DfT distances itself from TfL taxi and private hire licensing delays as drivers face growing hardship
- Perry Richardson
- Jun 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 16
The Department for Transport (DfT) has distanced itself from growing concerns over significant delays in Transport for London’s (TfL) handling of private hire licensing. The delays have left many drivers unable to work, particularly those flagged for medical checks who are not eligible for temporary licences.
In a recent exchange in Parliament, Sarah Olney MP asked what steps were being taken to address the impact on those affected. She pointed to cases involving loss of income, forced sale of assets, homelessness, and small business closures.
Responding on behalf of the DfT, Minister Simon Lightwood stated that while the department sets the regulatory framework for licensing in England, the process itself is fully devolved to local authorities. He confirmed that the operation of private hire licensing in the capital is “a matter solely” for TfL.
By stating that the matter is outside central control, the DfT has made clear it will not, or can not, intervene. Delays in the licensing process continue to have serious consequences on drivers caught up in the process. Some had hoped for a coordinated government response to help speed up medical checks and licensing reviews.
The issue has become especially urgent for applicants with health conditions who are automatically excluded from temporary licensing. With full medical assessments often taking months, some drivers have reported being without work for extended periods. Many face mounting financial pressure with no alternative income.
Simon Lightwood said: “The Department for Transport is responsible for setting the regulatory structure within which local licensing authorities in England license the taxi and private hire vehicle trades but ultimately the licensing process is left at the discretion of local authorities. We work closely with TfL on a range of issues but the operation of private hire driver licensing is a matter solely for them.”
