Anyone who wants to drive an iconic London cab must memorise them all: The Knowledge of London.” London’s black cab drivers learn the particular knowledge in order to make each route they take the shortest, quickest and, as a result, the cheapest that it can be.
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.
Do London cab drivers still need the knowledge?
London taxi drivers are licensed and must have passed an extensive training course (the Knowledge). Unlike many other cities, the number of taxicab drivers in London is not limited. For many years purpose-designed vehicles were used, but from about 2008 specially adapted “people carrier” vehicles have also been used.
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.
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.
Can a black taxi refuse a fare?
Taxi drivers are within their rights to refuse a fair – but only if they have a “reasonable excuse” or the passenger wants to travel outside of the controlled district.
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.
Are people still doing the knowledge?
Do London black cab drivers still have to do “The Knowledge”? Yes, and it shows.
How many streets do taxi drivers in London have to memorize?
25,000 streets
London cabbies spend 3.5 years memorizing the city’s 25,000 streets. Photographer Alexander Wilson documents the day in the life of black cab student.
Can a London taxi refuse to take you?
A driver of a taxi (or hackney carriage) can only refuse to carry passengers within a controlled district if he has reasonable excuse to do so. What constitutes “reasonable excuse” is ultimately a matter for a court of law to determine.
How much do black cabbies earn?
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.
Can you sit in the front of a black cab?
Before commencing your journey
In most black cabs the two front seats are usually partitioned off by a screen and it’s common for customers to sit in the back rather than in the front. Cabbies may consider it a personal space infringement for customers to sit in the seat next to them.
Do taxis record you?
The cameras operate continuously, even when the driver is using the taxi privately. This means the camera is recording when drivers are picking up their children from school, going shopping with the family, or travelling whilst on holiday. Just like the rest of us, taxi drivers are entitled to privacy.
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.
How much do London cabbies make?
Average £43,206 per year.
Can I be a taxi driver with 6 points?
If you’ve qualified to drive in the last two years the rules are tougher, and you’ll lose your licence with six points or more. But those rules are not always the same for all taxi drivers.
Is jumping a taxi illegal?
Is it illegal to leave a taxi without paying? If a passenger refuses to pay a taxi fare or leaves the vehicle without paying this could be considered a crime.
Are black cabs or Ubers cheaper?
Without any surge pricing, Uber does consistently come in cheaper by around 40%. But as most Uber riders know, during busy times Uber often charges more for the same ride in the form of surge pricing.
Is it illegal to flag down a taxi in the UK?
Types of vehicles
Hackney carriages can be hired from taxi ranks and you can flag them down in the street. Private hire vehicles have to be pre-booked through a licensed operator, either over the phone or through an app, and you cannot flag them down in the street.
Can I own a black cab?
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.
Can a 13 year old go in a taxi alone?
There are no age restrictions when travelling in a Taxi (Black Cab).