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New taxi drivers in Durham will now have to undergo an assessment by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) before they are granted a licence to drive a taxi.
The assessment, set at a higher standard than the normal driving test for learner drivers, will involve DSA examiners assessing the taxi drivers ability in a ‘real’ driving environment, including special taxi manoeuvres.
The DSA’s Chief Operating Officer, Brian Gilhooley, said: “We are delighted that Durham County Council has decided to introduce this assessment as driving a taxi carries a great deal of responsibility.”
Successful taxi drivers will receive a certificate of competence which shows they can drive and carry passengers in safety and comfort.
The taxi tests are being carried out at Bishop Auckland, Darlington, Longbenton and Middlesbrough driving test centres.
Over 120 councils throughout the UK have already agreed to undertake taxi driver assessment.
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