Taxi trade wants to retain ‘gold standard’ Knowledge test but make it ‘relevant in the modern world’ says Mayor of London
The London taxi trade ‘wants to retain the Knowledge’s gold standard while ensuring it remains relevant in the modern world’ says the Mayor of London.
The Mayor of London revealed Transport for London (TfL) is actively reviewing the Knowledge of London, the renowned test for the city's taxi drivers, in consultation with taxi trade representatives. This move aims to ensure that the Knowledge continues to represent the 'gold standard' of taxi driver training while adapting to the needs of the modern world.
The Knowledge of London is an extensive training and examination process that black cab drivers in London must complete to be licensed. Established in 1865, it requires drivers to memorise every street and significant location within a six-mile radius of Charing Cross. Candidates typically spend several years learning around 20,000 streets and landmarks and places of public interest, a task often compared to earning a degree in terms of difficulty and commitment.
Responding to a London Assembly written question on the topic, Khan emphasised the taxi trade's desire for the Knowledge to evolve while maintaining its high standards. TfL's ongoing review includes discussions with taxi trade representatives, with a meeting held on 21 November 2023 to consider further changes and updates on the progress of already agreed proposals.
Khan said: “Transport for London (TfL) carried out a review of the Knowledge of London, discussed this with taxi trade representatives and is actively progressing a number of actions.
“The taxi trade indicated that it would like further changes to be made. TfL met with taxi trade representatives on 21 November 2023 to listen to their ideas for further changes they would like and to provide an update on progress of proposals that have already been agreed.
“The taxi trade has been clear that it wants to retain the Knowledge’s gold standard while ensuring it remains relevant in the modern world.”
The results of the Knowledge of London review are set to be released soon.
