Highland PHV drivers could face knowledge tests

Private hire car drivers in the Highlands of Scotland could be forced to take a knowledge test after complaints that some newly licensed drivers could not navigate simple trips.

Hackney taxi drivers are already subject to knowledge tests in the region, but some councillors believe private hire drivers should have to take the same tests. Highland councillors have agreed to prepare a consultation on local knowledge tests for private hire drivers.

Gavin Johnston, owner of Inverness Taxis, said private hire drivers’ local knowledge should be better. He said some new drivers did not know “simple” destinations around Inverness such as Raigmore Hospital or the airport.

“We’ve seen a lot of people relocating here to become a private hire driver in the past few years. I would like to see the drivers coming to the area to be a bit more equipped to do the job. The driver needs to have basic knowledge of major areas.”

The requirement for private hire drivers to undertake a knowledge test is up to individual local authorities. Highland Council, Dundee and West Lothian do not require one, whereas Aberdeen, Perth and Kinross and Angus do.