Taxi Tests
Since 1st April 2006 anyone wishing to obtain a Taxi / Hackney Carriage / Private Hire licence in Bedfordshire must pass a special driving test.
The assessment is of a much higher standard than your learner test, the test route being longer with a more difficult route. The Driving Standards Agency, the people that conduct the test, strongly advises you to take professional instruction before taking the test.
To pass you are permitted to accumulate up to 9 minor driving faults. If you accumulate 10 or more you will fail and have to re-take the test. A minor driving fault for example is missing a mirror check before applying the signal or not checking into your blind spot before moving off from a parked position! Any serious or dangerous fault will obviously be a fail. The assessment test is reflective of modern driving practices and is set at a level suitable for full driving licence holders.
The test involves:
You may be asked to do an emergency stop. 1 in every 3 tests.
You will be asked to carry out two manoeuvres one of which will be your own choice, in both cases you will be expected to demonstrate your ability to manoeuvre your vehicle under control and with good all round observation.
You will be asked on a number of occasions to pull up on the left at a safe and convenient place, as if a fare is either getting in or out of your vehicle. Avoid parking next to lampposts or trees. Check your blind spot before moving off.
You need to use all your mirrors, interior and exterior at all times.
You will be expected to understand and comply with traffic signs and road markings.
Keep a safe separation distance on all types of roads.
Use sound judgement and planning when overtaking, meeting and turning in front of oncoming traffic.
You will be asked basic safety check questions regarding your vehicle.
Wheelchair accessible vehicles will be required to show you understand and are able to demonstrate safety and security.
You will be asked questions on the Highway Code and asked to identify some traffic signs. Some general cabology questions such as the length and width of the cab you are driving or the tyre pressures for the vehicle you are with. what to do if you found an item of lost property in your cab!
It is important that you read and understand the Highway Code and be familiar with your vehicle.
We are experienced in the training for this test and will provide professional guidance to help you to pass.
Costs
Very reasonable fees. We charge only £26.00 per hour for training. This is for a fully qualified, experienced trainer. Don’t be fooled by cheaper rates from some other schools who are not experienced and do not fully understand the assessment.
We also provide the Highway Code book and a list of the cabology questions you will be asked on the test.
For further information or to book some training contact us on 0845 388 4078
Please leave a message on the answer phone if we are out training during the day. We will contact you as soon as possible.
