Some people want to work as a taxi driver, but they need to know if they meet the basic requirements of the profession. Therefore, those who cannot be taxi drivers must have the necessary documentation or meet the conditions imposed by the city hall.

In this sense, a recurring debate, which has already passed through the taxi council, is about the relationship between taxi drivers and the public sector. After all, is it possible to be a civil servant and a taxi driver simultaneously? In this article, we will discuss this and other issues; read on!

What are the requirements to be a taxi driver?

Those who cannot be taxi drivers are those who need to meet the legal requirements to be able to carry out the role. In other words, they cannot meet basic prerequisites like age. After all, minors cannot drive, for example, which makes them able to be taxi drivers once they reach the required age.

In addition, however, other fundamental requirements are not limited to the age factor alone. There is a need to have basic documents, such as a driver's license and a taxi license.

Another requirement, of course, is to have a vehicle, either your driver or in partnership with another person who already owns a taxi. Generally, the most common thing is finding drivers who work for taxi companies.

It is worth noting, however, that each municipality may have different requirements. Therefore, being a taxi driver in Manchester or being a taxi driver elsewhere does not mean that all required documentation will be the same. Therefore, always check with the city hall before going back.

Can I be a taxi driver and have another job?

Yes, a taxi driver can have another job. As a taxi driver, there is usually a flexible schedule and being able to choose when and how long they want to work. This allows you to supplement your income at other jobs or personal ventures.

However, it is important to remember that driving a taxi requires much attention and responsibility. Thus, it is important that the taxi driver is rested and alert during work to ensure the safety of passengers.

Also, in some cities or countries, regulations may restrict how long a taxi driver can work per day or week, so it's important to check your local rules before taking on another job or activity.

In addition, a debate sometimes appears about taxi drivers and public service. Drivers need government requirements and regulations, but would that make them public servants? If so, they could not accumulate functions within public services.

However, a taxi driver cannot be considered a public official, as he is not hired or paid by the government or any public body. Typically, taxi drivers work as self-employed professionals or are employed by private taxi companies.

They provide a public transport service but are not considered public servants. However, there are some cities or countries where taxi drivers are licensed or regulated by the government, and they may need to follow some specific rules to operate their taxis legally.

Still, this does not mean they are considered public servants. So what is considered is that the taxi driver does public service work, although not as a public employee.

How much does a taxi driver earn?

Earnings for those who work as taxi drivers vary according to location and other determinants. Among the factors, for example, are the region in which you work, the demand for taxi services in the area, the price of fares, competition from other drivers and the number of hours worked daily. For example taxi from Oldham to Manchester airport cost 120 GBP approximately and fuel and other services charges are up to 100 GBP so here 20 GBP is the net saving.


According to information released by the Manchester Taxi Drivers Union in March 2023, the average daily income of a taxi driver in United Kingdom is approximately 1000 to 1500 GBP.

It is worth noting that this value only represents the monthly gross revenue, that is, the taxi driver's earnings from rides. It is also important to consider fuel expenses, vehicle maintenance, taxes and other costs related to taxi operation.

In other words, the daily net income of a taxi driver in Manchester can be, on average, 50 to 80 GBP. Remember, however, that this depends on many factors and can vary greatly.