Highland Private Hire Drivers May Face Knowledge Tests Like Taxi Drivers

Taxi drivers already take knowledge tests. Maybe private hire drivers should too. Highland car drivers might need local knowledge. This idea came up at a council meeting. Some new drivers struggled with basic routes, raising concerns. Other areas in Scotland already test these drivers.

Private hire cars differ from taxis; people must book them in advance. You cannot hail them on the street. Councillors want to hear public opinions on the matter. They want the public to weigh in. Should private hire drivers pass the test?

Gavin Johnston, who owns Inverness Taxis, wants better knowledge from private hire drivers. His company handles many passengers. They receive the most complaints about this. More people now drive private hire cars here because they can work where they want.

Johnston thinks private hire drivers need better preparation. Some lack knowledge of key places, such as Raigmore Hospital or the airport. They get pre-booked jobs. But things can change during a ride, and someone might get sick. The driver then needs basic knowledge.

Local councils decide about knowledge tests. Some areas do not need the tests; Dundee and West Lothian are examples. Other areas require the test, such as Aberdeen, Perth, and Angus.

Highland councillors want public input. They will prepare a consultation so people can share their opinions. Later, councillors will vote on it. The vote will decide if the test is required.