TfL prioritises taxi driver licence RENEWALS whilst dealing with cyberattack aftermath
Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed it is still dealing with the cyber security incident that is disrupting licensing processes for taxi and private hire drivers.
In a ‘Notice’ from TfL sent to all licensed taxi and PHV drivers, it states TfL acted swiftly to safeguard its systems and is collaborating closely with the National Crime Agency and the National Cyber Security Centre to address the situation.
The good news for drivers is that, so far, there is no evidence suggesting any breach of licensee data or the system used for licensing taxi and private hire services. However, access to TfL’s licensing systems was restricted as part of the protective measures, which has resulted in longer processing times for both new applications and renewals.
While access to the system has now been restored, temporary workarounds remain in place, meaning turnaround times are slower than usual.
Vehicle inspection services, including booking lines and centres, continue to operate as normal, unaffected by the incident. However, according to the Notice, TfL has prioritised licence renewals, using similar strategies deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure current drivers can stay licensed.
New applications are being processed, albeit at a slower rate, and assessments, including driver Knowledge tests, continue with reduced availability.
Drivers awaiting licence renewals or those approaching licence expiry are urged to check with TfL if they haven’t heard back within seven days of their licence expiry.
