Types of Taxi
There are two types of taxi in the UK.
“Hackney Carriages” or “Black and White” taxis (as they are called in Leeds) are the ones you can use without booking by holding out your hand as they drive by, or by getting into them as they are parked on the road in special taxi parking zones called “Taxi Ranks”. You can recognise a Hackney Carriage because they are always white with a black bonnet and boot at the front and back of the vehicle.
There are taxi ranks located on many of the main streets, including outside the train station. You can spot them usually by a sign showing you where to wait.
Private hire taxis are taxis you book in advance by phone or by an app on your phone. These are generally cheaper than Black and Whites.
To book a private hire taxi, you could use Gett or Uber or a local company which you could find on Google. You can book over the phone, and some companies have apps you can use. Private hire vehicles look like normal vehicles but they should have a sign on the side or windscreen telling you the name of the company and also a sign that shows it is licensed by Leeds City Council.
When you book a taxi or catch one in the city centre, you can request one for large numbers of passengers (up to 6 people) or for a wheelchair user.
Staying safe
Most taxi drivers are, of course, legal and safe.
However, to make sure you stay safe, you should never get into a vehicle unless it is a Hackney carriage or one you have booked in advance.
You should always check the driver has a badge, because this shows they are licensed. It is also a good idea to share a taxi with friends if you can and sit in the back seat if you are alone.
