Posted on the 19th February 2026 in PHTM News

SOUTH AYRSHIRE MOVES TO TIGHTEN TAXI LICENSING RULES

South Ayrshire taxi and private hire drivers are facing a potential shake-up of their licensing rules as the local council prepares to launch a major policy review.

A report presented to the Cabinet on February 17 has called for a formal consultation to update guidelines that have governed the trade since 1996.

Council officers argue that a broader review is now necessary to "bring the policy in line with updated Scottish Government guidance and modern practice."

One of the most significant proposals involves toughening health requirements. While drivers currently only need to meet standard DVLA rules, the council is considering a shift to the "Group 2" medical standard—the same rigorous testing used for bus and lorry drivers. This change would reflect the reality that taxi drivers "spend long periods behind the wheel."

Security and background transparency are also high on the agenda. While Police Scotland handles local background checks, they cannot track foreign convictions. Consequently, the council may soon require any driver who has lived abroad for six months or more to provide criminal record checks from those countries.

Additionally, the review will look at establishing formal rules for CCTV inside vehicles, as officers currently have to handle requests from drivers wanting to install cameras on a "case-by-case basis."

The consultation will also explore "greener" incentives, such as allowing electric and hybrid vehicles to stay on the road longer than petrol or diesel models to offset their higher costs.

Drivers will also get the chance to voice their opinions on mandatory equipment, including whether requirements to carry first aid kits and fire extinguishers "should be reconsidered."

approved, the consultation period is set to begin on February 28, 2026.


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