Scotland’s private hire scene has erupted amid strong rumours that cross-border working for Uber drivers is being shut down. According to multiple Scottish drivers, changes are being quietly introduced that restrict them to working solely within their licensed area—particularly in Edinburgh & Glasgow. While these changes have yet to be officially confirmed by Uber or Scottish authorities, the reported experiences of drivers suggest something big is happening behind the scenes.
As it stands, Edinburgh-licensed drivers say they can no longer stay online in the Uber app once they leave the city. This means if they drop a passenger off outside Edinburgh—say in Livingston or Glasgow—they must drive all the way back into the city limits before they can go online again. No picking up return fares. No accepting jobs while out of area. Nothing until they’re back in Edinburgh.
If true, this marks a massive shift—and possibly the end of cross-border working in Scotland.
Could England Be Next?
Although there’s been no official move in England, these rumours are raising alarm among English drivers. The UK currently operates under the “triple-lock” system, which allows drivers to work anywhere in the country, provided the booking is made through an operator licensed in the same area as the driver and vehicle.
That system has long been controversial. Local councils argue they can’t regulate out-of-area drivers effectively, while passengers and drivers often find the rules unclear. If Scotland is testing new restrictions, many believe England could follow suit.
What About Wolverhampton-Plated Drivers?
Wolverhampton has become the UK’s licensing hotspot. Thousands of drivers from across the country—Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, even London—hold Wolverhampton badges due to its cheap, efficient application system.
But if England introduced a Scotland-style rule, these drivers would face chaos. Imagine dropping off in Manchester but being forced to return to Wolverhampton before accepting another fare. With Uber’s current rates, that would be a nightmare—more fuel, more miles, and no earnings during the return trip.
Drivers React With Frustration
Across the UK, Uber drivers are worried. Many are voicing frustration, pointing out that Uber’s fare structure doesn’t reflect the realities of such restrictions. Time spent driving back to your licensing area is unpaid—and would make many jobs financially unsustainable.
Others fear that these rules, if introduced, will hurt flexibility, reduce driver income, and increase disputes with local councils already stretched for enforcement resources.
What Happens Next?
While nothing is confirmed yet in Scotland, and no changes have been announced in England, the rumours are loud—and growing. If they turn out to be true, it could signal a major shift in how private hire driving works across the UK.
Drivers, councils, and operators alike are watching closely.
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