How long does it take to train to be a taxi driver in London?


How long does it take to train to be a taxi driver in London? It takes between two to four years to learn and pass the 'All London' Knowledge and this takes a considerable amount of commitment and dedication. Once you are licensed you can work anywhere in the Greater London area and the bene?ts of this are huge.


How hard is the London taxi exam?

The Knowledge of London test is renowned around the world for being one of, if not the, hardest taxi knowledge test in existence. Often referred to as simply, 'The Knowledge' aspiring London cabbies can expect to spend around 3-4 years of study before being able to pass the test.


Is there a shortage of taxi drivers in London?

It comes as a major shortage of drivers continues to cause problems for the industry. A survey of over 1,000 regular taxi users, commissioned by taxi technology company Autocab, found that 68 per cent of Londoners had struggled or completely failed in their attempt to book a taxi since December 2021.


Is it worth becoming a taxi driver UK?

According to the National Careers Service, an experienced taxi driver working around 40 hours a week might expect to make around £30,000 per year. As a one-person business, it's largely down to you. If you're prepared to put in the hours and work at anti-social times, your profits could soar.


How long does it take to become a Taxi Driver UK?

To become a taxi driver, it usually takes between 12 and 16 weeks if you apply directly to your local authority. If you decide to take a college course before applying for your taxi driver's licence, you're usually looking at a couple of days to complete a Level 2 NVQ.


Are taxi drivers in demand?

Yes, taxi cab driver jobs are in demand. Taxi cab driver demand is projected to grow 20% from 2018 to 2028.


How can I be a good taxi driver?

Here are some tips for making your taxi driving experience successful.
  • Learn and Master Your Routes. You don't want to be wasting time looking at GPS or a map while passengers are waiting in the car. ...
  • Embrace New Technology. ...
  • Be Personable. ...
  • Maintain Safety At All Times. ...
  • Remember the Basics.


Is it hard to become a taxi driver in the UK?

You need to able to work legally in the UK. You need to have held a full GB, NI or EU driving licence for at least 12 months. You need to be willing to have your background checked, which may include an enhanced criminal record check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)


Why Uber not allowed in London?

Uber first lost its license to operate in London in 2017 after TfL accused the company of demonstrating “a lack of corporate responsibility” with potential “public safety and security implications.” It cited the company's shortcomings when it came to reporting criminal offenses, issuing driver background checks, ...


Can you make a living as a taxi driver?

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for taxi drivers and chauffeurs in the US is $30,050. This works out at around $14.50 an hour. Taxi drivers earn much lower than the average salary in the US.


Are London taxis cash only?

Yes, you can hail a London black taxi in the street and pay the driver in cash at the end of your journey. Most cabs also accept credit and debit cards now.