In order to have the right to drive the iconic London cabs candidates have to pass through the world-renowned Knowledge of London Test. The Knowledge was introduced as a requirement for taxi drivers in 1865 and mastering the test typically takes students three to four years.
Do black cab drivers still have to do the knowledge?
Anyone who wants to drive an iconic London cab must memorize them all: the Knowledge of London. The Knowledge was introduced as a requirement for taxi drivers in 1865.
Can you drive a black cab for personal use?
Yes, you can buy a London taxi and keep it as a personal vehicle. However, you should ensure that you aren’t misleading people into thinking the black cab is for hire – to do so, make sure the cab is modified so it’s fit for private use.
Do black cab drivers know every street?
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.
What do you need to drive a black cab?
You’ll need to provide one document which shows you are in the UK lawfully and are permitted to work as a hackney carriage driver. You will also have to show competency in English language skills. You must have held a full driving licence for a motorcar for at least 36 months on application to become a taxi driver.
How old can a black taxi be?
Taxi Vehicle Age Limits
Between 1 November 2020 and 1 November 2022 the age limit of Euro 3, 4 and 5 diesel taxis was reduced by one year, each year. The age limit for Zero emission capable (ZEC taxis), Euro 6 vehicles and taxis new converted to run on Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) remains at 15 years.
How much does a black cab driver earn?
Average £48,382 per year.
Do black taxis have cameras?
Cameras in black cabs and minicabs can record video and sound inside the vehicle. The cameras are used to keep passengers and drivers safe. Black cab and minicab owners can choose to have cameras in their vehicle.
Do you have to book a black cab?
Minicabs can only be booked in advance. Private hire vehicles (minicabs) must be booked in advance through a licensed private hire operator. Use our search form to find a local minicab service. London’s famous taxis (black cabs) can be booked in advance, hailed on the street, or picked up from designated taxi ranks.
Can you drink alcohol in a black cab?
But for the passengers in the back it is not illegal for an adult to drink alcohol. That said, it is completely up to the taxi driver whether it’s acceptable to eat or drink in their cab. Drinking alcohol whilst moving from a to b in a taxi or private hire vehicle isn’t really accepted as normal practice.
Are black cabs safer?
Generally considered the safest form of taxi transport, but also the most expensive. Black cabs are the only taxis allowed to ply for hire – if the light on its roof is on, you can flag down a black cab on the street and jump in. Black cab drivers are skilled and very knowledgeable about routes.
What do black cab drivers do with lost property?
Most cabbies will head to the TfL Lost Property offices to hand in items as soon as it’s possible. Sometimes the item might not be found immediately, especially if it’s a dark late night or you were the final fare for the cabbie who now isn’t working for a few days!
How many people can a black taxi take?
Black cabs can carry five passengers: three on the back seat and two on the fold-down seats that face opposite. If you have a lot of luggage, ask the driver to put your bags in the space at the front next to him.
How long does it take to become a black cab driver?
No official experience is required in order to become a London cab driver, but in practice countless hours scouting London streets in order to find the best routes is necessary. Passing the Knowledge generally takes between two and four years of learning and study.
How long does it take to do the Knowledge?
Once you have been accepted by TFL onto the Knowledge you are given 2 years to complete the runs and the 1/4 mile radius areas however it can be done much quicker than this so if you think you are ready before you can apply before the 2 years.
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 are black cabs called?
hackney carriages
There are quite a few differences between black taxis and private hire vehicles. Black taxis: Are also called hackney carriages, or black cabs, although they can be any colour.
Can a 13 year old go in a taxi alone?
There are no age restrictions when travelling in a Taxi (Black Cab).
Can black cabs take children?
Taxis and minicabs (private hire vehicles)
If the driver doesn’t provide the correct child car seat, children can travel without one – but only if they travel on a rear seat: and wear an adult seat belt if they’re 3 or older.
Why do cab drivers ask for cash?
Every day they clear their expenses with the earnings from their previous day. Since most drivers have meagre savings, they need a steady cash flow to meet their ends, refuel and maintain their vehicles and support their families.
Is it worth being a taxi driver UK?
Did you know that experienced private hire taxi drivers who work an average of 40 hours per week can expect to make around £30,000 per year? This is according to the National Careers Service. If you’re prepared to put in the work and be available during unsociable hours, you can see your profits reach new heights.