The Knowledge is the test that drivers of London black cabs must pass to show that they know the name and location of every street and the shortest or quickest route to it.
How do London cab drivers learn the knowledge?
Most people who apply to become a licensed taxi driver and take the Knowledge of London exam use a scooter to help learn the runs.
What is the knowledge test for taxi?
The Knowledge of London taxi knowledge test is considered one of the most rigorous examinations for taxi drivers in the world. It consists of 7 stages, including a self-assessment, a written exam, 3 oral exams, a driving exam, and a series of talks to test your knowledge of London’s roads, landmarks, and destinations.
What skills do taxi drivers need?
To become a Taxi Driver, you’ll need:
- to be a confident driver who is able to drive well in any road and weather conditions.
- a helpful, trustworthy and patient manner.
- some number skills, as you’ll be dealing with cash a lot.
- to be able to deal with all types of people including the occasional awkward or difficult customer.
What do you need to be a taxi driver in London?
How to apply
- You must be at least 18 years old at the time of applying (although you cannot be licensed until you are 21 years old).
- You must hold a full DVLA, Northern Ireland, or other European Economic Area state driving licence.
- You must have the right to live and work in the UK.
How hard is the Knowledge test London?
The Knowledge of London test is renowned around the world for being one of, if not the, hardest taxi knowledge test in existence. Often referred to as simply, ‘The Knowledge’ aspiring London cabbies can expect to spend around 3-4 years of study before being able to pass the test.
How hard is the London taxi test?
That’s why London taxi drivers must pass one of the most difficult tests in the world that goes far beyond anything a GPS could tell them. The test is known as the Knowledge, and it takes candidates, on average, four years of study.
How can I learn Knowledge?
What else might you do to gain knowledge?
- Read. The essential way to learn about anything is by reading quality literature: books, articles, and blogs.
- Listen.
- Watch.
- Use Microlearning.
- Follow the “one thing a day” rule.
- Socialize.
- Explain things to others.
How much do London taxi drivers earn?
Average £43,206 per year
Is this useful?
Do taxi drivers still have to do the knowledge?
It’s still a requirement and helps keep the number of black cab drivers limited without having to impose quotas. Theoretically, there could be an infinite number of black cab drivers but since the examinations are so difficult it imposes a limit that can be changed by making the test a little easier or a little harder.
What are 3 qualities of a good driver?
Here is a list of qualities that define a good driver.
- Driving Skills. A good driver should be highly skilled in driving.
- Great Knowledge About Driving.
- Self-Discipline.
- Great Patience.
- Always on the Alert.
- Mechanical Skills.
- A Sense of Responsibility.
- Constant Drive For Improvement.
What are the 3 skills required for safe driving?
10 Abilities and Skills required to become a safe driver
- Acquire an excellent sense of navigation.
- Be responsible and reliable.
- Keep in mind that speeding doesn’t save time.
- Know which side the fuel cap is on.
- Keep alert.
- Understand the road rules.
- Practise self-discipline.
- Be patient.
What 3 things must a driver carry with them at all times?
However, automobile drivers should be aware of the following three things every driver must have in their car.
- Every Driver Must Have a Driver’s License …
- And Automobile Registration …
- And Proof of Automobile Insurance.
- Another Thing Every Driver Must Have.
Are London taxi drivers well paid?
As London cab drivers are self-employed and dictate how many hours they work, the role – and therefore the salary – is highly individualised. Estimates indicate that the average taxi driver earns around £625 per week.
How much is a taxi licence UK?
Taxis
Licence type | Fee |
---|---|
Driver Licence (first application) three year licence | £254.00 (Made up of Non-refundable search fee £180 and Licence fee of £74). Online payment |
Driver Licence (renewal) renewable 3 yearly | £254.00 (Made up of Non-refundable search fee £180 and Licence fee of £74). Online payment |
How do you pass a taxi driving test?
Passing the test
In order to pass the test you must not get any more than 15 driving faults. If you get one serious or dangerous fault or 16 or more driving faults you will fail the test. You must also satisfy the examiner that you: have the right driving licence for the vehicle you are using for the test.
How long does it take to become a taxi driver in London?
To become a taxi driver, it usually takes between 12 and 16 weeks if you apply directly to your local authority. If you decide to take a college course before applying for your taxi driver’s licence, you’re usually looking at a couple of days to complete a Level 2 NVQ.
Is London driving difficult?
London is a tough city to drive a car in, particularly at peak times. London has a well-developed public transport system, which is often the quickest way to get around.
How long is the London driving test?
Current driving test waiting times as of October 2022.
Most test dates we are now finding are for around 4 to 6 months. Please call us on 020 7205 2251 as we may be able to help you get a driving test much quicker for your intensive driving course than those showing on the Government DVSA’s website.
How many roads do London taxi drivers learn?
To become a London cabbie all drivers are required to have a detailed knowledge of London’s roads and landmarks within a 6-mile radius of Charing Cross. They have to remember 320 routes and 25,000 streets and get to know them all by heart.
How can I learn fast easily?
Here are ten ways, backed by science, to speed up the learning process.
- Say out loud what you want to remember.
- Take notes by hand, not on a computer.
- Chunk your study sessions.
- Test yourself. A lot.
- Change the way you practice.
- Exercise regularly.
- Get more sleep.
- Learn several subjects in succession.