A Wolverhampton-licensed private hire vehicle has sparked concern after being spotted doubling up as a learner driver car in Manchester – raising questions about vehicle use regulations and passenger safety.
The red Toyota Yaris, bearing a Wolverhampton private hire plate and a roof sign advertising driving lessons under the name “Aryan Driving School,” was seen parked near a residential street in Manchester.
🚗 One Car, Two Roles?
While Wolverhampton City Council is known for issuing a high number of private hire licences, often to drivers operating far outside the city, this sighting adds another layer to the ongoing debate. The dual use of a licensed private hire vehicle as a learner driver car may not breach any specific licensing laws, but it raises serious questions:
- Are passengers aware they could be travelling in a car also used for learner lessons?
- Does the vehicle meet appropriate safety standards for such dual use?
- Is it insured correctly for both private hire and instruction?
Under standard private hire regulations, vehicles must meet strict safety, cleanliness, and insurance standards. Meanwhile, driving schools also require dual-control vehicles and appropriate insurance to protect both learner and instructor.
📍 The Manchester Sightings
The vehicle, registered in late 2016 (as shown by its number plate starting “ME66”), was clearly marked as both a private hire and learner car. It’s unclear whether it was actively carrying out bookings or driving lessons at the time of the photo. However, it was parked near a school zone with multiple taxis in the area, suggesting a high-traffic location for both trade types.
⚖️ Industry Reaction
Local Manchester drivers have expressed frustration over the blurring of operational boundaries. One commented anonymously, “This is exactly why we’re calling for tighter local enforcement. Wolverhampton plates are being used all over the UK, and now we’ve got PHVs moonlighting as driving school cars. It’s a joke.” “My wife can’t drive my car because she isn’t a licensed driver, yet you can teach people how to drive in a Wolverhampton one?”
📢 Calls for Stricter Oversight
With the rise of out-of-area plated vehicles operating in cities like Manchester, combined with increasingly flexible vehicle leasing arrangements, more cases like this could appear. The issue may prompt regulators to review guidelines on dual-purpose vehicles and ensure clearer labelling and operational boundaries are enforced.
Thanks for visiting DM News!
If you’ve got a question, story, or anything you’d like to say, head over to DriverMatty.com — I’d love to hear from you! And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out my other websites and social media channels.
