The main differences between Hackney Carriage (Taxis) and Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs) come down to how they're booked, how they operate, and where they can pick up passengers. Here's a clear breakdown: 

Hackney Carriage (Taxi) 

Also known as: Public Hire / Black Cab / Taxi 

 Key Features: 

  • Can be hailed on the street or picked up from a taxi rank without a booking.
  • The vehicle will be white in colour.
  • Uses a meter to calculate the fare (within the licensing area).
  • Must be licensed by the local authority, including both the vehicle and the driver.
  • Can operate anywhere within the licensing area without pre-booking. 

 Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) 

Also known as: Minicab / Pre-booked vehicle 

Key Features: 

  • Cannot be hailed on the street or use taxi ranks.
  • Must be pre-booked in advance through a licensed private hire operator.
  • Vehicle will NOT be white in colour.
  • Both the vehicle, driver, and operator must be licensed by the same local authority.
  • Illegal to pick up passengers without a booking — this is called "plying for hire" and is a serious offence. 

Summary Table 

Feature 

Hackney Carriage    

 Private Hire Vehicle  

Can be hailed on the street 

✅ Yes 

❌ No 

Can use taxi ranks 

✅ Yes 

❌ No 

Must be pre-booked 

❌ No (optional) 

✅ Yes 

Vehicle white in colour 

✅ Yes 

❌ No  

Licensed by local authority 

✅ Yes 

✅ Yes 

Can operate without an operator 

✅ Yes 

❌ No 
Last updated: 07 November 2025