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Making sure your taxi or private hire vehicle is legal

An unlicensed taxi is operating illegally and has not gone through the checks on drivers and vehicles that licensing authorities enforce.

Do not use a cab if:

• the driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol
• the driver does not seem to know the local area
• the vehicle seems to be too old for use as a cab
• the vehicle is in a state of disrepair

• More about the licensing of taxis and private hire vehicles

Booking a taxi or private hire vehicle

You can hail a taxi in the street or get one at a rank, and the hiring can be arranged directly with the driver. You can also pre-book a taxi.

Private hire vehicles (PHVs, known as minicabs) must always be booked through a licensed operator.

When arranging a journey using a licensed private hire vehicle, it is a good idea to arrange a fare with the operator at the time of booking.

Travelling tips

It is also a good idea to make a note of the number plate and driver's licence number and text them to someone as an extra precaution. If you have a camera phone you could also take a picture of the vehicle.

Always sit in the back of the vehicle and carry your mobile phone in your hand so it is easily accessible.

Taxi safety in London

Transport for London (TfL) has initiatives to make taxi travel safer throughout London, including marshalled ranks and making sure cabs are licensed.

Marshalled ranks

Throughout London, there are several marshalled ranks where the marshal will make sure you get a licensed cab and that the driver knows your destination. Marshalled ranks only operate in certain areas and at certain times of night, usually only at weekends.

• Find a marshalled taxi rank (opens new window)

Making sure a taxi is licensed in London

Transport for London (TfL) runs a Cab Unit which is dedicated to keeping passengers safe by stopping minicab touting and catching drivers who are unlicensed or unsafe.

It is vital that you make sure your taxi or minicab is licensed. TfL has an online database which allows you to search for licensed operators.

You can also text 'home' to 60835 and you will receive a text message listing local licensed operators.

• Find a licensed cab in London (opens new window)