CCTV in private hire vehicles

A camera in the car can calm tempers and settle arguments. The handbook treats CCTV as an optional safety measure with one firm rule: if there is a camera, there must be a sign. This guide covers what the handbook says and the questions it leaves open.

Why the handbook mentions it

Section 4 says that installing CCTV cameras in a vehicle can reduce threats and violence against drivers. Signs in the vehicle telling passengers that CCTV is used may also help prevent aggressive or violent behaviour. It adds that a video recording can be useful evidence when there is a dispute with a passenger.

Cost and insurance

The handbook says you can buy a camera or rent one. It admits this is an extra cost, but says having a camera may reduce insurance premiums, because a recording can be useful evidence. "May" is the operative word. Ask your insurer directly before you assume a saving. If you are working out your costs, enter any camera cost in our cost per mile calculator using your own quote.

The signage rule

The handbook says the Information Commissioner's CCTV Code of Practice requires signage to be displayed where CCTV is in operation. TfL requires all PHVs fitted with a CCTV system to display its sign somewhere that is easy for passengers to see.

• The vehicle owner can decide where to put the sign.
• It must not block the driver's view.
• It must be as visible as possible to passengers as they enter the vehicle and while they travel in it.

The handbook shows the required TfL sign as a picture. We do not reproduce it. Use the official version from TfL.

In the daily vehicle check

The vehicle safety list in section 7 includes a line for the passenger compartment: CCTV signage is displayed in a prominent position, and this is only required where CCTV is installed. Add it to your daily routine. Our daily vehicle check guide has the full list.

Owner or driver?

The handbook speaks of the vehicle owner deciding signage placement. If you drive a vehicle you do not own, ask the owner whether it has a camera and whether the sign is in place. A missing sign on a camera-equipped vehicle is not a detail to leave to chance.

Privacy and passengers

A camera records people. The handbook mentions the Information Commissioner's Code of Practice only for the signage point. It does not set out how long recordings may be stored, who may view them or how passengers can ask for a copy. We cannot answer those, and we do not guess. The Information Commissioner's Office publishes the CCTV guidance; read it if you own or operate a camera. Separately, the handbook tells you never to use a passenger's contact details for anything but the booked journey. See professional conduct with passengers for the wider point on personal information.

Camera and incidents

If something happens, a recording may be useful, but it does not replace reporting. The handbook says to tell your operator, to call the police if needed, and to record incidents, including near misses. Our incident checklist shows what details to write down.

What the handbook does not say

It does not say CCTV is mandatory, which cameras are approved, where to mount them, or whether audio may be recorded. It does not cover how to give footage to the police or TfL. Check TfL and the ICO before you buy a system. For licensing costs, which are separate, see the fees overview.

Where this comes from

Handbook section 4 (CCTV cameras) and section 7 (Vehicle safety; Passenger compartment), plus the glossary entry for the Information Commissioner's CCTV Code of Practice. Checked on 2 October 2026.

CCTV signs are separate from TfL's mandatory PHV signage. See PHV signage from 4 January 2027.