Hackney Carriage Drivers
Hackney Carriage Drivers are licensed drivers. All operators and drivers must apply via either Tandridge District Council or Commercial Services to hold a current Criminal Bureau Record and have completed and passed a medical.
All drivers must undergo a test to prove that they have general knowledge of the area. A meter must be installed in the vehicle and show the current fare rates set by Tandridge District Council.
When all relevant forms and checks are satisfactorily completed, a payment is given and the vehicle is tested. The vehicle must have the appropriate insurance for the license and the applicant must have and provide sufficient proof of ownership. The vehicle is then tested in a motor vehicle workshop.
Once the forms and tests are complete the taxi license plates, which the Council supplies, are fixed to the rear and the interior of the taxi and these remain the property of Tandridge District Council. The meter and roof light are supplied by the owner of the vehicle.
The information is also stored on the Diamond Licensing Computer System at Tandridge Commercial Services
Private Hire Vehicles
Private hire vehicles are driven by licensed drivers. All operators and drivers must hold a Criminal Bureau Record and have completed a medical form and must undergo a test to prove that they have general knowledge of the area.
The vehicle must have the appropriate insurance for the license and the applicant must have and show proof of ownership. Unlike a Hackney Carriage vehicle, a roof light must not be used but a meter can be installed if required, with the fares set by Tandridge District Council. When the forms are completed and payment is given the vehicle is tested in the motor vehicle workshop. All drivers must undergo a test to prove that they have general knowledge of the area.
Once the test and forms are complete, the plates the council supplies are fixed to the rear and the interior of the vehicle and again these remain the property of Tandridge District Council.
The information is kept solely on the Diamond Licensing Computer System.
Hackney carriage vehicles can be hailed in the streets and can use a taxi rank within the area. Private hire vehicles cannot be hailed or use a taxi rank. They must be pre-booked in advance.
Hackney Carriage taxi ranks may be found at the following locations:
For your safety, always check the driver is wearing a badge, the vehicle has a licence plate and the meter is working.
Guidance for Proprietors and Drivers of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles
