This office is responsible for licensing the famous black cabs and other private hire vehicles. The difference between any ordinary taxi and private hire is that private hire trips must be pre-booked through a licensed operator. Private hire vehicles cannot ply for hire in the street, unlike the taxis. The aim of licensing private hire services or the aim of this office, is to improve safety standards. This is such that licensed vehicles are subject to regular checks by the Public Carriage Office.
The Public Carriage Office, after completing licensing private hire operators are also licensing drivers and other vehicles.
Traveling in a traditional taxi assures the customer of 'door to door' transportation all throughout London . Taxis can be hailed in the street or located on designated ranks, which are situated at prominent places, such as many mainline rail, underground and bus stations. A telephone booking service is also provided as well as a variety of additional aids for disabled customers. The fares charged are regulated, and taxi vehicles and drivers have minimum quality standards to meet. Such as for in stance, drivers must pass the world renowned 'Knowledge of London ' examinations.
