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Drop in Northern Ireland taxi driver numbers reaches decade-low levels
The number of taxi drivers in Northern Ireland is falling, reaching its lowest point in over a decade, according to the latest figures from the DVA Public Transport Licensing Division.
At the end of June 2024, there were 7,482 licensed taxi drivers, a 2.3% drop from the 7,665 recorded at the same time in 2023. This marks the lowest number of taxi drivers since 2013/14, reflecting a continuing decline that has characterised the industry in recent years.
Despite an initial surge in 2023/24, with 1,976 taxi driver licences issued—up by 28.7% from the previous year—this momentum did not carry into the new financial year. The first quarter of 2024/25 saw 529 new licences issued, a decrease from the 590 issued in the equivalent quarter of 2023/24 and also below the 469 licences from the previous quarter.
This steady decline points to broader pressures on the taxi sector. Factors such as long licensing testing periods, changing workforce demographics, and potential challenges in recruiting and retaining new drivers could be contributing to this downward trend.
The number of operators has also dipped slightly, down to 1,108 by mid-2024, the lowest level in over a decade, further signalling a sector grappling with supply-side issues, while demand for services remains high.
The fall in licensed driver numbers raises questions about the availability of services for passengers, especially during peak times or in areas less well served by public transport. As driver numbers continue to decline, the resilience of the industry may depend on addressing the root causes behind this downturn.
