Taxi and private hire vehicle statistics, England: 2026 published

The Department for Transport has released the 2026 taxi and private hire vehicle statistics, providing an updated picture of the size and shape of the sector across England and Wales. The publication focuses on licensing volumes rather than usage trends, offering a snapshot of how the industry is evolving as of 1 April 2026.

The headline figures show a mixed pattern of growth and decline across different licence types. According to the Department for Transport, England recorded 52,300 licensed taxis, representing a 7% decrease compared with 2024. In contrast, the number of licensed private hire vehicles rose to 290,000, an increase of 13% over the same period. Driver licensing also grew, with 417,300 taxi and PHV driver licences issued — a 9% rise since 2024.

Accessibility remains a key area of focus, though the statistics indicate a slight reduction in provision: 34,500 wheelchair‑accessible taxis and PHVs were licensed in England, a 4% decrease compared with 2024.

The figures are drawn from the Department for Transport’s annual survey of licensing authorities across England and Wales, forming part of the accredited official statistics series first established in 2013. The dataset provides a consistent national overview, though the Department notes that figures for individual licensing authorities are less robust and fall outside the accredited scope.

This year’s publication also sits alongside ongoing work to modernise data collection. A digital discovery report, referenced in the wider collection, highlights opportunities to streamline how licensing information is gathered from local authorities and operators — signalling future improvements in how the sector is monitored.