Government points to local authorities and the police as the ones to combat illegal PHV drivers
- Perry Richardson
- May 15
- 2 min read
The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed that responsibility for tackling illegal private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers rests with local licensing authorities and the police.
In response to a question in Parliament from Andrew Rosindell MP, Minister Simon Lightwood outlined the Government’s position, stating that while the DfT issues guidance, enforcement action remains a local matter.
The minister referenced the DfT’s Best Practice Guidance, which advises licensing authorities in England on steps to identify and limit the operation of unlicensed, uninsured and unvetted drivers. Measures include helping the public distinguish between taxis and PHVs, by requiring taxis to display a roof sign and banning such signage on PHVs.
The guidance also promotes the use of taxi marshal schemes as a way to prevent unlicensed vehicles from picking up fares illegally. Another key recommendation is the use of test purchasing exercises, which allow authorities to gather evidence and bring prosecutions against illegal operators.
Lightwood also noted the importance of avoiding unnecessary barriers in the licensing process. He warned that excessive restrictions could reduce the number of legal drivers available and unintentionally push members of the public towards unlicensed alternatives.
Simon Lightwood said: “Enforcement of the taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing regime is a matter for licensing authorities and the police.
“Best Practice Guidance issued by the Department for Transport to licensing authorities in England highlights some of the actions licensing authorities should take to reduce the use of those unlicensed, uninsured and unvetted who are seeking to illegally carry passengers. These include assisting the public to recognise the difference between taxis and PHVs; taxis should be required to display a roof sign and, these should be prohibited for PHVs. Taxi marshal schemes provide an opportunity to prevent the use of unlicensed vehicle that might be plying for hire. The important role ‘test purchasing’ can play in identifying and evidencing illegal drivers that should be prosecuted is highlighted.
“Licensing authorities should also recognise that unnecessary barriers to obtaining a licence can potentially restrict the availability of the licensed trade to such an extent that the public resort to the use of unlicensed drivers and vehicles.”
