Posted on the 9th July 2026 in PHTM News
DUNDEE TAXI SAFETY FEARS SPARK CALLS FOR CRACKDOWN ON UNLICENSED DRIVERS
Concerns have been raised that people are illegally operating taxis in Dundee without proper licences, sparking serious safety fears within the local trade.
Both Dundee City Council and the taxi drivers' union, Unite, have acknowledged the issue, which has prompted calls for tougher enforcement and identity checks.
The alarm was raised by legitimate cabbies who warn that issue compromises passenger safety and financially undercuts lawful drivers.
One experienced Dundee driver, speaking anonymously, revealed that a rumoured “family badge” system has emerged, where relatives or associates reportedly drive licensed vehicles without holding their own licences.
The driver emphasised the severe risks involved, particularly for passengers travelling late at night. "It’s really dangerous," he told The Courier. "You’re often carrying vulnerable people late at night, particularly young women who have been drinking. Getting passengers home safely is a huge responsibility and I take that very seriously."
Legitimate drivers are also feeling the financial pinch of unfair competition. "It costs a fortune to do this job properly with the right insurance, the right licence and a decent vehicle," the driver added. "If people are cutting corners, they’re undercutting those of us who follow the rules."
He stated he would welcome random five-minute police stops to verify credentials and weed out illegal drivers.
The taxi union Unite has stepped in to push for stricter security measures. Chris Elder, representing the union, confirmed that members have held talks with council licensing officers and are seeking meetings with Police Scotland.
Elder questioned how drivers unfamiliar with Dundee’s road network were managing to operate taxis, emphasising that "for the safety of the public and the safety of drivers, we need a better way of checking that the person getting the job is the genuine licensed driver."
To combat the issue, the union is proposing advanced solutions, including face-recognition technology linked to in-car dispatch devices so only licensed drivers can accept fares.
They are also calling for clearer "on-service" ID cards to be prominently displayed inside vehicles. Elder noted that legitimate drivers do not object to badge checks, but want them "carried out in a way that actually catches anyone operating illegally."
Dundee City Council confirmed it is actively monitoring the situation. A council spokesman stated that the local authority is aware of complaints regarding individuals allegedly driving without the appropriate licence.
The council confirmed that staff and Police Scotland possess the powers to investigate these claims, adding that regular checks are being conducted on taxi ranks during both day and night shifts to ensure full compliance.
Authorities have urged anyone with specific concerns to contact the council or the police immediately.
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