What to expect
To become a licensed taxi driver in Hartlepool, you must pass a written knowledge test. The test includes mostly multiple choice questions and is designed to check your understanding of key topics.
What the test covers
You will be tested on the following areas:
- taxi laws and licensing rules
- child sexual exploitation (CSE). You must complete the free Barnardo’s CSE online training before taking the test
- numeracy, ncluding fare calculation and giving the correct change
- local knowledge, where key places are in Hartlepool
- routes, the shortest route between two locations
- the Highway Code, including road signs, speed limits, and safe driving practices
If you are applying for a hackney carriage licence, you will also be tested on taxi ranks and fares (tariffs).
Example questions
Location question
Where is the Nuclear Power Station Social Club?
- the power station approach road
- Graythorp
- Seaton Lane, Seaton Carew ✓
Route question
What is the shortest route from the Civic Centre to Hartfields?
| A | Civic Centre → Avenue Road → Raby Road → Hart Lane → Merlin Way → Hartfields | ✓ |
| B | Civic Centre → Victoria Road → Marina Way → Cleveland Way → Hartfields | |
| C | Civic Centre → Avenue Road → Victoria Road → Grange Road → Wooler Road → Elwick Road → Dunston Road → Hart Lane → Merlin Way → Hartfields |
Tips for success
- study local maps and practice routes
- visit key locations in person if possible
- use online tools like Google Maps to plan the shortest routes
- review the Highway Code and road signs