London PHV Driver’s Handbook comes with specific regulations and requirements that drivers must adhere to. Understanding these regulations is crucial for ensuring compliance and maintaining a successful career as a PHV driver in the city. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the 10 essential regulations every London PHV driver must know.
London PHV Driver’s Handbook: Licensing Requirements
To operate as a PHV driver in London, you must obtain a valid PHV driver’s licence. This process involves several steps:
- Application Process: You need to apply for a PHV driver’s licence through Transport for London (TfL). This includes filling out an application form, providing proof of identity, passing a medical examination, and completing a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a PHV driver’s licence in London.
- Knowledge Test: You are required to pass a knowledge test covering areas such as London geography, regulations, and customer service.
London PHV Driver’s Handbook: Vehicle Requirements
The vehicle you use as a PHV in London must meet certain standards:
- Age Limit: The vehicle should not be more than 10 years old from the date of its first registration, unless it is wheelchair accessible, in which case it can be up to 12 years old.
- Insurance: You must have valid hire or reward insurance that covers you for carrying passengers for hire and reward.
- MOT and Vehicle Inspections: Your vehicle must pass an annual MOT test and regular inspections to ensure it meets safety and emissions standards.
PHV Operator Requirements
As a PHV driver, you may work for a licensed PHV operator, and there are regulations governing these operators:
- Operator Licence: PHV operators must have a valid operator licence issued by TfL.
- Booking and Dispatch Systems: Operators must use an approved booking and dispatch system that records all journeys and passenger details.
- Compliance with Regulations: Operators must comply with all licensing regulations, including ensuring drivers and vehicles meet the required standards.
London PHV Driver’s Handbook: Vehicle Emissions Standards
London has strict emissions standards that PHV vehicles must meet:
- ULEZ and LEZ: Vehicles operating within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Low Emission Zone (LEZ) must meet specific emissions standards or pay a daily charge.
- Cleaner Vehicles: There are incentives for using cleaner vehicles, such as exemptions from congestion charges and reduced licensing fees.
Driver Conduct and Customer Service
PHV drivers in London must adhere to professional standards:
- Customer Service: You must provide a high standard of customer service, including being polite and helpful to passengers.
- Dress Code: There may be specific dress codes that operators require drivers to follow.
- Acceptance of Fares: You must not refuse to carry a passenger for a journey within the licensed area unless you have a valid reason.
London PHV Driver’s Handbook: Licensing Area and Limits
Your PHV driver’s licence allows you to operate within specific areas and under certain conditions:
- Licensed Area: Your licence specifies the areas where you are permitted to pick up passengers.
- Operating Hours: Some licences may restrict the hours during which you can operate.
Safety and Security
Ensuring the safety and security of passengers is paramount:
- CCTV: Some vehicles are required to have CCTV installed for passenger and driver safety.
- Safety Checks: You must conduct regular safety checks on your vehicle and report any defects promptly.
Payment Systems and Fare Structures
PHV drivers must follow regulations regarding payment systems and fare structures:
- Receipts: You are required to provide a receipt for every journey upon request.
- Fare Structure: Operators may have set fare structures that you must adhere to.
London PHV Driver’s Handbook: Reporting Incidents and Complaints
As a PHV driver, you must know how to report incidents and handle complaints:
- Incident Reporting: You must report any accidents or incidents to TfL and your operator promptly.
- Complaint Handling: You must have procedures in place for handling passenger complaints in a professional manner.
Renewal and Continuing Professional Development
Maintaining your PHV licence involves ongoing requirements:
- Licence Renewal: You must renew your PHV driver’s licence periodically, following the renewal process set out by TfL.
- CPD Requirements: There may be Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements that you need to fulfil to renew your licence.
Conclusion
Becoming a London PHV Driver’s Handbook requires a thorough understanding of the regulations and requirements outlined in this handbook. By complying with these regulations, you ensure the safety and satisfaction of your passengers and maintain a successful career as a PHV driver.
FAQs
1. How do I apply for a PHV driver’s licence in London?
To apply for a PHV driver’s licence in London, you need to complete an application form, pass a medical examination, and undergo a DBS check.
2. What are the vehicle age limits for London PHV Driver’s Handbook?
PHV vehicles in London must not be more than 10 years old from the date of their first registration, unless they are wheelchair accessible.
3. What is the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), and how does it affect PHV drivers?
The ULEZ is an area in London where vehicles must meet strict emissions standards or pay a daily charge. PHV drivers operating within the ULEZ must comply with these standards.
4. How often do I need to renew my PHV driver’s licence?
PHV driver’s licences in London need to be renewed periodically. Check with TfL for specific renewal requirements.
5. What should I do if I receive a passenger complaint?
Handle passenger complaints professionally and according to the procedures set out by your operator. Promptly address any issues raised by passengers.