13/05/2023
Embarking on a career as a taxi driver in Halifax, Nova Scotia, offers a unique opportunity to navigate the city, meet diverse people, and provide an essential service. However, like any professional driving role, it comes with a stringent set of requirements designed to ensure public safety and service quality. Obtaining your permanent taxi or limousine driver’s licence in Halifax is a detailed process, but with the right guidance, you can confidently navigate each stage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every necessary step, from initial language assessments to final licence issuance, ensuring you have all the information needed to get behind the wheel.
The Path to Your Taxi Driver's Licence in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Becoming a licensed taxi or limousine driver in Halifax requires careful adherence to the regulations set forth by the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM). The process is designed to ensure all drivers are competent, reliable, and safe. Before you even begin, if you have any concerns regarding your driver abstract or criminal record report, it is highly advisable to contact the Taxi Office via email or by dialling 311. Addressing these potential issues proactively can save you time and effort later in the application process.
Step One: English Language Proficiency Assessment
The first crucial step on your journey is to demonstrate your English language proficiency. As a taxi driver, effective communication with passengers and emergency services is paramount. You will need to successfully complete an English language proficiency test that is equivalent to a minimum of a level 5 in the Canadian Language Benchmarks. This standard ensures you possess the necessary communication skills for the role. Several institutions offer these tests; for instance, the East Coast Language College can be contacted at 902.491.1526 for testing options.
Step Two: Comprehensive Background Checks
Public trust and safety are at the core of taxi services, which necessitates thorough background checks. This step is critical and often the most time-consuming, so planning ahead is essential.
Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check
You must complete a Criminal Record Check (CRC) which includes a Vulnerable Sector Check. This specific check is vital as it identifies any past offences that might pose a risk to vulnerable individuals, a key consideration for drivers transporting the public. This process typically takes approximately 10 business days for the results to be received by mail. It is imperative to allow ample time for this, as the original copy must be included with your application paperwork. We recommend completing this process at least 20 business days prior to submitting your application. Receipts for these checks will generally not be accepted for initial applications.
For renewals, receipts may only be accepted if approved by the Licensing Authority, and it's advised to complete this at least 20 business days before your current licence expires.
CRC forms can be completed in person at 1975 Gottingen Street, Halifax-Headquarters, between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Be aware that Halifax Regional Police may contact you for fingerprinting if required; if you've needed fingerprints for previous CRCs, you will always need them for future checks. It's important to note that online sites for CRCs are generally not recommended as they often do not include the necessary vulnerable sector check. The cost for this check is $50. Your paperwork must be valid within 30 days when you submit your complete application package.
Child Abuse Registry Check
In addition to the CRC, a Child Abuse Registry Check is mandatory. This ensures that individuals working with the public, especially those who might transport children, do not have a history of child abuse. There are two convenient ways to request this check:
- Online Application: Follow the provided link to apply online. This method usually takes about two weeks to process, so it should be completed concurrently with your Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Mail Application: You can also complete an application form found under 'Other Ways to Apply' via the provided link and send it by mail. This search typically takes ten business days to process.
The completed results will be sent to you directly by mail from the Department of Community Services. There is no fee for the Child Abuse Registry Check.
Step Three: Application Submission at a Municipal Customer Service Centre
Once your background checks are underway and you have gathered all necessary documents, the next step is to visit a Municipal Customer Service Centre to submit your application package. Ensure all documents are current within 30 days of submission. The required items include:
- A completed Driver Application form (available in PDF format).
- Your original Criminal Record/Vulnerable Sector Check results.
- Your original Child Abuse Registry Check results.
- A Driver’s (Client Use) Abstract.
- Two recent passport-sized photos, dated and stamped within 30 days.
- Your English language test results.
- Your Nova Scotia driver’s licence (minimum Class 4).
There is an application fee of $100 payable at this stage. Applications typically take approximately five business days to process. The Taxi Office will contact you once your application has been processed and approved. Upon approval, you can proceed to the next step: registering for the mandatory training and testing programme.
Step Four: Mandatory HRM Training and Exam Programme
After your initial application is approved, HRM staff will contact you with details for completing the Mandatory HRM Training and Exam programme, which is now conveniently conducted online.
Training Details
HRM staff will set up a username and password for you in the dedicated training portal and provide you with the necessary link and information to access the modules. This training typically takes between one to two hours to complete, but offers the flexibility to be started and stopped at your convenience. Upon successful completion, a certificate will be made available to you within the training portal. You will need to submit this certificate to the HRM Licensing Office when requested. The portal will also guide you on how to book your exam.
There is no cost associated with taking the training programme.
Exam Details
The final hurdle is the exam, which is also taken online through an eProctor service. As this is a proctored (supervised) exam, it must be scheduled and paid for in advance. Exam times are flexible, with options available in both the morning and evening to accommodate various schedules. You will need a laptop or computer equipped with a webcam or built-in camera to take the exam. To pass, you must achieve a score of 70 percent or above. The cost for each exam attempt is $35 plus tax, payable through the exam portal.
