Council introduces exams for taxi drivers

Richmondshire District Council announced yesterday that a new test – similar to the famous “knowledge” exams which exist in London – will be introduced for all new applicants hoping to secure a taxi licence.

The council has overhauled the rule book for taxi operators throughout Richmondshire to ensure the trade is properly regulated and passengers remain safe.

A knowledge test was launched in 2007 in Hambleton, and the move to introduce similar exams in Richmondshire is aiming to mirror the system in the neighbouring district.

All current licensed and new drivers will also each be required to attend and pass a customer care course every year to ensure that they are adhering to the standards set by the council, which is the licensing authority.

New drivers must pass the course within 12 months of obtaining their licence, while existing drivers have until March 2013.

Drivers will each now be required to undergo a medical examination by a doctor of their choice as a condition of obtaining an initial licence.

The medical check-up will be required every five years from an initial application, regardless of age, until the age of 70 years and annually after that.

A code of conduct has also been introduced – which has placed a focus on personal hygiene and dress.

Private hire operators will be required to undergo a basic criminal record disclosure every three years at their expense unless they already hold a driver’s licence.

A taxi forum is also being launched to represent the 65 Hackney carriage drivers and 50 private hire drivers who operate in the Richmondshire district.

Details of the new policies and rule book can be seen at www.richmondshire.gov.uk .