With the expected increase in the number of persons operating taxis and other public-passenger vehicles The Sunday Gleaner presents a reminder of the measures which should be taken to ensure that you operate legally.

This could save you thousands of dollars in fines which will be levelled if you are caught operating illegally.

All categories of public-passenger services, except the exclusively licensed vehicles are licensed under the Road Traffic Act.

A road licence is issued in relation to one vehicle, as evidenced by its registration plate number which is displayed on the licence. A vehicle may not have more than one road licence at a time. The licence is granted to the owner or owners of the motor vehicle, who must provide the registration certificate as proof of ownership.

The requirements for Hackney Carriage and Route Taxi licences are as follows:

A hackney carriage is a vehicle with seating accommodation for not more than four persons, standing or plying for hire or reward on any thoroughfare or place frequented by the public

Requirements:

K2 application form obtainable at any Transport Authority Office.

The original and photocopy of current

(a) Registration certificate

(b) Certificate of fitness

(c) Insurance certificate/cover note.

'L' form (purchase receipt at tax office - then take to Examination Depot along with vehicle).

Valid identification (eg. national ID, passport or driver's licence) must accompany all applications.

Route Taxi:

A route taxi is a public-passenger vehicle which seats no more than 10 passengers. These vehicles operate by taking up and setting down passengers at all bus stops along a specified route.

Requirements:

K1 application form obtainable at any Transport Authority Office:

The original and photocopy of current

(a) Registration certificate

(b) Certificate of fitness

(c) Insurance certificate/cover note

'L' form (purchase receipt at tax office - then take to Examination Depot along with vehicle).

Taxpayer registration number.

A recommendation must be obtained from one of the following:

(a) Justice of the peace

(b) Principal

(c) Superintendent or inspector of police

(d) Minister of religion

Valid identification (e.g. national ID, passport or driver's licence) must accompany all applications.

BADGES:

All drivers of public-passenger vehicles MUST posses a badge issued by the Transport Authority. The requirements for obtaining a badge are.

1. Applicant must be:

a) Twenty-one years and over

b) Able to read and write.

2. Two passport-size photographs certified within the last six months by:

a) Superintendent of police or inspector of police

b) Minister of religion

c) Justice of the peace.

3. Two recommendations;

a) One from a superintendent of police or inspector of police and

b) One from a minister of religion or justice of the peace.

4. Copy of driver's licence.

5. Copy of tax registration number.

6. Undergo processing by the Ministry of National Security to obtain police records.