If you’re a taxi driver or if you’re running a taxi business, then it’s crucial that you adhere to the latest regulations. Following Barnsley’s recent decision to implement stricter licencing laws – including DBS checks every six months for every driver – after a deluge of illegal taxi drivers hitting the road, it’s more important than ever before to stick to the rules.
Licencing
You can’t just use a normal driving licence if you want to be a taxi driver. Instead, you need to be approved by the local authority. This is particularly important in London where drivers need to pass a special test. Potential taxi drivers in England’s capital need to pass a medical test as well as a specific knowledge test for the city.
Insurance
You must have separate insurance for your taxi or private hire vehicle. This is a legal requirement, but it can also give you peace of mind that you’re covered in case of an accident. When you’re selecting your taxi insurance, you should explore all the different options available. Comprehensive will cover you for accidents, theft, fire as well as third-party liabilities. Alternatively, you can go for third-party only which will cost less but provide you with less protection across the board. Ultimately, you should consider the environment you’re driving in and pick the most appropriate option.
DBS certification
Essentially a DBS check allows an employer or an authority to scan your past for a criminal record and the types of crimes you’ve committed. This is important for taxi drivers as the public need to be safe when they’re under your responsibility. Taxi drivers now require an enhanced DBS check which reveals any spent or unspent convictions, warnings, cautions, reprimands, or any other police information deemed relevant
Tax check
From April 2022, if you are renewing a taxi licence, you’ll need to complete a tax check. This is so HMRC can evaluate whether you’re paying the correct amount of tax. HMRC should advise you on the information you need to provide them with. This should be carried out via an online government gateway that you’ll be provided with when it comes to renewing.
Taxi regulations are set to become stricter this year. But by adhering carefully to the rules, your business should be all set to thrive in 2022.
