Table of Contents
1. You Must Have the Right Licence and Badge
2. Training, Safeguarding & Medical Checks Are Essential
3. Know Where Taxi Ranks Are and When Marshals Are Present
4. Keep an Eye on Licensing Timelines
5. Accessibility Rules for Black Cabs
Driving a taxi in Manchester is more than just a job it’s a lifeline for the city. From football fans heading to Old Trafford to travellers rushing to Manchester Airport, taxi drivers keep people moving every single day. But before you get behind the wheel, there are some important rules and tips you need to know. Here are five key things every Manchester taxi driver must understand to stay safe, legal, and successful on the road.
1. You Must Have the Right Licence and Badge
All taxi drivers in Manchester City Centre need to hold a valid licence from Manchester City Council.
- Public hire (hackney carriages): These are the black cabs that can pick people up from the street or taxi ranks.
- Private hire vehicles: These must be booked in advance (like Uber, Bolt, or local minicabs).
Whichever type you drive, you’ll need a badge issued by the council, which must always be on display. Driving without the proper licence could cost you your job and your livelihood.
Manchester Gov: About our taxis and private hire
2. Training, Safeguarding & Medical Checks Are Essential
It’s not just about knowing how to drive you must also meet important safety and health requirements.
- Enhanced DBS check (criminal record check).
- Medical check to make sure you’re fit to drive passengers.
- Safeguarding training to protect vulnerable passengers, especially children.
Manchester City Council requires all drivers to complete this before getting a badge.
Manchester Gov: Driver training and safeguarding
3. Know Where Taxi Ranks Are and When Marshals Are Present
Manchester has licensed taxi ranks across the city, especially in high-demand areas like Piccadilly Station, Deansgate, and near the Printworks. During busy evenings and weekends, taxi marshals are sometimes present to help with queues and keep things safe for both drivers and passengers.
Manchester Gov: Taxi ranks in the city centre or read our blog Where Are the Busiest Taxi Ranks in Manchester? A Driver’s Guide.
4. Keep an Eye on Licensing Timelines
Applying or renewing your licence? Don’t leave it too late. The council says that if your paperwork is correct and fees are paid, most applications are processed within two working days. This means if you plan ahead, you won’t risk being off the road without insurance or a licence.
Manchester Gov: Taxi licensing applications update
5. Accessibility Rules for Black Cabs
All hackney carriage (public hire) taxis in Manchester must be wheelchair accessible. This ensures that every passenger, regardless of disability, can travel safely. It’s not just a rule it’s about keeping Manchester inclusive for everyone.
Conclusion
From licences and medical checks to knowing your ranks and accessibility rules, these five points are essential for every Manchester City Centre taxi driver. Staying on top of them will keep you legal, safe, and earning money. At Acorn Insurance, our local branch representatives understand the unique challenges of driving in Manchester and we’re here to help you get the right taxi insurance so you can focus on your passengers. Get a quote online today or pop in to our Manchester Branch to speak to a friendly insurance agent, click here for more details Acorn Manchester Branch.