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Private Hire Drivers
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Why Edinburgh Needs to Cap Private Hire Driver Licences
As a working private hire (PH) driver in Edinburgh, I’m urging the council and relevant authorities to seriously consider capping the number of private hire licences issued in the city. The current oversupply of drivers is creating an unsustainable situation where it’s becoming nearly impossible to make a decent living. Too many drivers chasing too few jobs means longer waiting times between fares, higher fuel costs per job, and increased competition that pushes down earnings to below minimum wage for many of us.
We’re not asking for special treatment—we’re asking for fairness, sustainability, and recognition of our role in the broader transport ecosystem. Private hire drivers are just as much a part of the city’s taxi trade as black cab drivers. We complement black cabs, not compete with them. While black cabs tend to operate from ranks or respond to street hails, PH drivers fill in the gaps—handling pre-booked jobs, app-based bookings, and providing essential transport during times or in areas where black cabs are less present. We work together to ensure Edinburgh keeps moving.
But the current free-for-all with licence approvals is hurting everyone—drivers, customers, and the reputation of the trade. Oversaturation leads to burnout, rising complaints, and declining standards. Capping the number of PH licences would restore balance, improve working conditions, and ensure that those who remain in the trade can earn a fair income while maintaining a high level of service.
A cap isn’t a restriction—it’s a necessary measure to protect livelihoods and ensure the long-term viability of the industry. Let’s work together to create a taxi and private hire service in Edinburgh that is fair, professional, and sustainable—for drivers and passengers alike.
Jack supported: Cap Number of Private Hire Vehicles in Edinburgh so everyone can make a livingThe current situation has become unsustainable. The number of licensed private hire drivers has grown significantly, leading to an oversupply in the market. As a result: Drivers are struggling to earn a reasonable income, with too few jobs available per driver.
Companies are exploiting this oversupply by offering lower fares, which further reduces drivers’ earnings and undermines service quality.
The excessive competition is creating stress and financial hardship among professional drivers who rely on this work to support their families.
To maintain a fair, balanced, and sustainable industry, I urge the council to introduce a cap on new private hire licences, at least temporarily,while reviewing the long term impact on local drivers and services.
Nabin supported: Cap Number of Private Hire Vehicles in Edinburgh so everyone can make a livingMy fiancee and I are both Uber drivers, we agree that the trip radar is very dangerous while I'm driving!! I've missed turns because I'll get a bid right in the middle of a trip I am already on!!! It's also not right that we have to pick the trips so quickly that's a distraction within itself!!! It's time to do something about this and it's time to start paying us drivers the money we deserve!!!!!
Leigh supported: App Drivers and Couriers Union is calling for action to stop Uber's "Trip Radar" feature. You’re not alone — a community of supporters is ready to back you.
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