Taxi drivers split over whether they would like to see MORE enforcement checks in their region
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
A recent reader question asking whether more taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) checks should take place regionally has sparked widespread debate among drivers.
While a slight majority support increased enforcement to boost safety and public confidence, others argue that more inspections would add unnecessary pressure and cost to those already struggling with tightening margins.
The comments collected from across the country reveal a diverse trade, with concerns ranging from unregulated cross-border work to the financial and operational burden of repeated checks.
Many drivers backed the idea of more regular checks, citing public safety as the main reason. One respondent said: “All taxis should be checked regularly from a safety point of view. Best for passengers and the public.” Others called for more targeted action against out-of-town vehicles suspected of operating unlawfully in areas they’re not licensed for. There were repeated mentions of private hire vehicles from other regions using local ranks and accepting bookings without going through an operator, which drivers said undermines the licensing system.
Several drivers said they would welcome the return of enforcement operations from earlier years, where police and licensing officers would conduct joint stop checks, often alongside the DVSA and HMRC. “Standards were higher 20 years ago,” one driver commented. “Now councils don’t even bother.”
But support wasn’t universal. Others pushed back against the idea of more checks, saying it adds pressure and stress to a profession already under scrutiny. One driver questioned whether they actually improve standards or simply serve as a revenue stream. “This is just rich pickings for police,” said one cabbie. “Money makers. They make life hard for taxi drivers.”
In areas like North Ayrshire, drivers reported already undergoing multiple checks a year, including MOTs and local authority tests. One driver said vehicles can face up to three inspections annually depending on age, with costs exceeding £80 per test. “That’s too much,” he said. “It’s getting out of hand.”
The subject of cross-border drivers and inconsistent regulation came up frequently. Some respondents said they had never been checked in decades of service, while others felt enforcement disproportionately targets local drivers. “As long as they’re checking every plate type and not just locals,” wrote one, echoing a common concern.
A few drivers raised wider suggestions, including random drug and alcohol tests, stricter vetting for new applicants, and mandatory CCTV in all vehicles. One called for facial recognition to prevent unlicensed drivers posing as legitimate ones through app-based bookings. Others wanted licensing authorities to be able to refuse entry to out-of-area drivers operating without proper approval.
The issue of enforcement is complex, with drivers balancing the need for professional standards with a call for fair treatment and support. While the public may view additional checks as a step towards safety and accountability, many drivers feel that real change requires more consistent enforcement across all licensing areas, not just increased action in some.
Until the issue of cross-border hiring and enforcement consistency is resolved, the trade is likely to remain split on how best to ensure safety without placing further strain on the workforce.
