PHV signage from 4 January 2027

TfL's driver policy says that from 4 January 2027 all private hire vehicles must display TfL signage, unless exempt. This guide sets out what TfL says about the signs, where they go, who can be exempt and what can happen if a sign is missing. Where TfL has not said something, we say so.

What the policy says

Paragraph 4.8.3 of the Taxi and Private Hire Driver Policy (version 6.0, dated 1 September 2026) says that from 4 January 2027 all PHVs are required to display TfL signage, unless exempt. It says the signage includes information on how to make a complaint to TfL plus other statutory and important safety information.

The same paragraph says new and renewed PHV driver licences granted from 1 July 2025 carry a condition that the PHV being driven displays the signage, unless the vehicle is exempt. TfL's licence page also says that from 1 July 2025 drivers must ensure the PHV they are driving has the signage displayed. The policy's change log records that the date for all PHVs was updated to 4 January 2027.

What the signs show

TfL's guidance says TfL reviewed existing signs and combined them with the new ones to cut the number of separate signs. For PHVs, the signage includes the complaints information, a no-smoking sign, a cycle safety sign, a seatbelt sign, a pre-book only sign and a message asking passengers to respect their driver. The guidance table marks card payment information and wheelchair user information for taxis only. We have not reproduced the artwork. See TfL's guidance for the images.

Where the signs go

There are two signs, one for the nearside and one for the offside (driver's side). Both go inside the vehicle. TfL's guidance says:

• The first choice is the inside of the rear quarterlight window, if one is available, the space is big enough and passengers in the rear seats can see and read the sign.
• If not, the sign goes on the inside of the rear door window, at the top if possible, or at the bottom if not.
• In larger PHVs, two signs should be displayed in an appropriate location.

The policy adds that the signage must be in a visibly prominent place, must not block the driver's or passengers' view from the windows, and must not be attached to any airbag system.

How you get the signs

TfL says its vehicle inspection officers install the signs at the annual licensing inspection, using stickers, and decide where they go if the quarterlights cannot be used. The new signs replace the old no-smoking signs, which should be removed. You and the owner must not remove the new signs while the vehicle stays licensed.

If you need replacements, TfL's guidance says to call or email its contracts team and put "Signage request" and your registration in the email title. The contact details are in the guidance PDF. If TfL sends signs to you, the guidance gives fitting steps: a clean, dry window, peel the backing from one end first, press as you peel, and smooth out bubbles.

Exemptions

TfL's guidance says exemptions may be granted only in exceptional circumstances, case by case, and that you must show a clear need, for example for security reasons. Looks are not a valid reason. An exemption lasts only for the licence period applied for, so you must apply again each year. If you hold one, the guidance says to carry the confirmation letter.

The guidance's table says:

• A vehicle exempt from displaying licence discs can be exempt from the signage, but must still show no-smoking signs.
• Driver guide, security and chauffeur or executive services are considered case by case.
• Exemptions are not granted for minicab or other PHV services, even if that is not the vehicle's main use, nor for school, accessible or hospital transport.

The guidance gives an email address for exemption requests. Taxi exemptions do not exist.

What happens if a sign is missing

The policy lists failing to display TfL signage in a PHV as a PHV driver offence. For a first offence in the period of your current licence and the one before, it says a written warning is normal. Further offences in that period lead to suspension or revocation unless there is significant mitigation. It also says repeated different offences, typically three within two years, will lead to suspension or revocation.

What we could not find

• A TfL page or notice that confirms how many PHVs have been fitted so far, or how drivers whose vehicles have not yet been inspected should show compliance on 4 January 2027.
• Whether replacement signs are charged for. The guidance does not say.
• How the 1 July 2025 licence condition and the 4 January 2027 date work together in practice. TfL's guidance says it may consider licensing action once the signs are installed in all PHVs.

Check the TfL licence page and TPH notices before the date.

Related guides

Read badge and licence rules, vehicle licence and insurance basics, CCTV in your vehicle (another signage rule), and complaints and lost property. Put your vehicle inspection date in the licence reminder calendar.