minicabs

Minicabs are a type of private hire vehicle, commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in London. Unlike black cabs, which are licensed taxis that can be hailed directly from the street or use taxi ranks, minicabs must be pre-booked. This pre-booking can be done in advance, often by phone, app, or online. Customers cannot hail a minicab on the street; it must be arranged beforehand.

The vehicles themselves are typically standard cars, unlike the distinctive black cabs. Minicab drivers are licensed by Transport for London (TfL) or the relevant local authority and undergo background checks. The fares for minicabs are usually agreed upon at the time of booking, providing a fixed price for the journey, although some may operate on a meter. This contrasts with black cabs, whose fares are determined by a meter.

The minicab industry is a significant part of the private transportation network in major UK cities. The rise of ride-sharing apps has blurred some of the traditional distinctions, as many app-based services operate under similar regulations to minicabs, requiring pre-booking through the platform. However, the core concept of a pre-booked private hire vehicle remains the defining characteristic of a minicab.