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Legislation
The Public Carriage Office was set up in 2004 to oversee the private hire industry in London. All 32 London boroughs fall under the responsibility of the Public Carriage Office.
The Private Hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998 provides the legal power for licensing and regulation of private hire operators, drivers and vehicles. Private Hire vehicles in London include minicabs, executive cars and chauffeur services.
Transport for London is responsible for licensing the private hire trade. The purpose of the regulation is to give passengers confidence when using a licensed PHV operator that they are dealing with a regulated, professional organization with safe, honest drivers and safe vehicles.
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On the 8th April 2004, Ken Livingstone announced the final stage to introducing licensing to London's private hire industry. From the 8th June 2004, all private hire vehicles have been required to meet strict safety standards to trade legally by holding a Public Carriage Office (PCO) license. A distinctive disc is now displayed in the front and rear windscreen to indentify the vehicle as licensed for private hire.
With the introduction of the legislation, all vehicles need to be licensed so that the driver can legally carry passengers. One year on from first registration date, a licensed vehicle will require an MOT every 6 months and an annual PCO test and certification. The vehicle is required to have fully comprehensive hire and reward insurance that allows the carry of passengers legally.
Should a driver not comply with this legislation and opt to use an unlicensed vehicle to pick up passengers they face a fine of up to £5000 and/ or face a criminal conviction.
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