Wheelchair accessible taxis and private hire

How taxi licensing works, your rights as a wheelchair user or assistance dog owner, and what to confirm before you book.

Applies to: UK-wide. Last reviewed 1 August 2026. This is information, not legal advice; rules can differ by council and operator.

Taxis and private hire are not the same

Hackney carriages (taxis) can be hailed on the street or picked up at a rank. A higher proportion are wheelchair accessible in many areas.
Private hire vehicles must be booked through an operator and cannot be hailed.
Licensing is done by the local council, so vehicle standards and the number of wheelchair accessible vehicles vary a lot between areas.

Drivers of designated wheelchair accessible vehicles must carry wheelchair users, provide mobility assistance and must not charge extra. Refusing is a criminal offence unless the driver holds a medical exemption certificate, which must be displayed.
Drivers must carry assistance dogs at no extra charge, again unless they hold a displayed exemption certificate.
Councils must keep and publish a list of designated wheelchair accessible vehicles licensed in their area.
If a driver refuses you, note the vehicle's licence plate number, the time and location, and report it to the licensing council.

Is the vehicle a designated wheelchair accessible vehicle, and does it use a ramp or a lift?
Can I stay in my wheelchair, and will it be secured with a four-point restraint?
What are the internal height, door width and maximum ramp weight? Compare against your chair.
Is the vehicle suitable for a powered wheelchair or a mobility scooter, and can it take the weight?
How much notice do you need for a wheelchair accessible vehicle, and is one available at the time I need?
Will my companion or personal assistant travel with me, and is there a charge?
How can I pay, and can I book by text or app if calling is difficult?

Search the accessible transport directory for wheelchair accessible taxis and private hire and other services in your area.

Rail Passenger Assist
Free assistance at stations and on trains across Great Britain and Northern Ireland, including help boarding, ramps, and someone to meet you.
Accessible buses and coaches
Your rights on local buses and long-distance coaches, wheelchair spaces, priority seating, audio-visual announcements and free travel passes.
Airport and airline assistance
Free special assistance at UK airports, how to book it, and how wheelchairs and mobility equipment are handled.
Ferries and water transport
Assistance on ferries to the islands, Northern Ireland and Europe, including notice periods and what to check about the vessel and terminal.