London taxi drivers who let their licences expire are looking for a way BACK IN as work levels soar

An increasing number of former London taxi drivers are looking for a way back in after letting their licences expire, reveals the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA).

Drivers who had passed the Knowledge of London (KoL) to earn the sought-after taxi badge, but let their licence lapse, are said to be eager to re-join the industry as work levels soar and driver shortages remain.

The LTDA have urged any driver looking to return to the ranks to get in touch with the association.

A significant number of drivers left the taxi industry during the coronavirus pandemic when work levels were at an all-time low. Since restrictions were fully eased earlier this year demand has bounced back rapidly.

Lloyd Baldwin, LTDA Executive SO, said in TAXI Newspaper: “I had a few calls over the last few months from cabbies, who for one reason or another, have let their license expire. Many have heard about the work levels and want to come back to the trade. Some cabbies took jobs in other industries and then found for one reason or another that it wasn’t for them, and now want to drive a cab again. A few of them have been honest enough to say how they regret it. They admit that they were reeled in by the doom and gloom merchants.

“You need to apply to renew your license within three months of the expiry date. If it goes beyond that, you have to apply as a new driver. If you apply within two years of expiry, you will not have to do any Knowledge appearances.

“If you exceed the two years, you will be required to complete a topographical test. The application forms you need to complete will be for a new driver, and you will end up being given a new badge number.”