Private hire driver convicted of plying for hire must pay nearly £2,000 in fines and costs

A private hire driver has been convicted at Bath Magistrates' Court for illegally plying for hire.

The driver was sentenced on 19 August, receiving six penalty points on their DVLA record alongside fines and costs totalling £1,845.

Additional charges included operating without insurance, failing to wear a badge, and having a defective light.

The conviction has sparked discussions within the industry, as the case now heads to the Council, which will determine whether further action should be taken against the driver's licence.

The law around plying for hire is clear: private hire drivers are not permitted to pick up passengers without a pre-booking. Unlike hackney carriages, which can be hailed on the street or found at taxi ranks, private hire vehicles must be booked in advance through a licensed operator.

This distinction exists to protect both passengers and drivers. When a private hire driver picks up a fare without a booking, they are operating outside the terms of their insurance, effectively rendering it void. This exposes both the passenger and the driver to significant risks in the event of an incident.

Moreover, the requirement for pre-booking ensures that all journeys are logged and traceable. This enhances passenger safety and enables authorities to monitor the industry effectively.