Since 1999 it has been a requirement in Eastbourne, that before you can be issued with a Hackney Carriage or Private Hire Driver's Licence you must first pass a DSA Driving Test.
To apply for a Taxi licence visit:
www.eastbourne.gov.uk/business/licences/taxi/apply
The test consists of the following:
The eysight test:
At the start of your practical test you will be asked to read in good daylight (with the aid of glasses or contact lenses if worn) a registration mark fixed to a motor vehicle with letters and figures 79.4 millimetres high at a distance of 20.5 metres (20 metres for a new style number plate). If you fail the eyesight test, you will be unable to take the driving part but will still be able to continue with the wheelchair section.
The practical test:
The practical test will last for about 35 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The taxi assessment test is reflective of modern driving practices, the standard is set at a level suitable for the full driving licence holder, which is therefore higher than the learner driver test. During the test you should drive in a natural way, and should not adjust your driving to what you may feel the examiner would expect to see. The examiner will give you clear instructions which you should follow throughout the test. To pass you are permitted to accumulate up to 9 driving faults, 10 or more would be a fail. It is important that you read the Highway Code and be familiar with your vehicle.
More Information:
www.transportoffice.gov.uk