Frequently asked questions
What is the Vehicle Specification for the Clean Air Zone?
Please see the following link for our up-to-date vehicle specification: Vehicle Specification Document (pdf).
Will I get charged for entering the Clean Air Zone?
Our Breathe Better Bradford website has the latest information regarding the Clean Air Zone and what our charging policies are. You can register your email address to receive updates on the Clean Air Zone implementation.
What is a tax conditionality check code?
Please see our tax conditionality web page for more information.
What is the NR3 register?
The Local Government Association (LGA) has launched a National Register of Taxi and Private Hire Licence Revocations and Refusals (NR3).
As the local licensing authority, we're responsible for adding basic details about drivers when we refuse an application or revoke their licence.
When we receive an application for a licence, we check the applicant's details on the register to confirm that there is no record of them having been revoked or refused elsewhere.
The details contained on the register are limited to information that will help to identify an individual to a certain degree of accuracy. They will not give a reason why actions were taken - we have to follow up on any searches that come back with a match.
Data protection and privacy
We use the database to ensure the fitness and propriety of licence holders as part of the application process. We do this following the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and human rights law.
We might also use the information provided by applicants to prevent or detect crime, to protect public funds, or in other ways as permitted by law. This can include passing information to certain third parties.
We are registered with the National Anti-Fraud Network (NAFN), which the LGA commissioned to develop and host the register.
We are transferring all of the existing, relevant data that we hold into the database. According to the NAFN retention policy, it will be held for 25 years.
For further information please see the NR3 policy (PDF).
How can I tell which Hackney Carriage or Private Hire Drivers and Vehicles are currently licensed by Bradford Council?
Information regarding the drivers and vehicles that are currently licensed is available on the Northern Data Hub, which can be accessed via the 2 links below:
- Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle licences issued in Bradford
- Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Driver licences issued in Bradford
How can I find a wheelchair accessible vehicle that is currently licensed by Bradford Council?
Information regarding wheelchair accessible vehicles can be found on the Northern Data Hub, which can be accessed via the link below.
The second table is a list of all wheelchair accessible vehicles that have been designated for the purposes of S.165 of the Equalities Act 2010.
When does the office at Shearbridge open for counter service?
We do not have a counter service that is open to the public. If you need to speak to a Licensing Officer please email us at taxi.testing@bradford.gov.uk with your plate or badge number, full name and address and a contact telephone number.
How can I tell the difference between a Hackney Carriage and a Private Hire vehicle?
- Hackney Carriages are white vehicles with green stripes and crests and a 'Taxi' sign on the roof.
- Private Hire vehicles are any colour, except white, and are also distinguishable by their windscreen visors and door stickers
Can I hail any cab I see?
- You can hail a Hackney Carriage who can ply for Hire, they can also wait on Taxi Ranks
- Private Hire cannot ply for hire or respond to being hailed – they must be pre-booked, also they cannot wait on Taxi Ranks
If when I'm looking for a cab I see a Private Hire vehicle dropping someone off, can I use it?
- No, that is considered 'Plying for hire' and is illegal
Is it true that using a Private Hire vehicle which hasn't been booked is uninsured for the journey?
- Yes, Private Hire vehicles are uninsured for any journey which hasn't been pre-booked
What is the cost of using a Hackney Carriage or Private Hire Vehicle?
- Hackney Carriage journey prices are paid according to the amount displayed on the taxi meter at the end of the journey (Council Controlled).
- Private Hire journey prices should be agreed when ringing the base to book the journey, or agreed with the driver before commencement.
- You can view a copy of the latest Hackney Carriage Fare Card (PDF).
Who employs the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire drivers?
- Hackney Carriage Drivers work for themselves, not for an Operator.
- Private Hire vehicles work for an Operator and must display windscreen visors and door stickers showing the name and telephone number of the firm.
Can Hackney Carriages and Private Hire Vehicles use Bus Lanes?
- Hackney Cabs can use lanes stating Bus/Taxi
- Private Hire Vehicles must not use Bus/Taxi Lanes
I received really good service who do I contact to let them know?
- We're always pleased to hear about good services from the drivers, please use our compliment or complaint form.
I am unhappy with the service I have received from a taxi or private hire driver. Who can I contact about this?
- It is always important to let the Private Hire Company know about any complaint you have. You should contact the Private Hire company and ask for them to deal with any issues. If they do not help you please let us know by using our compliment or complaint form.
Why won't the driver use his horn to let me know he's arrived?
- Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles must not use horns to let you know that they have arrived.
Who do I contact for more information?
If there's anything you're not sure of, please contact us for further help and information.