HOLBA secures regulation of pedicabs after a decade-long campaign

Wednesday 18 February 2026: Today marks a major milestone for the West End. After a decade of sustained campaigning and lobbying, HOLBA has secured the regulation of pedicab drivers and their vehicles, with Transport for London (TfL) implementing the regulatory framework as of today. 

From public awareness campaigns on the importance of clear standards to supporting the Pedicabs (London) Act through Parliament, our long‑running campaign has culminated in TfL introducing a new licensing and regulatory regime for pedicabs.  

Ros Morgan, Chief Executive, HOLBA, said: 
“HOLBA has campaigned for a decade to see pedicabs regulated, because people should be able to board a pedicab confident that it is roadworthy, that drivers are properly vetted and that fares are transparent. These regulations are a significant step forward for the nation’s capital - protecting passengers and enabling the pedicab sector to operate legitimately while strengthening London’s reputation as a world-class destination.” 

The new regulatory framework will raise standards across the sector, supporting responsible operators and ensuring a safer, better-managed environment for everyone who lives, works and visits the West End.

What’s changing: 

• Pedicab drivers and operators will, for the first time, need licences covering both themselves and their vehicles.
• Drivers must meet safety requirements, including criminal record checks and medical standards.
• Vehicles will need to meet road‑legal and safety standards, including a ban on loud external audio systems.
• Operators will need a London operating base and appropriate record‑keeping and safety processes.
• Maximum fares will be introduced to provide transparency and prevent excessive charging. 

There will be a transitional period requiring drivers to obtain a licence first, followed by vehicles. 

Timeline: 

• Drivers will be able to apply for licences from 9 March 2026.
• There will be a transition period for drivers and operators to obtain the necessary licences, with licensing and maximum fares becoming mandatory from 30 October 2026, and for vehicles from February 2027. 

We will continue to work with TfL, our members and responsible operators to deliver a safer, better‑managed and more welcoming West End. Thank you for your ongoing support in helping achieve this important milestone for London’s West End. 

Further information from TfL can be found here.