Transport for London (TfL) is moving to better regulate London pedicabs with new measures being introduced in stages throughout 2026 and 2027.
These involve greater driver vetting, vehicle safety standards, and standardised fares to protect customers.
From 30 October, it will be mandatory for all pedicab drivers to complete an enhanced DBS check, meet English language requirements, hold a valid driver’s licence and comply with safety and medical standards.
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan said: “Pedicabs should be a fun way to explore London, but too often people face rip-off fares, blaring music and unsafe behaviour.
“We’re bringing in these new rules so that both customers and drivers can benefit from an industry that is more safe, reliable and professional.”
Under the Pedicabs (London) Act 2024, TfL was granted the authority to regulate and professionalise the industry.
Among the restrictions to be introduced, a ban on external audio from pedicabs was particularly high on local residents’ agenda.
MP for Cities of London and Westminster, Rachel Blake, said: “For far too long, residents in the centre of London have had to put up with the noise and disruption that pedicabs bring.
“Residents across the Cities of London and Westminster will welcome the regulations coming in today as a first step to clamping down on rogue pedicab operators, with most importantly a ban on amplified noise.
“Local communities and businesses should be respected, and today’s new rules show significant progress being made.”
Another important measure will see pedicab fares standardised at a rate which ensures they can still offer an income that exceeds London Living Wage, but protects consumers from “rip-off” pricing.
Under the proposals, pedicab fares would be capped at a £5 base rate, plus £1 per minute, with an extra charge of up to £3 for each additional passenger.
With pedicab licence applications being accepted from 9 March, the pedicab driver licensing fee is proposed to be £114 and the pedicab vehicle licensing fee £100, both for a one-year licence.
The new rules will be phased in, with maximum fares taking effect from the end of October and vehicle licences becoming mandatory from February 2027.
Feature image: Free to use from Tanya Barrow via Unsplash
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