MEDICALS, POINTS AND REQUIREMENTS: TfL suspends and revokes 160 taxi driver licences so far in 2023

In a recent freedom of information request, it was revealed that Transport for London (TfL) has taken action to revoke a total of 160 taxi driver licences so far in 2023.

TfL, responsible for overseeing the licensing of taxi and private hire drivers, has implemented a range of requirements to guarantee that drivers are fit and proper to hold a licence. These requirements include meeting the DVLA group 2 medical standards on fitness to drive and undergoing an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

To determine the eligibility of drivers, TfL also considers information provided by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency and any other relevant sources, including disclosures received from the police. In cases where the police bring forward allegations concerning TfL licensed drivers, TfL assesses the potential risk to public safety and may take licensing action, such as suspension or revocation of the driver's licence.

Notably, TfL has the authority to suspend or revoke a driver's licence even before charges or convictions, if they believe there is an immediate risk to public safety. In some instances, licensing action may be taken independently of the outcome of ongoing police investigations and court proceedings.

The statistics may vary with the outcome of legal proceedings and it is worth noting that the figures for the previous year, 2022, saw 237 drivers losing their licences.