OUT-OF-AREA PRIVATE HIRE WORKING: Is passenger safety being put at risk by Cross Border rules?
Updated: Nov 3
The growing trend of cross-border hiring, where private hire drivers operate outside the area they are licensed in, continues to raise significant safety concerns for those working within the industry.
Enabled by the rise of app-based ride-hailing platforms, this practice allows drivers to accept fares far beyond the jurisdiction of the licensing authority that vetted them. While this may increase flexibility and availability for passengers, the lack of consistent regulation across areas is becoming a serious issue.
Licensing rules for private hire drivers vary greatly from one local authority to another. All councils enforce background checks, including enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearances, but outside of that criteria there are variations around CCTV requirements, disability training, vehicle standards and of course a reduction in regular vehicle inspections.
When drivers cross borders into areas where they aren’t licensed, they may avoid complying with these local safety requirements put in place by the local authority. In some cases, drivers from areas with less stringent regulations may operate in places with higher standards, creating a potential safety gap. The lack of consistency in licensing standards across the UK means that passengers might unknowingly be picked up by drivers who have not been through the rigorous checks and training expected in their local area.
Enforcement is another key concern. Local authorities are responsible for monitoring and regulating private hire drivers operating within their jurisdiction. However, they have limited power to oversee or discipline drivers licensed by another authority. This makes it difficult to investigate complaints and enforce penalties if a passenger has a bad experience with a driver operating out of area. Without effective enforcement, passengers are left with fewer options to report misconduct or unsafe driving, reducing overall trust in the system.
As cross-border hiring becomes more common, there is an urgent need for a coordinated regulatory approach across local authorities. A national framework for licensing private hire drivers could help to ensure consistent safety standards, regardless of where a driver operates. Until such a system is in place, passengers may continue to face unnecessary risks when booking rides with drivers licensed outside their area.
