Berkshire Driving School - TAXI Test
Taxi Test Enquiries to : john@berkshire-driving-school.co.uk
Topics on this page: The Taxi Test : Tips when taking the test
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The Taxi Test
The taxi test lasts about 40 minutes. You do not have to display 'L' plates but an extra rear view mirror should be provided for the examiner. You will need to demonstrate the use of wheelchair ramp and clamps but if your vehicle is not equipped for this, you can be assessed on this separately. If you have not taken the theory test you must be prepared to answer questions on the driving test and other motoring matters.
An eyesight test is included in the test before you drive.
The test could include an emergency stop and another manoeuvre which the examiner will choose. This may be reversing into a side street on the right hand side of the road. Take care when moving to the right or when returning to your side of the road. In addition, you may be asked to turn the vehicle round by any method of your choice. You may not cross the pavement or strike the kerb to achieve this. A 'U' turn is permitted if the turning circle of your vehicle permits this. Naturally good vehicle control and constant all-round vigilance is required, whatever method you choose.
The test will test as much as possible, the type of driving needed in the profession of taxi driver and you should drive with a high degree of mechanical sympathy and smoothness, the qualities shown by an expert driver. You will be asked to stop many times during the test to simulate picking up a fare. Select stopping positions carefully and confidently. Ensure good observation at all times.
A working knowledge of taxi regulations will be needed. Most will be common sense. Note however that current local bye-laws, children under the age of twelve years of age are considered to be half a person when part of the number of persons allowed to ride in the cab as specified on the plate affixed to the rear of the vehicle, and one or two babies under the age of three do not contribute to the passenger number. However you should comply with the construction and use regulations for the vehicle and other traffic regulations. Note that regulations can be revoked or altered at any time so higher authority prevails over anything published on this site.
Passengers often leave articles behind in your vehicle so you must be prepared to show the examiner that you are aware of the problem and the measures you will take to deal with this.
Licensed taxis may be allowed to use parts of the road system denied to other drivers. Be aware of your rights if regulations permit.
Note that local authorities may impose limits on advertising or colours used on the bodywork of the taxi-cab. Examiners will not be concerned if your vehicle is not an approved colour.
Revised information July 2008
Tips when taking the Taxi Test
Official advice on taking the taxi test- transport office taxiproviders
You may be asked to perform an emergency stop. Act promptly and brake firmly, allowing the ABS to operate. Do not feather the brakes. Apply the handbrake and put the vehicle in neutral if the examiner does not ask you to drive off straight away. Remember to look around when you are asked to move off again.
You will be asked to carry out two manoeuvres one of which will be your own choice. This is likely to be turning the vehicle round my any means you choose. You may do a 'U' turn, 'three point turn' drive round a roundabout, reverse into a side street, drive into a quiet road and turn the vehicle there?..using your judgement as an experienced driver. When manoeuvring you will be expected to demonstrate your ability to have your vehicle under control and with good all round effective observations, giving consideration to other road users and pedestrians.
You will be asked on a number of occasions to pull up on the left at a safe and convenient place, as if a fare is either going to get in or out of your vehicle - avoid parking next to lamp posts trees and puddles as these could be potentially hazardous for your passenger.
Whenever you have been stationary at the side of the road, remember to look around and check your blind spots before pulling away. If you have stopped on the right hand side of a one-way street you definitely must check the left hand side when moving off.
You need to use all your mirrors effectively (interior and exterior) and at the appropriate times. You should demonstrate that you are aware of what is happening around your vehicle at all times. The DSA use the word 'demonstrate' which implies a slight degree of 'hamming it up' - but don't overdo it.
You need to signal correctly and in good time to let other road users know your intention - other road users need to see and understand what you plan to do. Don't forget that your speed, position and eye contact are also ways of signalling. Flashing headlights should only be used to draw attention to yourself. No signal should confuse other road users. Be aware that arm signals may have an advantage in some situations.
You will be expected to understand and comply with traffic signs and road markings, as they are there to help you anticipate and plan your journey. You will also need to see and react to signals given by the police, traffic wardens etc and signals given by other road users. The examiner may offer advice during the test if road signs have been obscured for some reason. He does not expect you to have local knowledge. He will, however expect you to make your own decisions and you should follow the road ahead unless told otherwise.
You must be able to demonstrate your ability to make smooth progress when the speed signs and the road and traffic conditions dictate it is safe to do so - equally it is important to demonstrate that you recognise and comply when in a lower speed limit area.
Do not drive too close to the vehicle in front, do not shave parked vehicles and allow a space to drive off forwards if the vehicle in front brakes down.
Use sound judgement when overtaking, meeting oncoming vehicles and when turning right in front of oncoming traffic. Do not cause another vehicle to brake or swerve to avoid you.
Demonstrate that you are aware of other road users at all times, plan ahead predict how the actions of others will affect your driving and react in good time. Be aware of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists etc, act in good time rather than at the last moment.