Taxi driver knowledge tests

Licensed drivers require a good working knowledge of the geographical area in which they operate. This is so they can meet reasonable customer expectations. 

A knowledge test must be passed which examines knowledge of

• local geography
• highway code and bylaws
• driver code of conduct
• any conditions attached to the licence

Fees

There is a £40 fee for this test. 

If you do not pass the test

If you fail the private hire knowledge test, our policy states that:

• candidates failing a test can take further tests, but this will be on a full re-test basis at the applicant’s own expense
• up to five tests may be taken with a minimum of two weeks between each test
• if the accepted pass mark is not reached on a fifth attempt, an application will not normally be progressed  
  • requests to sit further test attempts will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis by appeal to the licensing office

What is included in the test

The test comprises six sections. All sections must be passed with a minimum of an 80% mark.

Hackney knowledge tests require a more in-depth level of knowledge than that required for the private hire test. 

Detailed knowledge will be required of:

• the Hackney Carriage Byelaws 
• a comprehensive working knowledge of the North Somerset area - such as roads, hospitals, tourist attractions, public transport depots and stations and places of entertainment and leisure 

Fees

There is a fee of £70 for this test. 

If you do not pass the test

If you fail the private hire knowledge test, our policy states that:

• candidates failing a test can take further tests, but this will be on a full re-test basis at the applicant’s own expense
• up to three tests may be taken with a minimum of two weeks between each test
• if a candidate fails three consecutive tests, then a minimum of six months should elapse before a further test is taken 

What is included in the test

The test is made up of seventeen sections.  All sections must be passed with a minimum of an 80% mark.