Changes to the Knowledge of London aim to modernise without lowering taxi standards, says Mayor
- Perry Richardson
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 hours ago
Amendments to the Knowledge of London are being made to modernise the process without compromising its high standards, according to the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
In response to a question from London Assembly Member Alex Wilson, the Mayor confirmed that updates are being carried out as part of a wider action plan. Wilson had asked for details on what changes are being made and how the long-standing benchmark for taxi drivers will be protected.
The Knowledge, introduced in 1865, requires London taxi drivers to memorise thousands of streets and landmarks across the capital. The Mayor stated that it will reach its 160th anniversary in 2025 and remains a globally respected qualification.
Khan referred Wilson to a previous written response, which outlined Transport for London’s (TfL) recent publication of a fixed list of 6,000 Points of Interest. Only locations from this list can be used in candidate assessments, aimed at increasing fairness and transparency.
TfL is also revising the official Guide to Learning the Knowledge, commonly known as the Blue Book, to reflect these changes. Support for Knowledge schools and efforts to promote the profession to under-represented groups are also part of the plan.
The Mayor said TfL will continue reviewing the Knowledge to improve efficiency while keeping its current standard intact. He confirmed that any future amendments would involve discussions with trade representatives before being introduced.
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, said: “The Knowledge of London is a world-renowned standard for taxi drivers that celebrates its 160th anniversary in 2025.
“Please see my response to Mayor’s Question 2025/0687 that sets out the changes TfL has already or will shortly implement to the Knowledge of London.
“The action plan also identifies a need to keep the Knowledge under review, and to consider whether further changes beyond those already identified are needed to modernise and make the Knowledge more efficient, while maintaining the current high standard. Any proposed changes would be discussed with trade representatives prior to being finalised or implemented.”
