Consultation on ‘Knowledge Test’ for Bracknell Taxi Drivers
We want your input.
Bracknell Forest Council is currently running a consultation on whether or not the geographical element of the ‘knowledge test’ should be retained as part of the application process for hackney carriage and private hire drivers.
During the licensing application process drivers are required to undertake various checks and assessments. The checks include a medical assessments and a Disclosure and Barring Service check. They also have to undertake specified training including safeguarding and disability awareness. Drivers also have to undertake a ‘knowledge test’. This test assesses their knowledge of the Highway Code, the carriage of disabled passengers, driver and vehicle law and the conditions attached to the type of licence they are applying for and a geographical knowledge of locations within the Borough test or ow to get from A–B via the shortest possible available route.
It is this final element of the test that we are seeking your views on. Depending on the type of licence they are applying for the drivers have to undertake a map based and oral test.
The Chairman of the Licensing and Safety Committee Councillor Guy Gillbe commented that “It is evident from discussion in the local media that some members of the trade feel that the onset of satellite navigation means that this part of the test is no longer needed. Other members of the trade have stated that it should be retained to ensure they continue to deliver a professional service with local knowledge being a point of difference to the service that they offer. We therefore would like to hear the views of the trade, their customers and other interested parties before we agree a way forward on this matter.”
The consultation will run from 7th July to 28th July and can be found below:
https://consult.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/kse/event/37555/form/37555
