Taxis

All taxis must undergo a more rigorous type of test before being used on public roads and must be tested every year afterwards.

Applications for a taxi test can only be made by completing an application form at any Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) test centre.

You should make an application at least six weeks before a certificate is due.

DVA also has a primary responsibility for the enforcement of relevant legislation pertaining to the use of taxis on Northern Irelands roads. Enforcement Officers have powers to stop and inspect these vehicles at any time even whilst carrying passengers. This is to ensure that vehicles are maintained in a suitable roadworthy condition and that drivers and their vehicle are appropriately licensed.

If your vehicle is stopped you may be delayed for a short period whilst a number of checks are completed. These may include checks with regard to:

• Roadworthiness
• Public Service Vehicle Licence
• Insurance Certificate
• Taxi Driving Licence
• Taxi Plating
• Specialist equipment carried (taxi roof sign, fire extinguisher etc)

Spot checks are also carried out on taxi depots. Taxi depots are not subject to Public Service Vehicle regulation in Northern Ireland at present, however anyone who knowingly employs the use of an unlicensed or uninsured taxi or driver to transport fare-paying passengers may be liable to prosecution.

Illegal taxis place passengers at unnecessary risk. If you have information which would assist in the detection of an illegal taxi operator you can contact the taxi enforcement team via the e mail addresses provided or alternatively speak to a taxi enforcement officer in confidence by telephoning 028 9025 4120

e-mail compliance at compliance.dvta@doeni.gov.uk

e-mail enforcement at enforcement.dvta@doeni.gov.uk