LOOKING GOOD ON THE JOB: UK taxi drivers have their say on uniform dress code
- Perry Richardson
- Oct 3
- 2 min read
TaxiPoint recently asked its readers whether they would support the introduction of a uniformed dress code for taxi drivers. The responses showed sharp differences of opinion, reflecting long-running debates about professionalism, self-employment, and the standards expected of the trade.
Many drivers argued that appearance matters and that the way some drivers currently present themselves harms the reputation of the profession. Several highlighted seeing colleagues working in tracksuits, pyjamas, or flip flops, and said this discouraged passengers from using taxis. One driver commented that “smarten up, buy a deodorant, and charge more — you may surprise yourselves at the upturn in business”.
Others suggested a compromise between full uniforms and no rules at all. A number of drivers backed the idea of a dress code that set basic minimum standards, such as banning football tops, sandals, and vests, but leaving flexibility over what drivers wear day to day. Some drivers said they already wore black trousers and polo shirts with company logos, which they felt struck the right balance between comfort and professionalism.
Examples from across the UK showed how policies vary. Drivers in Aberdeen and Glasgow reported that local authorities had enforced dress standards for years, and some said it created a professional image. In Belfast, drivers spoke about mandatory shirts and smart trousers, although many criticised the rules as impractical in summer and unsuited to the type of work carried out. One driver said: “We’re not driving business people about, we’re doing school runs and local trips.”
For others, uniforms are an unwelcome idea altogether. A strong section of responses focused on the principle of self-employment, with many insisting that councils and companies should not dictate what independent drivers wear. “It’s my business, I’ll wear what I want,” wrote one. Others said if they were required to wear a uniform, then they should also be treated as employees with benefits such as holiday pay, or paid higher “chauffeur-level” rates.
Hygiene and vehicle standards were repeatedly raised as more important issues than clothing. Several drivers said they often hear passenger complaints about dirty taxis and poor personal hygiene. One driver commented: “There is nothing worse than getting in a vehicle that stinks of body odour. A uniform won’t solve that.” Another said: “Clean cars and clean drivers matter more. Uniform doesn’t get passengers to their destination quicker. Experience and knowledge do.”
Cost was another sticking point. Drivers questioned who would pay for uniforms, whether they would need multiple sets, and how upkeep would be handled. Some said they would only support the idea if expenses could be claimed back through the tax system, while others warned the requirement would add yet another financial burden to a trade already under pressure from rising costs and competition.
Overall, the discussion made clear that while a smarter image is valued by many, a one-size-fits-all national uniform policy is unlikely to gain support across the industry. Instead, most drivers felt standards should focus on cleanliness, professionalism, and passenger service rather than strict dress requirements.
