Everything You Need to Know
Helpful guides, resources and answers to common questions.
To give yourself the best chance of success, we strongly recommend that you take a driving lesson or assessment drive with an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) before booking your assessment.
You can also review these official resources to help you prepare:
For more preparation tips, see our Taxi Driver Support.
(GOV.UK)
(GOV.UK)
Q: Can I book by phone or in person?
No. All bookings must be made online through the BLT Driver Training website.
Q: How do I book my taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment?
Select your course from the website, click Book Now, and complete payment online. You’ll receive a booking confirmation email. An assessor will contact you within 2–3 working days to agree a date, time and location for your assessment.
Q: How do I book an eLearning course?
You can book and pay online. Once payment is complete, you’ll receive an email containing a link giving instant access to the course.
Q: How do I book a virtual course?
You can book and pay online. Once payment is complete, you’ll receive a booking confirmation email. Joining instructions are issued by email 24 hours prior to your course date.
Q: How do I pay?
All payments are made securely online using debit or credit card. We do not accept cash or over-the-phone payments.
Q: Will I get a receipt?
Yes – your payment confirmation email serves as your receipt. Keep this for your records.
Q: When will I be contacted after booking a taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment?
You’ll be contacted by one of our assessors within 2–3 working days to arrange the date, time and location of your assessment.
Q: What if I haven’t heard back within 4 working days of booking a taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment ?
Check your email junk or spam folder first. If you still haven’t heard from us, contact us via the Contact Us page or email info@bltdrivertraining.co.uk
Q: Where are the locations for taxi, wheelchair and combinations assessments?
BLT Driver Training does not have Test Centres. We have approved assessors located nationally who conduct assessments from locations convenient to them and the candidate.
Q: What do I need to bring to the assessment?
You MUST bring your physical photo card driving licence with you. If your licence is a paper version you MUST also bring a form of photo ID such as a passport or local authority issued taxi badge.
Before your assessment can begin, you must present to the assessor a valid photo Driving Licence.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses for driving you must bring these.
You MUST bring a suitable vehicle to complete the assessment in. We do not supply a vehicle.
Q: How long does the taxi assessment take?
Taxi Assessment lasts 60 minutes.
Wheelchair Assessment lasts 30 minutes.
Combination Assessment lasts 90 minutes.
Q: What happens if I fail?
You can rebook and take the assessment again. Your assessor will provide feedback to help you prepare.
Q: What happens if I am late for my assessment?
If you are more than 5 minutes late, the assessment may not go ahead. This decision is at the assessor’s discretion. You will need to rebook and pay again.
Q: Will I have to travel to my assessment location?
We aim to allocate an assessor as close as possible, but you may be required to travel a short distance.
Q: Can I use my Private Hire or Hackney plated vehicle for the taxi assessment?
Candidates are NOT PERMITTED to take the driving assessment in a Private Hire or Hackney plated vehicle except under the following two circumstances:
In both instances the driver MUST show their Private Hire or Hackney badge to the assessor along with their Driving Licence at the start of the assessment.
Q: What vehicle can I take my test in?
Your vehicle must be: right-hand drive, have no more than 9 passenger seats, weigh no more than 3.5t, have 4 wheels, have head restraints in all seats, and have an unobstructed rear window. It must be able to do at least 62mph and have a mph speedometer. A van or a convertible car is not classed as a suitable vehicle for a Taxi Assessment.
Your vehicle must be in a roadworthy condition (able to pass an MOT test) – Check your vehicle is safe to drive – GOV.UK
Your vehicle must be insured for the purposes of the assessment — consult your insurance company to confirm this.
Vehicle checks will be carried out by the assessor before the assessment begins. Failure to present a roadworthy vehicle will result in your assessment not going ahead and your payment fee will be forfeited. You will have to rebook and pay again.
You can also check whether your vehicle is affected by a safety recall using the UK Government Vehicle Recall Service. Visit https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-recall
Q: What happens if there is a fault with my vehicle on the day?
The car must be roadworthy (able to pass an MOT test) Check your vehicle is safe to drive – GOV.UK
Vehicle checks will be carried out by the assessor before the assessment begins. Failure to present a roadworthy vehicle will result in your assessment not going ahead and your payment fee will be forfeited. You will have to rebook and pay again.
Q: My vehicle has been recalled by the manufacturer, can I still use it?
If your vehicle is part of a recall due to safety concerns it cannot be used for a taxi driving assessment. You will need to use an alternative vehicle.
