Taxi and Private Hire

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Applications

Please select an application type from the list below for further details:

1. driver
2. vehicle, partnership, change of manager
3. change of vehicle
4. variation of licence (advertising)
5. miscellaneous.

Fares

Are calculated using a calibrated meter according to the City of Edinburgh approved Fare Table (PDF 27Kb) A copy of this fare table must be clearly displayed in all taxis and PHCs with meters. PHCs with a meter may charge less than the approved fare table indicates. For taxi journeys outside of Edinburgh, or with PHCs without a meter, the fare must be negotiated before the journey commences.

Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 - Section 10

There are two categories of vehicle currently licensed by the City of Edinburgh Council: the traditional London style black taxi, and other vehicles known as private hire cars (PHCs).

There are approximately 1266 licenced Taxis and 830 licenced PHCs in Edinburgh.

All vehicles have undergone stringent tests for roadworthiness and drivers have undergone background checks prior to granting of their licence. Taxi drivers have also completed a training course.

Taxis

Can be found at taxi ranks throughout the city and can be flagged down in the street. The majority can carry up to 5 passengers and all are wheelchair accessible. Some taxi drivers are exempt from carrying wheelchair users on medical grounds and must display a wheelchair exemption certificate clearly in the taxi.

Private hire cars

Can only be hired by booking in advance with a Private hire operator and can not be hailed in the street. PHC vehicles must be approved by the City of Edinburgh Council and display a PHC plate on the dashboard. Some PHCs can carry up to 8 passengers.

Complaints

Should you wish to lodge a complaint regarding a related matter by e-mail, please supply your full name, address and sign the message.

Approved taxi stances

Edinburgh has a number of approved taxi stances.  A printable list of approved taxi stances is available.

Taxi/PHC Licence Conditions (141 kB) (141 kB)