Redditch taxi driver medicals and drug tests under review

Options for changes to the tests that ensure taxi drivers in Redditch are medically fit to drive are out for public consultation.

Taxi drivers are currently required to pass an examination, including a drug test, by a specific Redditch Borough Council approved medical practitioner. This test is then repeated every five years, and annually once they are over 65.

This medical fitness is part of the ‘fit and proper person’ test that is required in order to hold a taxi licence from the borough council. The council can revoke or suspend the licence of anyone that fails.

New options on how the tests could be done are now out for consultation and will close on 14 February 2020.

New options include whether the tests could be done by any registered GP or the applicant’s own, whether they should only be required every five years for those aged over 45, and whether the drug test should be replaced with spot checks with no or short notice.

Simon Wilkes, Head of Worcestershire Regulatory Services (WRS) which provides licensing services to the council, said: “As licence holders driving paying passengers on public roads, it’s important to assess that drivers are medically fit to drive hackney carriage and private hire vehicles. How that is done in Redditch is now under review, and the council is keen to hear from all interested parties on the proposed changes.”