You can check if your vehicle, part or accessory has been recalled at Check if a vehicle, part or accessory has been recalled – GOV.UK
Citroën drivers we are aware that some C3, C4, DS3, DS4 and DS5 models are affected by airbag system recalls. Visit https://www.citroen.co.uk/maintain/safety-recall-check.html to check your vehicle.
Q: Can I take my taxi assessment in an automatic vehicle?
Yes — but check with your Local Authority as they may only issue you a licence to drive an automatic vehicle.
Q: Can I have an interpreter with me for the taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment?
The assessment can only be conducted in the English language.
Taxi candidates are not permitted to use foreign‑language interpreters.
An interpreter may accompany deaf and/or non‑verbal candidates, but the interpreter must be at least 16 years old and communicate in English.
Q: Can I use my friend’s vehicle if mine is off the road?
You can use any vehicle as long as you are insured for the purposes of the assessment, and the vehicle is roadworthy and suitable.
You cannot use: a licensed taxi (private hire or hackney), a van, a vehicle with more than 9 passenger seats, or a convertible car.
Q: Can I use a company car for the taxi or combination assessment?
We do not recommend using a company car.
If you do, you MUST provide evidence:
• That the vehicle is insured for the purposes of a driving assessment
• Written permission from your employer confirming you are authorised to use the vehicle
Failure to provide this will result in the assessment not going ahead and loss of your fee.
Q: Can I use a recording device during the taxi or combination assessment?
We do not allow recording of assessments. Cameras fitted for insurance purposes may remain as long as audio is disabled and the cameras face outward only.
Q: Can I take my taxi or combination assessment in a hire vehicle?
If hiring a vehicle, you must declare to the hire company that it is being used for a driving assessment.
You must also provide a letter on headed paper from the hire company confirming that they give permission for the vehicle to be used for the purposes of an assessment and is appropriately insured. This must be presented to the assessor before the assessment commences.
Failure to do this will result in the assessment not going ahead.
Q: What is the wheelchair assessment?
It’s a practical assessment showing you can safely and professionally assist passengers using wheelchairs — including loading, securing and communication.
Q: Do all drivers need the wheelchair assessment?
Only drivers operating Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV) or where required by their local licensing authority.
Q: Where can I take the wheelchair assessment?
Wheelchair assessments are only available at certain locations. See the Wheelchair Assessment booking form for locations we cover.
Q: Can I take a Taxi Assessment & Wheelchair Assessment on the same day?
Yes. You can book a Combination Assessment taking both the Wheelchair Assessment and Taxi Driver Assessment together at a discounted rate.
Q: Can I take advantage of the Combination Assessment offer on separate days?
To benefit from the reduced rate of a Combination Assessment, your Taxi Driver Assessment and Wheelchair Assessment must be taken consecutively on the same day.
Q: Do I have to provide a wheelchair for the assessment?
No. The assessor will provide the wheelchair.
Q: Do I need to provide a wheelchair accessible vehicle?
Yes — you must bring a suitable wheelchair accessible vehicle for the assessment. The assessor does not provide one.
If you do not have a WAV you should contact a local taxi/private hire company and arrange to hire one for the assessment.
Q: What’s the difference between virtual and eLearning courses?
For Taxi and Private Hire related courses your Licensing Authority will advise which format you need to use to complete the training. Speak directly to them for clarification.
Q: Once I’ve started an eLearning module, do I have to complete it in one sitting?
eLearning courses are split into modules, each approximately 20 minutes long.
Once you begin a module, you must complete it in one sitting. However, you don’t need to take all modules at the same time — you can complete them over several days if preferred.
After completing all modules and passing the 10-question knowledge checks, you’ll be able to download your certificate.
Q: How can I re-enter my eLearning learner portal?
You can revisit the learner portal via your booking confirmation email or Log in to the portal and enter your email address and password.
Q: Are there any IT requirements to complete the eLearning?
You’ll need a fast broadband connection to run the video content. Without it, content may load more slowly but should still function.
You’ll also need an up-to-date browser that supports HTML5, such as:
– Firefox
– Google Chrome
– Safari
– Opera
– Microsoft Edge
Q: What happens if I fail the course?
Q: I suffer with dyslexia — can I still take the course?
Yes. The eLearning course is fully narrated and all text is also displayed on screen to support accessibility.
Q: Do I need to have anything with me to complete a virtual course?
You must show photo ID to the trainer at registration. This must be the physical document — not a copy or photo.
Accepted photo ID includes:
Failure to present valid ID will result in you being unable to join the course. You will have to rebook and pay again.
Q: When will I receive the joining instructions?
Joining instructions are emailed 24 hours before your start time course.