If you do not pass the exam on your first attempt, you are permitted a second try. However, if you fail after the second attempt, you will be required to retake and pass the entire training programme before you can attempt the exam again. Remember, each exam attempt incurs the $35 plus tax fee.
Step Five: Licence Issuance
Once you have successfully passed the exam, the HRM Licensing Authority will be automatically notified of your passing grade. A staff member will then reach out to you to confirm that your licence will be issued and to discuss any final next steps. Congratulations – you are now on the verge of becoming a fully licensed taxi driver in Halifax!
Maintaining Your Taxi Driving Credentials: Renewals
Holding a taxi driver's licence is an ongoing commitment, requiring periodic renewals to ensure all drivers continue to meet the required standards.
Renewal Requirements for Permanent Driver’s Licence
Your permanent driver’s licence must be renewed every two years. The renewal process requires you to apply in person at a Municipal Customer Service Centre. Renewal applications typically take five business days to process. If any additional documents are needed, the taxi office will contact you. Your renewed licence will be sent to you via Canada Post.
When renewing, ensure you bring your current Taxi/Limo Driver’s Licence along with the following documents, all current within 30 days:
- Criminal Record / Vulnerable Sector Check results.
- Child Abuse Registry Check results.
- Your Nova Scotia Provincial Driver’s Licence (minimum Class 4).
- A “client use” Nova Scotia Drivers Abstract.
- Two passport photos (2”x 2”), dated and stamped.
The renewal fee for a driver's licence is $100.
Renewal Requirements for Taxi/Limo Owner’s Licence
If you hold an owner's licence, it must be renewed annually. These applications also take five business days to process. You must obtain and submit all required documents to any Municipal Customer Service Centre. Remember to bring your current Taxi/Limo Owner's Licence with you.
Required documents for owner's licence renewal:
- Meter Calibration Slip (must be dated, signed, and current within 30 days).
- Copy of Permanent Vehicle Registration Permit (original must be in the vehicle during inspection).
- Copy of Motor Vehicle Inspection Certificate (original must be in the vehicle during inspection), valid for at least 30 days past your taxi inspection date.
- Insurance Letter, providing proof of insurance for the vehicle.
- Company Letter or Registry of Joint Stocks Certificate, indicating the entity the vehicle operates under.
- The owner licence holder must be present. If the vehicle is leased, a copy of the lease agreement must be provided.
- Child Abuse Registry Check results.
If you are an owner who does not hold a taxi/limo driver’s licence, you must also provide a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector and Child Abuse Registry Check results, current within 30 days of your application. The renewal fee for an owner's licence is $50.
Taxi/Limo Vehicle Inspections
Regular vehicle inspections are a critical component of ensuring safety and compliance for all licensed taxis and limousines in Halifax. The taxi office will contact you to schedule your vehicle inspection appointment, which typically takes place at 7 Mellor Avenue in Burnside. When you arrive for your appointment, proceed directly to the ramp at the rear of the building; do not check in at the front desk. It's crucial to arrive 10 minutes early; failure to do so may result in a cancelled appointment.
Upon arrival, please remain in your vehicle until an Inspection Officer directs you to the ramp. Before the inspection begins, ensure all seatbelts are fastened, and that windshield wipers, windows, locks, and the emergency brake are in good working condition. The inspection is thorough, covering both the interior and exterior of the vehicle, as well as its operational components. Here's a detailed list of items that will be inspected:
- Roof light (for taxis)
- Interior condition and cleanliness
- Headlights and signal lights
- Front and back brake lights
- Body condition (paint, holes, and rust)
- Hotel standard sticker (if applicable)
- Safety inspection and certificate
- Vehicle registration and licence plate light
- Taxi metre (for taxis)
- Horn and windshield condition
- Operation of windows, doors, handles, and locks
- Emergency brake functionality
- Tyres and wheel covers (hub caps)
- Operation and cleanliness of the boot/trunk
- Seatbelts and interior lights
- Wipers and rear light
Understanding Taxi and Transportation Network Company (TNC) Licences in HRM
The regulatory framework for for-hire transportation in Halifax is comprehensive, covering various types of drivers and operators.
Do Taxi Drivers Have to Be Licensed?
Yes, all taxi drivers, TNC drivers, taxi brokers, independent brokers, and transportation network companies (TNCs) must be licensed to operate within the municipality of Halifax.
What is a Taxi Driver?
A licensed taxi driver is authorised to operate a vehicle for hire, limousine, or accessible taxi within the municipality. Such a driver is eligible to work for a licensed owner operating as an independent broker or through dispatch from a taxi brokerage.
What is an Owner's Licence?
An owner's licence is required for any vehicle intended to be used as a vehicle for hire. This licence is issued to the owner of the vehicle as indicated on the registration permit from NS Motor Vehicles. For a vehicle to operate within the municipality, the owner must hold both an Owner's licence and a driver's licence issued by HRM.
