How often does a taxi need an MOT?

How often does a taxi need an MOT?

By the nature of the profession, a taxi will require a more rigorous annual safety check than a standard vehicle.

Any vehicle which is used to transport passengers is regarded as a public service vehicle (PSV). Those vehicles which can legally accommodate up to eight passengers, not including the driver, are classed as a taxi.

Vehicles which can seat more than eight passengers are buses subject to different restrictions.

Only a taxi which has passed a PSV is legally entitled to drive on UK roads. The check is designed to ensure vehicles are roadworthy to protect the passengers onboard and other UK drivers.

A taxi driver will need to apply for a PSV at least six weeks before their taxi license is needed to comply with the regulations. The PSV forms an essential part of the licensing process and a license will not be granted without it.

The PSV inspection is similar to an MOT but more thorough. The vehicle will be checked to ensure there is a maximum of eight passenger seats, that a working fire extinguisher is mounted and ready for use, a spare wheel is available as well as the tools to perform the changeover, a roof sign with a minimum width of 750mm and maximum height of 250mm, a permanent roof and four doors either side of the vehicle.

The vehicle should also have PSV insurance and is subject to minimum length restrictions of 3.96m and height of no more than 435mm. The step height should also be no more than 435mm.

In addition to structural characteristics, the test will examine the axel weight of the taxi, the tyre load capacity and the seating plan.

Changes to PSV test regulations in 2010 means that left-hand drive stretched limousines can now be licensed as private hire taxis in the UK as long as the maximum seating capacity is eight passengers in addition to the driver.

To book in for a PSV test, you will need to complete a PV3 application form and a Supplementary PV3 and include the necessary fee.

Where’s there an approved taxi PSV test centre?

We are one of the Government’s approved taxi PSV test centres and can provide taxi drivers with the necessary forms to complete. You can also access the forms and more information about test procedures by clicking here.

If your vehicle successfully passes a PSV inspection, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will issue a Vehicle Inspection Notice as confirmation that the vehicle has passed its safety tests.

This information will then be forwarded to the relevant department to process the license application and dispatch the taxi plates to the licensee.