At 1st Class Driver Training we are fully committed to getting you through your taxi/private hire test first time and how important a step this is to you in your new career. We have a strong reputation among examiners and taxi company owners for preparing candidates to be at the high standards required. Since the change in regulations that has meant potential taxi/private hire drivers must take and pass a Driving Standards Agency (DSA) assessment - we have been proud to be associated with and used by local companies through recommendations from Brighton and Hove City Council. To date we have helped more than 30 people from one Brighton-based taxi company pass their private hire test - with all but one passing first time.

On the initial appointment, our instructors will assess your driving in a range of road conditions and give you constructive feedback on how to adjust certain areas that may need addressing - over the years a qualified driver can pick up a range of bad habits that detract from his or her driving ability. Appointments can be conducted in one of our company cars, or if preferred, in your own vehicle, subject to an inspection.

The Taxi/Private Hire assessment

The assessment will last on average 40 minutes and to be successful you must accumulate no more than 9 recorded driving faults (10 or more or any serious or dangerous faults will mean an unsuccessful result)

The aims of the assessment are to evaluate the driving practices of a full licence holder, with a specific emphasis on confident, responsible and safe driving - remember that you will be representing a professional driving organisation (licensed by the City council) and many of your customers may be anxious passengers.

During the assessment you will be expected to:

• Read a registration plate from a distance of 20 metres - with the use of glasses or contact lenses if you wear them.
• Carry out two manoeuvres (one of which will be your own choice depending on road conditions) in a safe and controlled manner with good observation and consideration for other road users and pedestrians.
• Stop on the left side of the road on a number of occasions in a safe and convenient place, with specific emphasis on passenger safety.
• Demonstrate a good all round awareness of other road users, plan well ahead and anticipate the actions of others.
• Comply with the road signs and markings and show good judgement when overtaking, meeting and crossing the path of oncoming vehicles.
• Answer several questions on The Highway Code, identify some traffic signs, as well as general cabology (cab-related topics such as correct tyre pressures, your main responsibilities, licence requirements, lost property procedures, etc.)

The end of the taxi/private hire assessment

When you pass the practical assessment you will be offered a debrief of your drive, a copy of your assessment sheet, together with the pass certificate (form TPH10)
If you are unsuccessful you will be given the offer of a debrief, together with advice on which areas you need to address, as well as a copy of your assessment.
There is no limit at present on the number of times you can attempt the assessment.