Bradford Taxi Driver Fined After Illegally Picking Up Passengers in York

A Bradford-based private hire taxi driver has been fined after breaching his licence conditions by picking up passengers in York without a prior booking. Zaid Saleem, 58, who holds private hire licences with Wolverhampton and Leeds Councils, was caught during an enforcement operation near York Racecourse on May 25, 2024.

Saleem, a driver for Drive Private Hire, accepted a £10 fare from individuals who were undercover licensing officers. According to City of York Council, private hire drivers must only pick up passengers who have pre-booked through an operator. By taking the fare without a booking, Saleem was operating outside the terms of his licence and without valid insurance for the journey. This is a significant issue, as unlicensed drivers or those violating regulations can create unsafe conditions for passengers and fellow drivers, as highlighted in a similar case of an unlicensed driver continuing to operate despite having their licence revoked.

Saleem pleaded guilty to unlawfully plying for hire at York Magistrates' Court on April 24, 2025. He was fined £90, ordered to pay a £36 victim surcharge, and £3,200 in prosecution costs.

City of York Council has informed Leeds and Wolverhampton Councils so they can review Saleem’s status as a 'fit and proper' licensed driver. Cllr Jenny Kent, executive member for environment, stated:

"If an unlicensed driver picks up a customer without a prior and formal booking they are not insured for the journey and are acting illegally."
Cllr Jenny Kent further added:
"It is also important that those drivers who pay for the entitlement and license to pick up fares are protected from being undercut by those who do not."