CHANGING TRADE: LTDA Executive reflects on how taxi driver life has changed since being licensed with TfL
The taxi industry has seen sweeping changes over recent decades, raising questions about its future viability, particularly under the oversight of Transport for London (TfL). Anthony Street, an Executive at the Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association (LTDA), recently reflected on the industry’s evolution in TAXI newspaper, sharing both his concerns and hopes for the trade.
Recalling a simpler time, Street highlighted how, under the Metropolitan Police’s watch, the process of licensing and vehicle inspections was straightforward. Taxis required regular, yet manageable, maintenance to pass inspections. Drivers could easily book an inspection, speak to someone directly, and receive their licence with minimal hassle.
But the shift to TfL management has introduced a layer of complexity. Street suggested the ease of getting issues resolved has diminished, with long wait times and less direct communication. While some welcome the introduction of mandatory card payments, Street questions if the move to TfL was ultimately the right call for the trade.
Street points to several challenges facing today’s drivers, particularly the rising costs of operating a taxi. The high price of purchasing a new vehicle, combined with a lack of affordable finance options, has driven many part-time drivers to leave the trade. Additionally, many drivers cannot charge electric cabs at home, further adding to their costs.
The impact of the pandemic has also left its mark, with some drivers leaving the industry for good. Stricter TfL policies on licence revocation for point penalties add to the mounting pressures drivers face. The transition from Euro 5 to Euro 6 emissions standards, and the looming 2027 deadline for Euro 5 vehicles, are further complicating the outlook for drivers.
Street stresses the importance of more affordable vehicle options. A lower-cost taxi with a longer warranty could provide much-needed relief, but there’s concern that reduced prices could compromise quality. He also suggests that revisiting the conditions of fitness, particularly the turning circle requirement, might help lower costs.
Despite these challenges, Street remains optimistic about the resilience of London’s taxi drivers. He emphasises that the industry’s future will depend on finding the right balance between cost and quality, ensuring that drivers can continue to provide the high standard of service that London taxis are renowned for.
Anthony Street, Executive at Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA), said in TAXI Newspaper: “Whether you are a veteran or a newcomer to the taxi industry, it’s undeniable that we have all witnessed significant changes over the years. For those who have been around a bit longer, memories of the boys in brown coats at Penton Street, and the annual inspection where your cab had to be in pristine condition to earn a license plate, still linger.
“Back in the day, most of us replaced parts like ball joints, and rubber washers yearly to ensure our vehicles passed inspection, and while this was costly, it was a simpler time. I remember only needing one or two services throughout the year, and with the cab on the road most of the time, the setup was cost-effective.
”When the Metropolitan Police were in charge, booking an inspection was as easy as picking up the phone and talking to a real person. Renewing your licence was just as straightforward—you’d make an appointment at Penton Street, provide your ID and pay the fee, and a friendly face behind the counter would hand you your new licence right there.
“It seems that with time, things should have become easier, but in my experience, it’s quite the opposite under TfL. Getting to speak to someone on the phone for even the simplest matter can be a real challenge. While many drivers initially welcomed the move from the Met Police to TfL, I often wonder—was it really the right choice?
"There have certainly been some positive changes, such as making credit card payments mandatory, which has modernised the way we do business. But on the flip side, fewer people are signing up for The Knowledge, the number of licensed vehicles has declined, and many drivers simply can’t afford the high cost of purchasing a new taxi. This has forced part-time drivers, who can’t justify the cost of renting or who don’t want to be tied to hefty monthly finance payments, into early retirement. The price of charging a cab has tripled, and many live in flats and cannot charge at home.
“Drivers who found other jobs during the pandemic are opting not to return to the trade because for some it's no longer financially viable. The Euro 5 to Euro 6 conversion not being approved has also been a setback, contributing to the challenges drivers face. All these factors are putting immense strain on our industry, and with TfL's stricter policies on revoking or suspending licences due to points, the situation feels even more precarious.
“Drivers I’ve spoken with share their concerns about whether staying in the trade is still viable. The stress is mounting, and it's clear that our profession is facing unprecedented hurdles.
“Many drivers agree that the LEVC taxi is an impressive vehicle, but there are ongoing concerns. Common issues like ERADs, warranty terms, an the lack of parts have been frustrating for many drivers. Even though LEVC locations like like Brewery Road or E1 and Ascots are eager to assist drivers, they often need authorisation from head office in Coventry before any work can be done, adding another layer of difficulty to an already frustrating process.
“As the deadline for Euro 5 taxis being taken off the road in 2027 approaches, and with Euro 6 vehicles potentially next on the chopping block, it’s hard not to wonder what the future holds. Without a crystal ball, none of us can be sure.
“Many in the trade believe that we need a more affordable vehicle to offer drivers more choice. A fair price, combined with a longer manufacturer’s warranty, could go a long way toward restoring faith in the product. A good finance package would also be essential. However, the concern remains that a cheaper vehicle might come at the expense of quality, both in terms of its appearance and the interior.
“Perhaps it's time to revisit the conditions of fitness and reconsider the turning circle requirement. If eliminating this feature could lower vehicle costs and make the taxi more viable, it seems worth exploring. We’ll be conducting a survey soon, asking you, the drivers, what you want and need. Ultimately, it all comes down to affordability. However you look at it, the goal is to encourage more drivers to join what is still, in my opinion, the best taxi service in the world.
“With more cabs being taken off the road each year and the price of new vehicles continuing to rise, the impact on our trade is becoming more profound. Finding a way to strike a balance between cost and quality will be crucial if we’re to maintain the high standards that have made London taxis so iconic.
“In the face of these challenges, the future of the trade is uncertain. But one thing is for sure: the resilience and adaptability of London’s taxi drivers have always been at the heart of this industry, and together, we can navigate whatever changes lie ahead.”
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