Transport for London (TfL) is failing private hire vehicle
drivers, with efforts to tackle a backlog of expired licence
applications in the capital stalling out.
In June, the London Assembly Transport Committee
wrote to TfL to demand regular updates on efforts to address the
backlog – after assurances the issue would be resolved by
September.[1]
Despite good initial progress and assurances that numbers were
reaching a “steady state”, the number of drivers with expired
licences has started to gradually climb in recent
weeks.[2]
Members of the Committee have also heard concerns from some
drivers with expired licences that their applications have been
cancelled without explanation.
Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee, AM, said:
“The Transport Committee asked for regular
updates from TfL because it needed to be sure they were getting a
grip on this issue. More than two months on, it is clear that
hasn't happened.
“Despite repeated requests for clarity on why the numbers of
expired licences are ticking up again, the Committee has not yet
had a good answer.
“TfL's use of temporary licences is a sticking plaster, not a
cure. Drivers' livelihoods and wellbeing are suffering because
TfL cannot get its act together – we think they deserve better.”
Notes for editors:
- London Assembly: London Assembly Transport
Committee writes to TfL for action on private hire licence
backlog | London City Hall
-
Private hire licence backlog
monitor 2025 | London City Hall
- Read the letter attached
