Reports of unlicensed taxi drivers at Bristol Airport usually involve touts soliciting passengers in or near the arrivals hall — offering rides without proper licensing or insurance. North Somerset and Bristol City Council license legitimate operators; unlicensed drivers bypass those checks.
How to stay safe
- Use the official hackney rank outside the terminal for walk-up trips
- Pre-book licensed private hire and meet your driver at the signed minicab zone
- Confirm the driver matches your booking reference before getting in
- Never accept a ride from someone who approaches you unsolicited inside the terminal
- Pay through official booking channels — keep email confirmation
Why licensing matters
Licensed drivers undergo background checks and vehicle inspections. Insurance covers you as a passenger. Fixed pre-booked fares also reduce dispute risk compared with informal cash deals.
Book licensed transfers
Reserve a licensed Bristol Airport taxi with Airport Transfers Taxi online or on +44 20 8432 0829. Your confirmation includes pickup instructions for the authorised BRS private hire area.