Our ref: FOI-2489-1617

Thank you for your email received on 13 March 2017 asking about the English language requirement for private hire drivers and for the number of drivers and vehicles licensed with a Southampton postcode.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and our Information Access Policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require. I have answered your questions as you have asked them.

How many TFL drivers and cars are registered in Southampton?

133 London licensed private hire drivers are registered with a Southampton postcode. We currently have no private hire vehicles licensed with these postcodes. The data is correct as of 27 March.

Have they or do they have to take a topography test and if so where for?

All private hire drivers licensed in London are required to undertake a topographical skills assessment at a Transport for London (TfL) approved test centre. However, some exemptions may apply. For full details please visit our website: www.tfl.gov.uk/info-for/taxis-and-private-hire/licensing/topographical-assessment.

Do all drivers or only new drivers have to pass the English test and when will this commence?”

The requirement for private hire drivers to be able to communicate in English came into force on 14 October 2016 and applies to all applications (whether new applications or renewals) received by TfL on or after that date. Further information is available on our website: https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/taxis-and-private-hire/licensing/private-hire-driver-licence.

If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for some reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.

If you are not satisfied with this response please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

Graham Hurt

FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London