Driving a private hire vehicle: how to enter the industry

Drivers of private hire vehicles may well be in one of the top 5 sought after jobs in France today, according to recent studies. Whether a new driver in the industry or a long-time professional looking to expand their horizons, more and more people are joining the profession every day. This lightning development in private hire vehicles is still fairly recent – statistics beg the question as to whether it is nothing more than a short-lived fad. Are new additions to the profession simply following a trend, or is this market here to stay?
This article will take a look into this sought after profession and help furnish you with all the necessary information in case you’d like to try it out for yourself. So if you’re looking for more information about becoming a private hire vehicle driver, you’ve come to the right place!

Becoming a private hire vehicle chauffeur: how do I get the professional license?

How does a newbie to the industry become a private chauffeur? The first and most important answer relates directly to obtaining the professional license which allows access into the industry and status as a driver of private hire vehicles . If you’re living in France, the process is fairly straightforward. You will need to write a letter to the Préfecture of the region that you live in. It usually takes around four months to be sent the relevant information after receipt of your letter. Having said this, the current increase in demand means it may take a little longer.
What requirements must you fulfil to be able to drive a private hire vehicle ? Firstly, you must have held a full driving license (Permit B) for at least three years. You will also need to show a doctor’s certificate testifying that you are safe to drive and transport others in your vehicle. Finally, you must take the official exam – or present a certificate proving you have at least one year’s experience as a taxi driver within the last ten years.

Becoming a private hire vehicle driver: what about the salary?

Naturally, you may be wondering about the salary in the private chauffeur profession. In fact, the salaries of private hire vehicle drivers differ enormously depending on the status of the individual in question. In France there is the possibility to work as a self-employed driver or in tandem with a company. Usually, employed drivers earn between €1700 and €2000 a month. Freelance drivers’ monthly earnings can reach up to €3000 – these drivers do risk the worry of job instability, though, and must manage their finances single-handedly.
If you’d like to find out more about wages of private hire vehicle drivers, go to the website at chauffeur privé, click on the tab “sign up as a chauffeur” and in a few clicks you’ll be able to access a wealth of information about this profession online.

Requirements for the private hire vehicle profession

To become a private hire vehicle driver, there are certain conditions which must be respected even after having completed the necessary documentation. The first is the type of vehicle. The engine must be at least 88kw and the car itself needs to have between four and nine seats available. As for the length, your vehicle must be at least 4.5 metres long. The car must also be less than 6 years old and have cleared its MOT.
On top of these requirements, becoming a private hire vehicle driver also means wearing appropriate clothing, presenting yourself well and ensuring that your knowledge of the industry is up to scratch.

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