Taxi licensing test sparks debate in Aberdeen

In Aberdeen, news reported of a “controversy” that has emerged over the city’s taxi licensing test, specifically the Street Knowledge Test, which has sparked debate among residents and officials.

The test requires applicants to answer 80 questions about streets, landmarks, routes, and the Highway Code. According to reports, critics argue that the test is outdated and acts as a barrier to entry, contributing to a shortage of taxi drivers, especially during peak hours. An example of an outdated question is, “How do you get to the Neptune Bar?” despite the bar having closed over a decade ago according to reports.

The debate intensified when Kashif Iftikhar, a would-be taxi driver, attempted to bribe officials with between £700 and £800 in a desperate bid to pass the test after failing it twelve times. His offers were promptly rejected, and his tests were marked as invalid when he was caught using his mobile phone to look up answers. Iftikhar, who has over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry and three years as a delivery driver in Aberdeen, expressed his urgent need for employment to support his family.

This incident has led to calls for reforming the taxi licensing process in Aberdeen. With a pass rate of only 18.5%, many question the fairness and effectiveness of the current system. The introduction of ride-sharing services like Uber in 2024 has further complicated the landscape, with some advocating for the elimination of the Street Knowledge Test altogether.