Highest number of taxi drivers recorded in 10 years

The taxi sector in Ireland has seen a record number of licenses issued last year, with 1,893 new drivers added, bringing the total to 27,891. This comes as the National Transport Authority (NTA) highlights growing interest from individuals wanting to join the industry. Kevin O'Brien, Director of Transport Regulation at the NTA, noted the robust demand and the sector's potential, adding that recent changes to the driver entry test have been implemented to update the process.

The authority has published a snapshot of the taxi sector based on its latest Small Public Service Vehicle Bulletin and consumer research, revealing improvements in various areas. There has been a significant rise in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and electric cars operating as taxis nationwide. Currently, 4,781 wheelchair-accessible vehicles are in operation, making up 23% of the Small Public Service Vehicle (SPSV) fleet and 26% of the taxi and hackney fleet.

NTA data shows that 76% of consumers found it easy to get a taxi on their most recent journey, with the number of those describing the experience as "very easy" increasing to 34%. Among wheelchair users, this figure stands at 56%. The NTA Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Grant Scheme has supported this growth, issuing 519 grants last year.

While over 1,000 passenger complaints were made last year, more than half were related to overcharging. Many drivers offered refunds, and drivers are advised to inform passengers of the maximum charge and to keep a receipt. Electric vehicle usage in the sector has also increased, with 3,306 fully electric Small Public Service Vehicles (SPSVs) operating as of the end of 2025, marking a 25% increase from the previous year.

Drivers reported average weekly savings of €95 in running costs with electric vehicles, and passenger safety remains high, with 97% feeling safe waiting at a taxi rank and 89% feeling safe hailing a taxi on the street.

The NTA will use this information to inform the implementation of the SPSV Regulation Action Plan from 2026 to 2028, including public consultations on fleet decarbonisation and simplifying the process for providing taxi services in rural areas.