Taxicard scheme

Reduced taxi fares for people who find it difficult to use public transport.

Last updated: 14 August 2023

Next review: 14 August 2024

If you have difficulty using public transport due to a serious, permanent mobility problem or are severely sight impaired, the Taxicard scheme could help you.

This London-wide scheme helps pay for journeys in licensed black taxis and private hire vehicles.

The scheme works in the following way:

  • You pay the first £3.20 of each trip – the flat fare
  • The council pays an additional amount up to a total of £9.00 towards your fare
  • If your fare goes above £12.20 (£3.20+£9.00) you’ll pay the difference in addition to the flat fare

Taxicard users can travel when and where they want, as long as the journey starts and finishes in the Greater London area.

More information about using your Taxicard.

Who qualifies for a Taxicard?

You can apply for a Taxicard from us if you live permanently in the London Borough of Waltham Forest. If you live outside of Waltham Forest you’ll have to apply through your local council.

You’ll automatically qualify if you:

You can also apply if you have long term mobility problems that prevent you from being able to use public transport. You may be invited to a mobility assessment with one of our Occupational Therapist Assistant.

You won’t qualify if you have a temporary condition, such as a broken leg.

How to apply for a Taxicard

To apply, download the Taxicard application form (PDF) and post to:

Taxicard
London Councils
59½ Southwark Street 
London  SE1 0AL

Download the Taxi card application guidance notes (PDF)

If you meet the automatic criteria you’ll need to provide proof of your entitlement.

This can be:

  • A copy of evidence of higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
  • Proof of your registration if you are registered as blind or severely sighted impaired within Waltham Forest

You’ll also need to provide proof that you are a permanent resident of the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

This can be:

  • a current council tax bill or;
  • tenancy agreement or;
  • utility bill dated within the last three months

You’ll also need to provide a passport-size photograph, with your name and the date printed on the back.

Replacing a lost Taxicard

To replace a lost Taxicard, download and complete the Taxicard replacement form (PDF) and return to:

Taxicard
London Councils
59½ Southwark Street 
London  SE1 0AL

Contacting the Taxicard service

The Taxicard service is operated by London Councils on behalf of all the London boroughs.

Please see their who to contact about Taxicard page for more details how to contact the service.

Help with completing online forms

For those without computers, you can use a self-service PC in any Waltham Forest Library

Staff there can help you to log in and create a MyAccount.