South Ayshire taxi drivers could face new rules on medical checks and criminal record screenings

Taxi and private hire drivers across South Ayrshire could face new rules on medical checks, overseas criminal record screening and in-vehicle CCTV under proposals set to go out for consultation.

A report to South Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet on February 17 seeks approval to formally consult the local taxi and private hire trade on potential changes to the authority’s long-standing licensing policy.

The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 governs taxi and private hire licensing, with South Ayrshire operating under a policy originally adopted in 1996 and updated periodically since then.

The most recent amendment, agreed in September 2024, extended the age limit for vehicles before they must be retired from service.

Now, council officers say it is time for a broader review to bring the policy in line with updated Scottish Government guidance and modern practice.

Four main areas are being proposed for discussion with the taxi trade.

Medical examinations

Currently, applicants for a taxi or private hire licence are not required to undertake a medical examination beyond meeting standard DVLA requirements.

Officers are proposing consultation on whether drivers should meet the more stringent “Group 2” medical standard — typically applied to lorry and bus drivers — reflecting the fact taxi drivers spend long periods behind the wheel.

Overseas criminal record checks

While Police Scotland carries out background checks on applicants, it cannot verify foreign convictions. The council is considering whether drivers who have lived abroad for six months or more should be required to provide criminal record checks from those countries.

CCTV in vehicles

The current policy contains no specific provisions governing CCTV. Licensing officers say they receive enquiries from drivers wishing to install cameras, but guidance is dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

Electric and hybrid vehicle age limits

The policy does not currently distinguish between electric or hybrid vehicles and petrol or diesel models when it comes to maximum operating age.

Councillors have previously asked whether greener vehicles should be allowed to operate for longer, given lower emissions and higher purchase costs.

The Taxi Forum – which brings together licensing officers and trade representatives – has already been made aware of the proposed review.

The report suggests that trade would welcome the opportunity to comment, including on existing requirements such as carrying a first aid kit and fire extinguisher, which some drivers believe should be reconsidered.

If Cabinet agrees the report, consultation with the taxi and private hire trade will begin on February 28, 2026.