What is a TNC Driver?
A TNC driver is an individual who receives dispatched calls from a Transportation Network Company, such as Uber, through an online platform. These drivers offer transportation for passengers in exchange for compensation. Applications to become a TNC driver are managed directly by the respective TNC, not by HRM.
What is a TNC?
TNC stands for Transportation Network Company. These companies facilitate prearranged transportation services for compensation within the Municipality. They utilise software, applications, telecommunications platforms, or digital networks to connect passengers with TNC Drivers. Currently, Uber Canada Inc. is an approved TNC operating in HRM.
What is a Taxi Broker or Independent Broker?
A broker is a person or company that provides dispatch services to taxis and accessible taxis within HRM. The municipality currently has five approved brokers: Bobs Taxi, Casino Taxi, Satellite Taxi, Yellow Cab, and Extra Care - Accessible Service.
An independent broker, on the other hand, is an individual who holds both a taxi owner's licence and a driver's licence, but does not subscribe to a dispatch service provided by a larger brokerage. This category includes all independent taxi owners, whether they operate a single vehicle or manage a fleet.
Licensing Requirements for Brokers, Independent Brokers, and TNCs
Brokers, independent brokers, and TNCs are required to be licensed as such and pay an annual licensing fee. Upon initial application, they must enter into a Data Share Agreement and provide the Licensing Authority with quarterly reporting of trip data. Information on how to apply as a Taxi Broker or Independent Broker can be found on their respective information pages, as can information for applying as a TNC.
For convenience, you can create free customer and business accounts on the Customer Portal. Once created, you can apply for the appropriate licence by selecting the correct option and uploading the required documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum English language proficiency level required?
You must successfully complete an English language proficiency test equivalent to a minimum of a level 5 in the Canadian Language Benchmarks.
How long does the Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check take?
This process can take approximately 10 business days to receive the results by mail. It is recommended to complete this at least 20 business days prior to submitting your application.
Is there a fee for the Child Abuse Registry Check?
No, there is no fee for the Child Abuse Registry Check.
What documents need to be current within 30 days when submitting my application?
Your Criminal Record/Vulnerable Sector check, Child Abuse Registry check results, Driver’s (Client Use) Abstract, and passport-sized photos must all be current within 30 days of submission.
What is the application fee for a permanent driver's licence?
The application fee is $100.
How long does it take for the application to be processed?
Applications typically take approximately five business days to process.
What is the cost of the HRM exam?
The exam costs $35 plus tax for each attempt.
What happens if I fail the HRM exam?
You can take the exam a second time. If you fail after the second attempt, you will need to retake and pass the mandatory training programme before you can attempt the exam again.
How often do I need to renew my permanent driver's licence?
A permanent driver’s licence must be renewed every two years.
How often do I need to renew my owner's licence?
An owner’s licence must be renewed every year.
Where do vehicle inspections take place?
Vehicle inspections take place at 7 Mellor Avenue in Burnside. You should drive to the rear of the building to the ramp at your appointment time.
What happens if I am late for my vehicle inspection?
Failure to appear on time (at least 10 minutes early) may result in a cancelled appointment.
Who do I contact for general inquiries about taxi and limousine services?
For general inquiries, by-law information, complaints, or to reschedule inspections, you can contact 311 by phone, or reach out to Municipal Taxi and Limousine Services via fax at 902.490.6142 or by mail at P.O. Box 1749, Halifax, NS B3J 3A5.
Summary of Costs and Key Timelines
To help you plan your application, here's a summary of the associated costs and key processing timelines:
| Item/Process | Cost (CAD) | Estimated Processing/Validity Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language Test | Varies by provider | Equivalent to CLB Level 5 minimum | |
| Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector | $50 | ~10 business days (receipt by mail) | Paperwork must be valid within 30 days when submitted |
| Child Abuse Registry Check | No Fee | ~2 weeks (online) / ~10 business days (mail) | Results sent by mail from Dept. of Community Services |
| Driver Application Fee | $100 | ~5 business days (application processing) | Paid at Municipal Customer Service Centre |
| Mandatory HRM Training Programme | No Cost | ~1-2 hours | Online, flexible completion |
| HRM Exam | $35 + tx (per attempt) | Online, proctored; 70% to pass; 2 attempts before retraining | |
| Permanent Driver's Licence Renewal | $100 | Every two years (~5 business days processing) | Apply in person at Municipal Customer Service Centre |
| Owner's Licence Renewal | $50 | Every year (~5 business days processing) | Apply in person at Municipal Customer Service Centre |
Becoming a licensed taxi driver in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a rewarding career choice that contributes significantly to the city's transport infrastructure. By carefully following these steps, understanding the requirements, and preparing diligently for each stage, you can confidently achieve your goal and join the ranks of professional drivers serving the community. Remember to keep all your documents meticulously organised and be proactive in addressing any potential concerns to ensure a smooth application process.
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