For visitors arriving in the capital, the transport terminology can be confusing. The terms "taxi" and "minicab" are often used interchangeably, but in London, they refer to two distinctly regulated services with different pricing models and booking rules.
The London Black Cab
The iconic London black cab (officially known as a Hackney Carriage) is the only vehicle legally permitted to ply for hire. This means you can hail them on the street when their yellow light is illuminated, or board them at designated ranks outside major stations.
Black cab drivers undergo years of rigorous testing known as "The Knowledge," memorising thousands of streets. Their fares are strictly regulated by Transport for London (TfL) and are calculated on a meter, which fluctuates based on time, distance, and traffic conditions.
Private Hire Vehicles (Minicabs)
Minicabs, or private hire vehicles (PHVs), operate differently. By law, a minicab must be booked in advance through a licensed operator; they cannot be flagged down on the street.
Because they are pre-booked, minicabs provide an estimated fare upfront. For longer, predictable routes—such as a Heathrow Airport taxi transfer or crossing multiple transport zones—minicabs are often a highly cost-effective choice compared to an open-ended meter.
When you request a ride through us, we accept, price, and fulfil your journey directly with our licensed drivers. You receive an upfront estimate, allowing you to budget for your trip without watching a meter tick up in heavy traffic. For more details on budgeting, see our guide on how much a London taxi costs.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I hail a minicab on the street? A: No, minicabs must be pre-booked by law; only licensed black cabs can be hailed off the street without a reservation.
Q: Are minicabs cheaper than black cabs? A: Minicabs can often provide a more cost-effective estimated fare for longer journeys, such as airport transfers, as the price is not subject to a running traffic meter.
Q: Do minicabs and black cabs use the same bus lanes? A: Black cabs are permitted to use most London bus lanes to bypass traffic, whereas standard minicabs generally cannot.
Q: Can I pay by card in a minicab? A: Yes, digital card payments are standard when pre-booking online, whereas all black cabs must accept card payments via a terminal in the back.