You should check your junk folder if you cannot see them in your inbox.
Q: Can two people share a login and do the course together?
Yes – two people may share a screen, but both must register and pay individually.
Certificates are only issued to those who:
Q: I suffer with dyslexia — can I still take the course?
Yes. Our virtual courses are designed to be easy to follow.
The tutor clearly explains all content onscreen at a steady pace, and you’re free to ask questions or request clarification.
You’ll also receive a course booklet by email afterwards covering all key points.
If you have dyslexia or other learning needs and want to discuss support options, please contact us — we’re here to help.
Q: What IT equipment do I need?
You’ll need a laptop, tablet or phone that can run Zoom with audio and camera enabled.
Make sure you’re on a strong WiFi connection — if you keep losing connection, you’ll be removed from the session and will need to rebook at full cost.
You should consider your location when completing the course. It should be private, and suitable for learning with distractions removed – see next question for full details.
Q: What is a suitable location to complete a virtual course?
Please consider your whereabouts to complete the course. Your location should be private, and suitable for learning with distractions removed.
You must not be driving. If you choose to complete the course from a vehicle it must be stationary, with the keys out of the ignition for the duration of the course. We suggest you sit in the back seat of the vehicle to avoid any doubt
You will be removed if the trainer believes you to be driving. If you are removed, you will have to rebook and pay again.
Please note that the content of the Safeguarding Course is not suitable for under 18s. You should make childcare arrangements if required.
Q: I am a Passenger Assistant and don’t have a driving licence — how do I register?
Passenger Assistants can present either a Passport or Council-issued photo ID at registration.
Q: Will the course be recorded?
Yes, courses may be recorded for training purposes.
Q: Where will the recording be stored?
Recordings are stored within the Zoom account with restricted access. They are stored for 30 days.
Q: Can I view the recording?
No. Recordings are not available to delegates. They will only be reviewed by trainers and BLT Driver Training staff.
Q: How will I receive my taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment certificate?
You’ll be told the outcome immediately after your taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment. You will receive a marking sheet with feedback. If you pass your assessment you will be given a certificates immediately
Q: When will I receive my virtual course certificate?
eCertificates for virtual courses are emailed 2–3 working days after successful course completion.
Q: How do I get my eLeaning certificate?
Your eLearning course certificate can be downloaded from the learner portal once you have passed the course. Log in to the portal using your email and password.
Q: I’m having difficulties downloading my eLearning certificate
Please click here for guidance on downloading your eLearning certificate see: Safeguarding_FAQs-1.pdf.
Q: How long is the certificate valid?
There is no expiry on our certificates. Its validity is at the discretion of the Local Authority that you are applying to.
Q: Can I request a replacement certificate?
Taxi, Wheelchair and Combination Assessments – Yes. If you lose your certificate, use the Contact Us form to request a duplicate. An admin fee will apply.
eLearning Certificate – Your eLearning course certificate can be downloaded from the learner portal once you have passed the course. Log in to the portal using your email and password.
Virtual Course Certificate – The certificate will have been emailed to you after course completion. If you are unable to locate the certificate in your emails use the Contact Us form to request a duplicate.
Q: How do you store my data?
Please read how we handle your data here
Q: Can I cancel or change my taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment booking?
You must provide 7 days notice to cancel or change your assessment.
You will need to rebook and pay again. If you do not attend, are more than 5 minutes late for your assessment or do not cancel with 7 or more days notice.
If you need to cancel your assessment, you must notify us as soon as possible by emailing taxi@bltdrivertraining.co.uk
Failure to attend your course, or to provide sufficient notice, will result in your fee being forfeited.
Short Notice Bookings – If you book your course within 7 days of the course date, this is considered a short notice booking. Short notice course bookings are non-refundable once confirmed.
Refunds and reschedules are managed according to our official Cancellation Policy in the Terms and Conditions.
Q: Can I cancel or change my virtual course booking?
You must provide at least 7 days’ notice to cancel or change your booking.
You will need to rebook and pay again if you do not attend or do not cancel with 7 or more days notice.
If you need to cancel or reschedule your course, please notify us as soon as possible by emailing info@bltdrivertraining.co.uk
Failure to attend your course, or to provide sufficient notice, will result in your fee being forfeited.
Short Notice Bookings – If you book your course within 7 days of the course date, this is considered a short notice booking. Short notice course bookings are non-refundable once confirmed.
Refunds and reschedules are managed according to our official Cancellation Policy in the Terms and Conditions.
Q: Can I cancel or change my eLearning course booking?
You cannot cancel your eLearning booking once you have started the training.
