Private Hire Driver: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Private Hire Driver
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Private Hire Driver mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Private Hire Driver?
A Private Hire Driver is someone who drives passengers in a private vehicle for hire, typically a minibus, coach, or luxury car, often on pre-booked journeys. It's different from being a regular bus driver as it involves more personalised service and often leads to driving clients on long trips or special events.
Skills
- Excellent driving skills and knowledge of traffic regulations
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Ability to navigate efficiently and use GPS systems
- Good time management and organizational skills
- Patience and ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately
- Knowledge of vehicle maintenance and basic troubleshooting skills
- Ability to work independently and make quick decisions
- Flexibility and willingness to work irregular hours, including weekends and evenings
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well with diverse groups of people
Qualifications & Education
- Possession of a full car driving licence
- Successful completion of the Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) test, which includes a theoretical examination and assessed driving
- Minimum age requirement of 18 years old for entry to the PCV test
- Optional NVQs/SVQs in Transporting Passengers by Road available at Levels 2 and 3
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a self-employed taxi driver in the UK, you need to complete a driving skills assessment, have a full UK or EU driving licence for at least 12 months (or three years if working in London), pass background checks, pass a medical check, and be over 18 (or over 21 in some areas, including London).
Yes, it can be worth becoming a private hire driver in the UK. Being a private hire driver allows you to be your own boss and have flexibility in choosing your working hours. This can make it easier to earn money in your spare time.
The duties of a private hire driver in the UK include picking up and delivering customers, taking the fastest and safest route, helping to load and unload the vehicle, calculating the fare and returning the correct change, and keeping the vehicle clean and in good working order.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Private Hire Driver mock interview, under 10 minutes
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