While making the most of London’s thriving nightlife, it is important you think about your options for getting home in advance. Transport for London (TfL) is working with Metropolitan, City of London and British Transport Police to help you to stay safe at night.
Here is some helpful information for you to consider when it comes to planning your journey safely:
Black Taxis
A licensed black taxi with its orange light on can be hailed off the street or from one of more than 600 ranks across the Capital. They can also be booked by phone or app.
Every taxi has a card machine so, if you don’t have cash, you will be able to pay using credit, debit or mobile payment.
Minicabs
Minicabs cannot be hailed off the street. They must be booked with a licensed minicab company over the phone, online, using an app or at a minicab office. If it is not booked, it is not safe.
You must receive a booking confirmation which will include the vehicle registration mark, first name of the driver, the driver's private hire license number, and where possible a photo of the driver.
If the driver and vehicle do not match your booking confirmation, do not get in the vehicle- it isn’t safe.
A record will be kept of your journey, your driver and the vehicle they used. The driver can be traced in case of any problems.
Public Transport Options
TfL provides a number of night-time travel services. Download TfL Go to plan your journey home using public transport.
Reporting
If you experience any behaviour of a sexual nature from a minicab or taxi driver, including comments of a sexual nature or any other behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable, please report it online at www.met.police.uk
If it’s an emergency call 999.
You can also report any behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable even if you think it’s not necessarily a crime. Call TfL on 0343 222 4000 (Monday to Friday 09:00-17:00) or contact them online.
TfL enforcement officers and the police are working to improve the safety of travelling by taxi & minicab. Find out more on our website: https://tfl.gov.uk/campaign/safer-travel