Taking a taxi
Hackney carriages
Hackney carriages can be hired from designated ranks or hailed (flagged down) in the street.
They are easy to identify, with an illuminated taxi sign on the roof. They also have identification stickers on both front doors and a yellow identification plate on the rear.
Hackney carriages are tested every six months to ensure they are roadworthy. All Hackney carriage drivers have an identification badge and have regular police checks and medicals.
Hackney carriage taxi ranks in Kirklees
Private hire vehicles
Private hire vehicles must be booked through a licensed operator (this means that you cannot flag one down). They are usually standard cars, but may be minibuses.
They have identification stickers on both rear doors and a red and white identification plate on the rear of the vehicle.
Private hire vehicles are tested every six months to ensure they are roadworthy. Each driver has an identification badge and has regular police checks and medicals.
A number of different taxi service providers operate in Kirklees.
Wheelchair access
Some providers offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Speak to them to ensure that your specific access needs can be catered for.
Guide dog owners
Guide dog owners are legally allowed access to Hackney Carriages and private hire vehicles.
- A driver must carry a disabled person and their dog without any extra charge for the dog.
- The dog must be allowed to remain with the owner while in the vehicle.
- A taxi driver may only refuse a guide dog if they have a medical exemption.
- If a driver refuses to take you and has no medical exemption in place, they will be fined and may lose their taxi licence.
Making a complaint
Complain about a taxi driver tells you what you can complain about and how to complain.
Report a crime to the Police if you see a taxi driver committing an offence.