There are two types of taxis in Bristol known as Hackney Carriages and Private Hire.

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Hackney Carriages

• Bristol-licensed Hackney Carriage vehicles (also known as ‘taxis’) can pick you up from a taxi rank and can be hailed down in the street.
• The vehicles are painted blue, have an illuminated taxi sign on the roof and display white and red licence plates on the front and rear of the vehicle.
• All ‘taxis’ are wheelchair accessible and there is no charge for assistance dogs or for carrying aids like wheelchairs.

Private Hire

• Private hire vehicles have to be pre-booked and cannot pick you up from a taxi rank or be flagged down in the street.
• Come in various colours (except Bristol Blue) and display yellow and red licence plates with black printing on the front and back of the vehicle.
• Can only be booked through a licensed operator and must be booked prior to travel.

Taxi ranks

Taxi ranks are located throughout Bristol, some operate in the evenings and others operate 24 hours

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Information for taxi operators