become a cab driver, but where do you start? If you’re interested in becoming a cab driver, you can learn all you need to know in our step-by-step tutorial.
To get started as a taxi driver, you’ll need to think about a few things first. Starting with the most basic decision: do you want to be a Taxi Driver or a Private Hire Driver?
In short, Hackneys can pick up from the side of the road whilst Private Hire, all your bookings must come from an approved Private Hire Operator.
What you’ll require in order to get things started
A few prerequisites must be met before you may work as a cab driver:
At least one year’s worth of driving experience is common with most councils and a valid UK driving licence are required before you can begin working as a taxi driver in the United Kingdom. An additional need is a DBS certificate, which is a record of a criminal background check.
Medical, driving and a ‘Knowledge’ or “Cabology” test may also be required as part of your qualifications.
As soon as you have gotten your taxi driver’s licence and get your car plated with the council, it is imperative that you purchase Taxi Insurance before you begin operating your cab service.
Theory test for taxi drivers
Before granting a taxi driver’s licence, several local governments in the United Kingdom require aspiring drivers to pass an examination to verify that they have adequate knowledge and skills for the job. Knowledge of vehicle maintenance and how to show concern for other passengers are also essential skills.
Multi-choice questions and hazard identification are common features of these examinations, which you should be familiar with if you’re a frequent driver.
Find out more about being a taxi driver in Doncaster by clicking on the link below.
https://www.doncaster.gov.uk/doitonline/apply-to-be-a-taxi-driver
What should I expect to do?
What you’ll need to Get Started
Before you begin, you MUST have:
A Doncaster Council Safeguarding awareness course has been completed within the last three years.
Accomplished Doncaster Council’s test of knowledge
You must have obtained a passing score on the Doncaster Council-approved practical driving exam and the wheelchair examination in order to apply for a hackney carriage license. or Joint Drivers Licence).
Doncaster Council’s Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Licensing Policy was read and understood.
Registered with the DBS and subscribed to the Update service for your own Enhanced DBS Certificate.
You’ll need to submit the documents:
- A medical certificate that meets the requirements of Group 2 Standards (Doncaster Councils approved form). Medical professionals must have access to your medical records.
- CPR and First Aid Certificate of Completion
- Passport-sized picture documentation is required.
- Driving Licence in the United Kingdom at your present address
- Proof that you are legally allowed to work in the United Kingdom
- You will be required to obtain a ‘certificate of good character’ from the appropriate embassy if you have spent three or more continuous months overseas
Additionally, you must appear in person at the Civic Office with your original Enhanced DBS certificate once you have filed your application. An exact copy of your certificate will be made for safekeeping and returned to you.
If your application is approved, you will get a letter with your driver’s licence in the mail.
