LONDON TAXI BADGE: What is the green taxi badge, how do you obtain one and what does the number mean?

The green badge worn by generations of London taxi drivers has long distinguished those drivers that have earned the right to serve Londoners and those visiting the capital.

Issued by Transport for London (TfL), the green badge identifies a licensed taxi driver who has successfully completed the rigorous process known as ‘The Knowledge’. This badge is more than just a symbol—it's proof that the driver is fully authorised to operate a black cab anywhere within the Greater London area.

Each oval shaped brass green badge is unique, marked with a number that represents the order in which it was issued. This number is essentially the driver’s ID, providing a direct link to their licensing history. For passengers, it serves as a guarantee that the driver has met the highest standards required to navigate one of the world’s busiest cities.

The journey to earning a green badge is no small feat. Aspiring drivers must undertake The Knowledge, a process that involves memorising thousands of routes and points of interest within London. This can take anywhere from two to four years, or even longer, depending on the individual’s available time to study and learning speed. Once they pass a series of oral examinations, they are awarded their green badge, allowing them to legally operate throughout the city.

The number issued by regulators TfL also defines the driver’s place chronologically in the history of the iconic trade. A taxi driver's number can be used to date the year they received the badge and entered the industry.

This badge is not just a temporary licence; it accompanies the driver throughout their career. The number on the badge remains the same, acting as a permanent identifier linked to their professional record and remains an object of pride for those that wear it.