Taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers are being urged to maintain clean vehicles, especially during the winter months when keeping them tidy can be more challenging. Failing to keep number plates or council-issued plates clean could lead to fines or enforcement action.
PC Patrick Quinton, Avon and Somerset Police’s dedicated ‘Taxi Cop’, has emphasised that keeping vehicle identification visible isn’t just about appearance—it’s a legal obligation.
According to the Road Vehicles (Display of Registration Marks) Regulations 2001, all vehicles, including taxis and private hire vehicles, must have clean and clearly readable number plates at all times. Plates must be free from dirt, mud, or any other obstructions that could hinder visibility. Non-compliance could result in a fixed penalty fine of £100.
In addition to number plates, council plates—which identify licensed taxis and private hire vehicles—must also remain visible to passengers, pedestrians, and enforcement officers. Obscured or unreadable council plates could lead to breaches of local licensing regulations, potentially resulting in warnings or additional penalties.
Winter weather brings increased dirt and grime, making it even more important for drivers to regularly check and clean their vehicles. PC Quinton advises drivers to make inspecting their number plates part of their daily routine before starting work.
While the majority of drivers keep their vehicles in good condition, ensuring that plates are visible is a simple yet essential step to comply with legal requirements and avoid fines.
PC Quinton said: “During the winter, vehicles get dirty much faster, and it’s essential to clean your number and council plates more frequently. A fine of £100 for unreadable plates is avoidable, so it’s worth taking a moment to check.”
He added: “When I first started as your Taxi Cop, I was pleased to see that nearly all hackney carriage and private hire vehicles were well-maintained. It’s not a major issue, but with the winter weather, it’s a good time to remind drivers to pay extra attention.”
Source: Taxi Point
