Under the Equality Act 2010, licensed drivers of taxis and private hire vehicles are under a duty to carry passengers with guide, hearing and other assistance dogs without additional charge. When carrying such passengers, drivers have a duty to:
- convey the disabled passenger’s dog and allow it to remain under the physical control of the owner; and
- not to make any additional charge for doing so.
It is best practice to ask the passenger where they want themselves and their dog to sit in the vehicle.
Enforcement
Under the Equality Act 2010, it is an offence for any operator or driver to refuse to carry assistance dogs or to charge more for the fare or booking. On conviction for such an offence, drivers can be fined up to £1,000 and have their licence removed.
To ensure that the Equality Act 2010 is upheld, the Licensing Authority will:
- investigate all reports of violations of the Act and take appropriate enforcement action as appropriate
Medical exemption certificates
Drivers who have a certifiable medical condition which is aggravated by exposure to dogs may apply to the council for exemption from the duty on medical grounds. If no exemption has been applied for and subsequently granted, then drivers are still required to carry assistance dogs.
The Licencing Authority will:
- Only issue an exemption certificate when it is authorised by the driver’s GP and is accompanied by medical evidence, for example a blood test, a skin prick test or clinical history.