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Transport for London (TfL) has recorded a significant rise in applications for the renowned Knowledge of London test, despite ongoing concerns that traditional black cabs could eventually disappear from the capital’s streets.
Recent figures show applications have surged by 68.6 per cent, reaching 742 by the end of November. At the same time, the average time required to complete the Knowledge has fallen sharply, from 5.25 years in 2020 to just three years, providing a major boost for London’s taxi industry.
Marking its 160th anniversary, the Knowledge is on course to attract its highest annual number of applicants in more than ten years. TfL has introduced measures to simplify the qualification process as part of its Taxi and Private Hire Action Plan, aimed at addressing challenges expected over the next five years.
By November 2025, 1,390 individuals were actively working towards completing the Knowledge. TfL said this reflects both the prestige of the qualification and the increasing appeal of a career in London’s taxi trade.
Helen Chapman, TfL’s Director of Licensing and Regulation, said the organisation was proud to see renewed interest in the qualification. Katie Chennells, Knowledge of London Manager, added that TfL remains committed to supporting candidates and maintaining the highest standards of safety, service, and professionalism. She noted that London’s cab drivers continue to represent the spirit and legacy of the Knowledge by delivering trusted and accessible transport across the city.
TfL’s Taxi and Private Hire Action Plan outlines 14 initiatives designed to support drivers and make operating in the capital more manageable. Key measures include protecting taxi access to bus lanes, regulating taxi booking platforms, and urging the Government to extend the plug-in taxi grant (PiTG).
The PiTG provides financial incentives of up to £3,000 for vehicles with a zero-emission range of 10 to 69 miles, and £4,000 for vehicles capable of travelling 70 miles or more without producing emissions.
Earlier this year, Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan highlighted the historical significance and ongoing importance of black cabs, stating that the action plan would help safeguard the trade, attract new drivers, and uphold high safety standards for both passengers and drivers.
The rise in applications follows a concerning report published in March, which warned that London’s black cabs could vanish within the next 20 years. Research by Centre for London suggested that if current declines continue, black cabs could disappear entirely by 2045.
The organisation urged the Government, the Mayor, and TfL to take decisive action to protect the trade. Survey findings revealed that two-thirds of Londoners believe stronger protections are needed, while 78 per cent expect black cabs to remain part of the city a century from now.
Sam Pooke, Head of Public Policy at Freenow, stressed that taxis are a vital component of London’s transport network. He warned that without meaningful intervention from city and national authorities, the iconic black cab could soon become a relic of the past.
