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TfL records ZERO warning letters for ‘yellow badge’ suburban taxi drivers working outside licensed sectors
Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that no written warning letters were issued to suburban licensed taxi drivers for accepting jobs outside their licensed sector during the periods requested.
The information was released in response to a Freedom of Information request covering the periods from 1 January to 31 December 2024, 1 January to 31 December 2025 and 1 January to 30 June 2026.
TfL’s response stated: “None as there were no warning letters issued during the specified time periods.”
A suburban driver is a London taxi driver licensed by TfL to operate in a specific suburban sector. These drivers are commonly identified by a yellow badge, unlike All London taxi drivers, who hold a green badge and can work across the capital.
Suburban drivers can accept and carry passengers within their licensed sector, subject to the rules governing London taxis. Their licence is linked to that particular area, which means they do not have the same authority as an All London driver to ply for hire throughout London.
A suburban driver may still carry passengers outside their sector in certain circumstances, such as completing a journey that began lawfully within the licensed area. However, accepting work or plying for hire outside the authorised sector can lead to enforcement action under the London Cab Order 1934.
According to the policy wording cited in the request, a written warning is normally issued for a first offence during the current and preceding licence period. Further offences may result in the suspension or revocation of the driver’s licence unless significant mitigation is provided.
