1897day.year
London becomes the world's first city to host licensed taxicabs.
London becomes the world's first city to license taxicabs, establishing a regulated taxi service.
In 1897, London authorities introduced licenses for taxicabs, formalizing what had been a loosely regulated hackney carriage trade. The new system required drivers to pass tests on routes and regulations, ensuring passenger safety and reliability. Color-coded plates and official badges distinguished licensed vehicles, transforming urban mobility and serving as a model for cities worldwide. This move professionalized taxi driving, improved service quality, and laid the groundwork for modern taxi industries across the globe.
1897
taxicabs