Special Consular Services
Using Taxis and Minicabs in London
Taxis or "Black Cabs" (the ones with the light above the windshield) and their drivers undergo stringent tests, and are the only type of cab that can be legally hailed on the street.
Minicabs, on the other hand, cannot ply for hire and have to be called by you. Any vehicle which is not a Black Cab that is touting for business is probably not licensed and should not be used.
You can access 7,000 licensed "Black Cabs" using just one telephone number - 0871 871 8710. This taxi booking service combines all six of London's radio taxi circuits, allowing you to telephone 24 hours a day if you need to "hail a cab."
Alternatively, to find a licensed minicab, text "HOME" to 60835 on your mobile phone. This will get you the telephone number to two licensed minicab companies in the area. If you know in advance what time you will be leaving for home, you can pre-book your return journey.
Taxi/Minicab Safety Tips
- Check for the official yellow sticker in the front and rear of the screens as proof that it is a licensed cab.
- Make sure that the minicab you ordered is the one that turns up. Ask the dispatcher for the name of the driver and the type of vehicle he/she will be driving. If it can't be given at the time, ask the dispatcher his/her name so that you can ask the driver.
- Try to travel with a friend.
- Always sit in the back of the cab with your cell phone switched on. Limit your conversation to general topics, and not specifics about you.
- Always trust your instincts. If you are not happy, ask the driver to drop you off, preferably in a busy area. If the driver refuses, call 999 for the police.
The "Safe Travel at Night" partnership among the Metropolitan Police, Transport for London, and the Mayor of London maintains a website with additional information at http://www.cabwise.com .
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Taxis and Minicabs 