Applications open for operators to run self‑driving taxi services in new government pilot

Operators can now apply to run self‑driving taxi‑style services on public roads, as the government opens applications for its flagship automated passenger services pilot scheme — a key step toward allowing the public to book autonomous taxi journeys later this year.

The Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that the pilot will enable approved operators to run services that closely mirror today’s taxi and private hire operations, including on‑demand point‑to‑point trips. The scheme is designed to test how self‑driving vehicles can be safely integrated into the existing taxi market and regulated alongside traditional licensing frameworks.

Under the pilot, operators will need to demonstrate robust safety systems, cyber‑security protections and clear operational plans before any vehicle is permitted on the road. Each service will also require consent from the relevant local licensing authority — including councils and Transport for London — ensuring deployments align with local taxi and PHV policies.

The government says the scheme will help shape how automated taxi services are licensed and overseen in the long term, feeding directly into the regulatory regime being developed under the Automated Vehicles Act 2024.

Companies already active in the UK’s autonomous vehicle sector — including Wayve, Uber and Waymo — have signalled interest in participating. Ministers say the pilot will allow operators to test real‑world taxi‑style services, from short urban trips to longer cross‑boundary journeys, while gathering data on safety, passenger experience and operational performance.

Roads and Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said the launch “brings the UK a step closer to offering safe, reliable self‑driving taxi services”, adding that the technology could reduce collisions linked to human error and expand mobility options for people who rely heavily on taxis.

Applications are now open, with the first approved services expected to begin operating later in 2026. The pilot will run alongside ongoing work to develop national licensing, permitting and safety standards for automated passenger services.