Two types of licensed car
Hackney carriages, usually called taxis, can be hailed in the street or picked up at a taxi rank. Private hire vehicles, such as minicabs, must be booked in advance through a licensed operator. A private hire car that picks you up without a booking is not insured for that journey.
Who licenses them
In Norfolk, the district councils license taxi and private hire drivers, vehicles and operators. Drivers must pass checks, including an enhanced DBS check, before they are licensed. Drivers carry a badge, and vehicles display a licence plate. Note the plate number for your journey.
Fares
Councils set the maximum fares for taxis in their area, and the meter must use them for journeys within the area. Private hire fares are not set by the council, so agree the price, or how it will be worked out, when you book.
Wheelchair users and assistance dogs
Taxi and private hire drivers must carry assistance dogs at no extra charge, unless they have a medical exemption certificate from the council. Drivers of wheelchair accessible vehicles on a council's designated list must help wheelchair users and must not charge them extra.
Minibuses and coaches
Vehicles carrying nine or more passengers for hire, such as minibuses and coaches, are usually run under a public service vehicle (PSV) operator licence from the Traffic Commissioner, not a taxi licence. Ask the operator about their licence.
Lost property and complaints
Contact the operator or taxi company first, with the plate or badge number if you have it. If you have a complaint about a licensed driver, vehicle or operator, contact the licensing team at the council that issued the licence.