Ten years ago, most passengers hailed a taxi from the street or booked through a local base. Today, a few taps on a smartphone are all it takes to get a lift. Apps like Uber and Bolt have changed how people find a ride, and that shift has deeply affected the traditional taxi industry.
Private hire drivers can now work with digital platforms that send jobs directly to their phones. This has made it easier for new drivers to enter the trade without joining a local base. At the same time, it has created more competition. With more vehicles on the road, there are now fewer busy spots and more drivers waiting for fares.
Taxi drivers have had to adapt quickly. Some sign up to work on these platforms alongside their usual jobs. Others stay with local bases that still serve loyal customers, especially in smaller towns. But no matter the choice, the daily pace has changed. Instead of waiting at a rank, many now wait for a ping from the app, competing for jobs with drivers nearby.
The use of technology also means drivers need to manage more than just driving. They monitor app ratings, handle digital payments, and follow platform rules. Customer feedback is instant and can affect future bookings. This level of tracking can be helpful, but it also adds pressure—especially during busy times or long shifts.
Another big change is the way new drivers enter the trade. Many are attracted to the flexible hours and the promise of steady income. But flexibility also means managing everything yourself, including licensing and vehicle cover. One essential requirement is having the correct taxi insurance in place. Without it, a driver cannot legally carry passengers for hire andreward. This insurance is designed for the demands of the job, offering protection for high-mileage use, multiple daily trips, and regular public contact. It can also include extras like legal cover and breakdown assistance. For both public and private hire drivers, it’s the key to staying compliant and protected on the road.
Some drivers prefer the structure of a local taxi base, where radio jobs are shared and regular customers are familiar faces. Others enjoy the independence of working directly through an app. But both routes come with similar costs—fuel, vehicle upkeep, and taxi insurance all add up quickly. The main difference lies in how work is found and how earnings are managed.
Apps have also changed how customers view the trade. Before, many people called a base or flagged down a cab. Now, passengers expect fast arrivals, live tracking, and in-app payments. This can be an advantage for drivers who work well with tech—but it also means staying updated with the latest app features and phone systems.
Traditional taxi operators have responded in their own way. Some have launched their own apps to compete with global platforms. Others offer fixed pricing, better customer service, or focus on areas that ride-share companies don’t always cover. The industry is shifting, but it’s far from gone.
Behind every app job is still a driver navigating real traffic, dealing with real passengers, and working hard to earn a living. And whether they choose a platform or a local base, every driver still needs to keep their vehicle licensed, clean, and fully covered. Many drivers compare taxi insurance options through brokers to find the best deal. Some look for flexible payments, while others need extra cover based on their working hours or location.
Technology may have changed the way jobs are booked, but the work itself remains rooted in service, reliability, and trust. And as long as people need to get from place to place, drivers will keep adapting—on the road, in the apps, and everywhere in between.
