TfL Seeks Your Input on London Taxi and Private Hire Safety Improvements
Transport for London (TfL) is stepping up its efforts to enhance safety and security for taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) passengers in the capital.
TfL has launched a new consultation proposing 19 changes aimed at improving safety and safeguarding across the industry. The focus will be on protecting children and vulnerable adults; however, the proposals are expected to benefit all passengers.
These proposals come in response to the Department for Transport's (DfT) 2020 Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards, which set the bar for safety and security in the sector.
While most of these standards are already in place in London, TfL has identified 10 additional areas that require further compliance.
To address these gaps, TfL is introducing nine new proposals and reviewing four other areas to build on the DfT's Standards.
What is TfL proposing?
Some of the key proposed changes that will impact London's taxi and private hire industry include:
Requiring taxi and PHV drivers, as well as PHV operators, to inform TfL of any arrest, charge, or conviction within 48 hours.
Mandating that all taxis and PHVs display complaints signage to encourage passengers to report issues.
Introducing a Certificate of Good Conduct for taxi drivers, PHV operators, and PHV drivers to cover any time spent outside the UK since turning 18.
Implementing a mandatory safety, equality, and regulatory understanding assessment for all new and renewing taxi drivers.
Monitoring speaking and listening skills demonstrated by taxi drivers when completing the Knowledge of London assessment to ensure their English language skills meet the required standards.
Applying new licensing policies immediately, whenever possible, and reviewing existing licenses when changes in requirements occur.
Retaining DBS certificates for taxi drivers and PHV drivers where information is recorded.
TfL is also seeking suggestions on how to make taxis safer through a digital database that would allow passengers to verify the licensing status of taxi drivers and taxis before their trip.
Make sure your voice is heard
Taxi drivers have been contacted and urged to participate in the consultation, which is open until 12 May 2023. The success of this initiative will rely on the collaborative efforts of TfL and those involved in London’s taxi industry.
You can submit your response to the consultation here.
Once the consultation ends, TfL will consider all the feedback received and prepare a consultation report to help determine any changes to licensing requirements. This report will be available to all participants and published on TfL's website.