If you have not started the training you can cancel and request a refund. You must notify us by emailing info@bltdrivertraining.co.uk
Refunds and reschedules are managed according to our official Cancellation Policy in the Terms and Conditions.
Q: What if I don’t show up?
If you fail to attend your taxi, wheelchair or combination assessment, or your virtual course, your fee will be forfeited. You will need to rebook and pay again if you do not attend.
Q: What do I do if I am not happy with my Assessment?
BLT Driver Training has a complaints procedure which you must follow. All complaints should be made in writing to info@bltdrivertraining.org.uk or to BLT Driver Training, c/o Police and Fire HQ, Leigh Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9SJ within 10 days of your Assessment.
Receipt of your complaint will be acknowledged within 2 working days and will outline our next steps.
Q: How do I raise a complaint?
If you wish to make a complaint you must follow our complaints procedure outlined in the Terms & Conditions.
Q: When will I be contacted after booking the course?
You’ll be contacted by one of our assessors within 2–3 working days to arrange the date, time and location of your course. At this time they will be happy to discuss any specific concerns you may have.
Q: What if I haven’t heard back within 4 working days?
Check your email junk or spam folder first. If you still haven’t heard from us, contact us via the Contact Us page or email info@bltdrivertraining.co.uk
Q: Where will my course take place?
Our assessor will agree a mutually convenient location with you. This may be from your home or an agreed local location.
Q: What do I need to bring with me on the day?
You MUST bring your physical photo card driving licence with you. If your licence is a paper version you MUST also bring a form of photo ID such as a passport.
Before your training can begin, you must present to the assessor a valid photo Driving Licence.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses for driving you must bring these.
You MUST bring a suitable vehicle to complete the training in. We do not supply a vehicle.
Q: What vehicle can I use to complete the course?
Your vehicle must be: right-hand drive, have no more than 9 passenger seats, weigh no more than 3.5t, have 4 wheels, have head restraints in all seats, and have an unobstructed rear window. It must be able to do at least 62mph and have a mph speedometer. A van or a convertible car is not classed as a suitable vehicle.
Your vehicle must be in a roadworthy condition (able to pass an MOT test) – Check your vehicle is safe to drive – GOV.UK
Your vehicle must be insured for the purposes of the training — consult your insurance company to confirm this.
Vehicle checks will be carried out by the assessor before the training begins. Failure to present a roadworthy vehicle will result in your training not going ahead and your payment fee will be forfeited. You will have to rebook and pay again.
You can also check whether your vehicle is affected by a safety recall using the UK Government Vehicle Recall Service. Visit https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-recall
Q: What happens if there is a fault with my vehicle on the day?
The car must be roadworthy (able to pass an MOT test) Check your vehicle is safe to drive – GOV.UK
Vehicle checks will be carried out by the assessor before the assessment begins. Failure to present a roadworthy vehicle will result in your training not going ahead and your payment fee will be forfeited. You will have to rebook and pay again.
Q: My vehicle has been recalled by the manufacturer, can I still use it?
If your vehicle is part of a recall due to safety concerns it cannot be used for a taxi driving assessment. You will need to use an alternative vehicle.
You can check if your vehicle, part or accessory has been recalled at Check if a vehicle, part or accessory has been recalled – GOV.UK
Citroën drivers we are aware that some C3, C4, DS3, DS4 and DS5 models are affected by airbag system recalls. Visit https://www.citroen.co.uk/maintain/safety-recall-check.html to check your vehicle.
Q: How long does the course take?
A Confidence Builder Course lasts 60 minutes.
Q: Can I take my assessment in an automatic vehicle or EV?
Yes. You can use either an automatic or electric vehicle to complete the training.
Q: Can I use a recording device during the course?
We do not allow recording of training. Cameras fitted for insurance purposes may remain as long as audio is disabled and the cameras face outward only.
Q: What happens if I am late for my course?
If you are more than 5 minutes late, the training may not go ahead. This decision is at the assessor’s discretion. You will need to rebook and pay again.
Q: Can this course determine if I am medically fit to drive?
No. Our assessors are not qualified to make this assessmemt. Contact a provider such as Driving Mobility
Q: Will I receive feedback?
Yes. The assessor will give you verbal feedback at the end of the session. You will receive a written report within 5 working days. Accompanying this will be a link to a video providing a recap summary of the key points to remember going forward.
Q: Should the training be repeated?
Candidates may wish to repeat the training every 2 years but there is no obligation to do so.
Q: Does the course follow a standard format?
Yes. However, it does allow flexibility to tailor it to a candidate’s specific needs.
