The aim is to further strengthen passenger safety, improve accessibility and support the local licensed trade across the county.
The revised policy – shaped by a year of engagement with drivers, operators, disability groups and residents – introduces improvements to driver application processes and changes to vehicle standards, including accessibility requirements and zero‑emission ambitions. It also updates the "safe and suitable" criteria for licensed drivers in line with changes to national guidance.
For drivers and operators, the updates provide clearer and more consistent requirements across Buckinghamshire, helping the licensed trade plan for future accessibility and environmental expectations. For residents, the policy ensures hackney carriage and private hire vehicles continue to offer a safe, reliable and inclusive way to travel.
Mark Winn, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Housing & Regulatory Services, said:
"Our priority is ensuring everyone in Buckinghamshire can travel safely and confidently. These updates reflect what we have heard from both the trade and the public, and they strike the right balance between protecting passengers and supporting drivers.
"I want to thank all those who contributed to this review – your feedback has been invaluable in shaping these improvements as we continue to strengthen the licensing system for the benefit of all."
Buckinghamshire council will work with the licensed hackney carriage and private hire trade on the implementation of the updated policy, expected from September 2026.
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