T
he Book Your Theory Test Online blogger covers the tests you need to take to become a taxi driver.
The answer is yes. You are required to pass a UK theory test in order to become a taxi driver. Similar to ‘civilian’ motorists you will need to understand the rules of the road and apply that understanding to the theory test and what’s known as the DVSA taxi driving assessment.
In order to find out whether you would need to take the taxi driver assessment you will need to contact your local council. If you do need to, then you can book your theory test and taxi assessment via Book Your Theory Test Online, simply visit our official website – www.bookyourtheorytestonline.co.uk
Following successful completion of your theory test you have the option to take 1 of 3 taxi driving exams, which include:
- The standard driving assessment
- The enhanced assessment – this includes a wheelchair exercise
- The upgrade assessment, if you’ve done the standard assessment and now want to do the wheelchair exercise
What does the taxi theory test and assessment involve?
The taxi theory test is similar to the standard theory test except there will be questions related to taxi driving.
The practical assessment will last for approximately 40 minutes and begin with an eyesight test.
For the eyesight test you will need to read a number plate from a distance of:
- 20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate
- 20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate
A ‘new-style number plate’ refers to those starting with two letters followed by two numbers, for example HG54 AAA.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses you must be wearing them for the duration of the assessment. Should you fail the eyesight test, you will be unable to proceed with taking the practical exam.
The standard practical assessment will include the following tasks:
- A manoeuvre where you’ll be asked to turn your vehicle to face the opposite direction
- Approximately 10 minutes of driving without being given turn-by-turn directions by the examiner
- Stops at the side of the road as if a passenger is getting in or out
- Related questions, for example what to do if a passenger leaves property in your vehicle
- Questions from the Highway Code and identifying traffic signs and road markings
In some cases you may be required to perform an emergency stop.
To pass the assessment you need to record 9 faults or fewer. You will fail immediately in the event of a serious or dangerous fault.
If you’re taking the enhanced assessment, you will be required to perform a wheelchair exercise. All tasks in the standard assessment will apply, with the addition of the wheelchair exercise.
To take the enhanced exam, you will need to bring a wheelchair accessible vehicle and demonstrate your ability to:
- Safely load and unload the wheelchair in your vehicle
- Use the wheelchair brakes to secure and release it
- Fasten the seat belts or safety harness
- Secure any wheel belts or clamps fitted to your vehicle
There you have it folks, the taxi theory test and practical assessment explained.
Good luck with your taxi driving test!!!
Book Your Theory Test Online offers an intermediary service assisting clients with booking a UK theory test, or practical test, at test centres across the nation. The service also supplies resources to help you prepare for your theory test – Ready to take your theory test? Book your theory test online today…
