Navigating the busy streets of London as a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) driver requires a thorough understanding of the city’s driving and parking regulations. These rules ensure that you can provide efficient service while maintaining the safety and flow of traffic. Here’s a guide on how to drive and park safely and legally in London.
General Driving and Parking Rules
PHVs vs. Taxis:
PHVs are not permitted to drive in bus lanes, park, wait, or pick up passengers at taxi ranks, or use electric taxi charge points.
Always follow road signs indicating access for taxis, as PHVs do not have the same privileges.
Stopping and Waiting:
You can stop to pick up or drop off passengers in areas with limited waiting or stopping rules but ensure not to obstruct traffic or endanger other road users.
Avoid stopping on zig-zag lines (e.g., near pedestrian crossings or schools)
Signage and Restrictions:
Always check the signage for stopping or waiting restrictions and adhere to them strictly. This includes single and double yellow lines, areas where loading is prohibited, and most parking bays.
Bus lanes and bus stops have specific rules. While you can pick up or drop off passengers in most bus lanes, avoid this if possible, to prevent delays and obstruction.
Specific Areas and Rules
Red Routes:
These main roads are marked with red lines and are crucial for maintaining traffic flow. You can pick up or drop off passengers on single or double red lines, but do not wait in these areas under any circumstances, except briefly between 22:00 and 06:00 for passengers using a cashpoint.
Taxi Ranks and Electric Charging Points:
Taxi ranks are exclusively for licensed London taxis. PHVs should never park or wait on a taxi rank to avoid fines and potential licensing action.
Similarly, electric taxi charging points are for charging electric taxis only. Misuse can lead to fines and licensing consequences.
Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs):
PCNs can be issued for a variety of offenses, including parking violations and moving traffic offenses like driving in bus lanes or making illegal turns. These can be issued by enforcement officers on the spot or sent via post if the violation is caught on camera.
Congestion Charging:
PHVs entering the Congestion Charge zone must pay the daily charge unless exempt. Wheelchair-accessible PHVs listed by TfL are exempt when performing a booking within the zone.
Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)
To improve air quality, the ULEZ operates in London, affecting PHVs:
Petrol PHVs must meet Euro 4 standards, and diesel PHVs must meet Euro 6 standards to avoid the daily charge.
Wheelchair-accessible PHVs are exempt from the ULEZ charge
Tips for Safe and Legal Driving
- Plan Your Routes: Be familiar with London’s roads, especially areas with heavy restrictions and zones like ULEZ and the Congestion Charge zone.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest rules and changes from TfL. Visit their website regularly for updates on regulations affecting PHVs.
- Communicate with Passengers: Inform passengers about where you can legally stop and wait. Make sure they understand that stopping in restricted areas can lead to fines and delays.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly check your vehicle to ensure it meets all legal standards and is well-maintained to avoid unnecessary penalties.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother and more efficient driving experience in London, providing your passengers with a reliable service while staying within the bounds of the law. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and drive safely.