Taxi Medicals in Northern Ireland: Licensing and Appointment Guide
Northern Ireland taxi applicants and some renewing drivers need a medical assessment as part of the licensing process. The required form and timing depend on the application, so drivers should follow the paperwork issued by the licensing authority.
What Is a Taxi Medical?
A taxi medical is a health assessment carried out by a GMC-registered doctor to determine whether you’re medically fit to hold a taxi driver’s licence. The exact medical requirements depend on your licensing authority, but in Northern Ireland taxi drivers are generally expected to meet the Group 2 medical standards.
Your doctor will review your medical history, carry out the required examination and complete the relevant medical documentation for submission to your licensing authority.
Who Needs a Taxi Medical?
You may require a taxi medical if you are:
- Applying for your first taxi driver’s licence
- Renewing your taxi licence
- Returning to taxi driving following illness
- Requested by your licensing authority to complete a medical assessment
- Applying to drive private hire or public hire vehicles
Taxi medical requirements vary depending on your age and licensing authority. In Northern Ireland, new applicants and many renewal applicants will require a medical assessment as part of the licensing process.
What Happens During a Taxi Medical?
Our taxi medicals are simple, efficient and normally take no longer than 15 minutes.
Your assessment typically includes:
- Review of your medical history
- Blood pressure assessment
- Vision assessment
- General physical examination
- Medication review
- Completion of your taxi medical form
Before you leave, we’ll ensure your paperwork has been completed correctly.
What Should You Bring?
To help your appointment run smoothly, please bring:
- Your taxi medical form (if supplied by your licensing authority)
- Valid photographic identification
- Your glasses or contact lenses if normally worn
- A list of your current medications
- Relevant hospital or consultant letters if appropriate
If you’re unsure what documentation is required, our team will be happy to advise before your appointment.
Medical Conditions That May Be Discussed
The doctor will review any medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely.
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Sleep apnoea
- Epilepsy or seizures
- Neurological conditions
- Mental health conditions
- Vision disorders
Having one of these conditions does not automatically prevent you from holding a taxi licence. Each assessment is considered individually against the appropriate medical standards.
When Do You Need a Taxi Medical?
The timing of your medical depends on your licensing authority and personal circumstances.
- When applying for your first taxi driver’s licence
- When renewing your taxi licence (where required)
- If requested following a change in your medical history
- When requested by your licensing authority
If you’re unsure whether you require a medical, check the information provided by your local licensing authority before booking your appointment.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Most taxi medicals are straightforward. Before attending we recommend:
- Bringing all requested paperwork.
- Knowing your current medications.
- Wearing your usual driving glasses if required.
- Remaining well hydrated.
- Allowing enough time to reach your appointment.
Appointments and support
Taxi medical appointments are available at Skyemont Health clinics across Northern Ireland. Bring the taxi medical form supplied for your application and complete the applicant sections before attending.
External Resources
- nidirect – Taxi Driver Licence Applications
- GOV.UK – Taxi Licensing (Northern Ireland)
- General Medical Council
- nidirect
Book a Taxi Medical
Book a taxi medical online and bring the licensing form, identification and any driving glasses you use.
