UK BLOG

London taxi drivers are famed the world over for actually knowing where they are going. But this amazing ability doesn’t just materialise overnight. Since 1865 taxi drivers have studied the ‘Knowledge’, the London taxi driver’s guide to ensuring passengers are taken to their destination by the shortest possible route. There are approximately 21,000 licensed taxis in London, driven by 25,000 licensed taxi drivers (some share cabs), all of whom have passed the test. But how knowledgeable are you about the Knowledge? Take our quick test below to find out. (NB there are no prizes for this quiz – you just get to feel smug if you get it right. Answers at the bottom of the page.)


1. What is the ‘Guide to Learning the Knowledge of London’ also known as?

a/ The Gold Book
b/ The Black Book
c/ The Blue Book

2. How many routes (or ‘runs’) are in the Guide to Learning the Knowledge of London?

a/ 32
b/ 320
c/ 3,200

3. Aspirant taxi drivers must first learn routes within a six-mile radius of which London landmark?

a/ Big Ben
b/ Charing Cross
c/ Harrods

4. Most people who apply to become a licensed taxi driver study for the Knowledge exam using which vehicle?

a/ a taxi
b/ a scooter
c/ a bus

5. What is the minimum age requirement for anyone working as a London taxi driver?

a/ 18
b/ 21
c/ 25

And the bonus question:

6. Drivers can charge passengers a ‘soiling charge’ if the taxi must be taken out of service for cleaning. How much is it?

a/ £40
b/ £400
c/ £4,000


(Answers: 1.c; 2. c; 3.b; 4. b; 5. b; 6. a)

Find out more fantastic reasons to visit London.