A Unified Future? The Potential Impact of National Licensing Standards

Navigating the different licensing regulations between local authorities can be a bit of a labyrinth for taxi and private hire companies.  

Right now, licensing policies can vary greatly from one local authority to another. This can sometimes lead to confusion, as companies operating in multiple areas need to adhere to different rules and regulations. 

It also opens up the possibility of "licensing tourism," where drivers might apply for licenses in areas with perceived lower standards. 

The proposed introduction of National Minimum Licensing Standards could change this. Imagine a unified set of rules and standards across the country, potentially making the licensing process more streamlined and uniform.

The Potential Impact of National Standards 

The introduction of National Minimum Licensing Standards could level the playing field. Instead of each local authority setting its own rules, there would be a unified set of standards that every taxi and private hire vehicle operator or driver would need to meet. No matter where they are in the country. 

This could have several potential benefits: 

• Uniformity: With the same rules applying everywhere, there would be less confusion and uncertainty for operators, especially those working across different local authority areas. 

• Higher Standards: A national set of standards could help ensure that all drivers, no matter where they're licensed, meet the same high standards. This would promote trust in the taxi and private hire industry as a whole. No more worries about cross-border licensing! 

• Efficiency: A unified set of rules could potentially make the licensing process more efficient. Operators would know what to expect, and local authorities might save time and resources that are currently spent setting and enforcing their own rules. 

When will we see National Standards? 

Although the government has stated they are committed to drawing up national licensing standards, we are still no clearer on when we can expect these.  

The renewed confirmation followed an exchange in parliament. Julian Knight MP asked the Secretary of State for Transport whether his Department is taking steps to strengthen taxi licensing conditions. 

In response, Richard Holden MP, DfT Minister, replied:  

“The Department published its Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards in 2020 which focus on safeguarding standards to protect the most vulnerable, but provide benefits for all passengers. The recommendations include six-monthly DBS checks at the highest level and safeguarding awareness training for all drivers. Licensing authorities should implement these high standards unless there is a compelling local reason not to. 

“The Department has also consulted on revised Best Practice Guidance which provides recommendations on licensing issues not covered by the Statutory Standards. The final version of the guidance will be published in due course. 

“Government remains committed to legislating to create national licensing standards for taxis and private hire vehicles when parliamentary time allows.” 

And that final sentence is the key theme. Although we’ve had repeated confirmation that national standards are ‘imminent’, the fact is, we still don’t have an ETA. It has taken nearly 10 years for new Best Practice Guidance to be consulted upon, never mind national standards.  

The final version of the new Best Practice Guidance is expected later this year. You can read the consultation version here.