Travelling by taxi or private hire vehicle as a wheelchair user
In-depth guide on using taxis and private hire vehicles as a wheelchair user, including legal rights, accessibility and real-life experiences.
Travelling by taxi or private hire vehicle is one of the most convenient ways for you as a wheelchair user to travel.
Taxis are vehicles you hail in the street or access from a taxi rank. Private hire vehicles are those that you pre-book, either on the phone, or online, or through an app like Uber or Bolt.
Here, we’ll offer some advice for travelling by taxi or private hire vehicle with your wheelchair. We’ll explain what your rights are and any restrictions that might apply. We’ve also included some expert tips from our Youth Board.
In this guide we’ll cover:
- The rules for wheelchair users travelling by taxis and private hire vehicles
- Accessibility in taxis and private hire vehicles
- What support you can expect when you travel by taxi and private hire vehicle
What you need to know about travelling by taxi or private hire vehicle as a wheelchair user
Many licensed taxis in larger cities have to be wheelchair accessible. Most cab companies can provide wheelchair accessible vehicles if you ask for it.
Licensed operators (those with a badge displayed from the local council) must follow the rules. These include ensuring that wheelchair users receive help without being charged extra.
If you’re booking a wheelchair accessible vehicle, most cab companies will ask you what assistance you need.
Some drivers may be exempt from providing mobility assistance, in which case they’ll have an exemption notice. This doesn’t mean they can’t transport disabled passengers. If you can get in and out of the vehicle and stow away any luggage without their support then they can still drive you.
If you do need support it’s important to mention this when you book to ensure the right driver (and vehicle) is available.
If you have an assistance dog, it is illegal for the taxi or private hire vehicle company to refuse entry to your dog. Sadly, many Guide Dog handlers tell us they have been turned away for this. We hope your experience is different.
Accessibility in taxis or private hire vehicles
If you’re booking a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), it will likely feature a ramp or lift and equipment to secure your chair with restraints. The driver should be trained in mobility assistance and help you.
Local authorities in the UK all have a list of accessible licensed taxis in their area. You can check your local authority website for details. There are also specialist apps and services for wheelchair accessible taxis, including Uber WAV.
You don’t have to take an accessible vehicle as a wheelchair user. If your chair can be folded and stored and you’re able to transfer from chair to seat, you can get into any car or taxi.
By law, drivers can’t refuse to take you and must provide assistance – and they’re not allowed to charge you extra!
Every London black cab should be accessible: You should be able to travel safely in any black cab, with all travelling with tie down straps.
Whizz Kidz Youth Board
Check what’s accessible: When using ride-share services or mini-cabs check access settings in their apps or on their websites. If you can’t find the information you need, check the type of taxi before booking or confirming your journey.
Whizz Kidz Youth Board
Know your rights: You can check out our guide to travel rights. It’s especially important to know your rights if you have an assistance dogs.
Whizz Kidz Youth Board
Book in advance where possible: If you need a wheelchair accessible taxi it’s always to book as far in advance as possible. Always double check in advance, especially if you’re travelling somewhere important like the airport.
Whizz Kidz Youth Board
Always travel safely: You may only be going on a short journey, but always ensure restraints are used on you and your chair where appropriate.
Whizz Kidz Youth Board
Round up
Travelling by taxi and on a private hire vehicle should be simple and stress-free, but we know that’s not always the case.
The advice here should help you plan and prepare for your trips. Knowing your rights can ensure you’re treated fairly and in line with the law.
- Wheelchair accessible taxis and private hire vehicles are available in most places
- Your local authority will have a list of all the licensed wheelchair accessible taxis in your area
- Taxi drivers can’t refuse to transport wheelchair users and they’re not allowed to charge you extra
- You can also take a standard taxi if you can transfer from chair to seat and your wheelchair can be folded and stored
