Career advice for Hackney Carriage/ Private Hire drivers

[Slopez]

Hi all, I'm looking for some tips/advice on getting into a career as a driver. I'm currently going through the application form which is picked up from a local council (medical is tomorrow) and wondering what the best way is to make the most out of my licence. I have spoken to an operator who is established for many years (drives some very luxurious cars) and has said he could line up a few jobs around my current job, this sounds all promising for me, but what is the best route to go down for people with this type of licence, hackney carriage or private? Obviously if I was to go down the private route ive got the hassle of being self employed, hackney carriage seems like the money is only there if I always do unsociable hours, could be wrong.

i would love to hear from any drivers out there in particular. Any help be great

Cheers!

[strain]

My brother done it for several months, over 3 different companies, he was private hire and he worked a fair bit to cover his franchise before he made any money.

One night his radio wasn't working at all but dispatch said it was fine it was just a quiet night, he made nothing but saw plenty cars around. He said the company had favourite drivers who they looked after.

I know 3 ex private hire drivers who are now in a similar, but different career path

[Slopez]

I see, thanks for that. I'm guessing its just about establishing yourself, if you know someone who can start you up (fortunately I do) and get your foot in the door then that helps massively. I probably won't leave my current job until I know its worth it.

What I really want to know is if anyone has made a living out of being a private hire driver? and if so how.

And i'm also just interested in hearing of any experiences people have of a private hire/ taxi driver.

[Countdown]

strain said:

My brother done it for several months, over 3 different companies, he was private hire and he worked a fair bit to cover his franchise before he made any money.

One night his radio wasn't working at all but dispatch said it was fine it was just a quiet night, he made nothing but saw plenty cars around. He said the company had favourite drivers who they looked after.

Cab firms will give the pick of any jobs to their own drivers (ie drivers who use the cab firms own vehicles and get paid a fixed amount per shift) rather than Owner Drivers (drivers who just rent a radio from the firm on a daily basis but use their own car/fuel/insurance).