Private Hire Vehicle Driver Regulations Quiz

Private Hire Vehicle Driver Regulations

• Display driver's badge on the upper part of the body.
• Additional driver's badge must be shown on the top left front windscreen.
• Saloon cars can carry a maximum of 4 passengers; minibuses can carry 8.
• A Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) remains classified as such at all times.
• Vehicle plates and door signs must never be removed.
• Assist passengers with luggage and ensure to help them with entry and exit from the vehicle.
• Inspect the vehicle for lost property after each ride.

Licensing and Responsibilities

• Notify the Council of any address changes within 7 days.
• Private Hire Vehicle driver’s license must be submitted to the operator.
• Report any convictions or fixed penalties to the Council within 14 days.
• A driver cannot use a PHV license from one council to drive a PHV from another council.
• DBS checks for drivers are required every 3 years.
• Drivers must keep full and accurate booking records.

Safety and Compliance

• Original insurance documentation must be presented to the Council.
• Police and Council can inspect the original insurance certificates at any time.
• Vehicles should carry a fire extinguisher and first aid kit at all times.
• Passengers can travel in the front seat using normal seatbelt restraints if they are at least 12 years old.

Procedures and Reporting

• Report lost driver badges to the Council.
• Provide complete and accurate info on DBS applications.
• PHVs must take the most direct route unless requested otherwise by the passenger.
• Drivers must comply with all traffic regulations and not obstruct roads or pavements.
• Notify the Council of changes to medical circumstances within 24 hours.

Appeal and Operator Changes

• Drivers can appeal the Council’s decision within 21 days to the Magistrates Court.
• Notify Licensing Services in writing at least 24 hours before changing operators.
• Changes to operators cannot occur more than once within a 48-hour period.

Vehicle Age and Maintenance

• Vehicles must be no older than 12 years to be licensed.
• No smoking signs must be displayed at all times within the vehicle.
• If drivers are aged 45+, they require a medical exam every 5 years; those over 65 need one annually.

Child and Vulnerable Passenger Policies

• The driver is responsible for ensuring a child of 12 wears a seatbelt.
• Report any concerns about child exploitation or suspicious behavior.
• Inform the operator if a vulnerable passenger is transported.
• Ensure not to double book passengers.

Fare Policies and Acceptable Practices

• Drivers cannot charge higher fares than displayed on the meter.
• If passengers leave property in a vehicle, it must be reported within an acceptable time limit.
• Passengers can book PHVs in person but cannot hail them on the street without an advance booking.

Prohibition of Cruising

• It’s illegal for PHV drivers to cruise for fares and they cannot accept hails from passengers who haven’t booked.

Accidents and Inspections

• Report accidents to Licensing Services within 72 hours as per the Local Government Act 1976.
• Maintenance policies and vehicle records must be readily available for inspections by the local authority and taxi base.

Additional Responsibilities

• Display all required ID badges while operating.
• Assist elderly passengers courteously while avoiding personal involvement beyond their front door.
• Maintain a duty of care to ensure all passengers are treated with dignity and respect.