Plan ahead to stay safe on your festive journeys

With Christmas and New Year celebrations well underway, residents are being urged to make sure their journey home is safe and legal. 

Here are some important tips from Wirral Council’s licensing team:

✅ Know the difference

• Hackney carriages (taxis): Can be hailed on the street or hired at a taxi rank. Some companies also provide a telephone booking service.
• Private hire vehicles: MUST be pre-booked through a licensed operator – it is illegal to pick up passengers without a booking.

✅ Pre-book where possible

• Book your ride in advance with a licensed operator, especially during busy festive periods.
• Confirm the driver and vehicle details before you travel.

✅ Check it’s licensed

• Look for the council-issued vehicle licence plate and driver’s ID badge.
• NEVER get into a vehicle that isn’t licensed – it’s not worth the risk.
• Licensed drivers should be happy to confirm their licence details with you.

✅ Plan ahead

• Demand is high over Christmas and New Year, so allow extra time for your journey.
• NEVER accept lifts from strangers or un-booked private hire vehicles.

Visit the licensing team pages on Wirral Council’s website for more information