UPDATE
Since the newly created Cornwall Council have been in charge this page has pretty much been made void and useless.
The PHV's that could be distinguished by their red plates have now white plates ( Yes, the same colour as Hackney's , go figure ) and now do not need to show red door signs so even I have difficulty in decided what is what.
Please, if you have any difficulty is distinguishing what is and what is not a taxi contact Cornwall Council and ask them, "What the hell is going on?.
There are two types of vehicle that carry passengers in the Hackney Carriage (Taxi) and Private Hire industry.
Hackney Carriage (TAXI)
These are ordinary saloon cars, M.P.V.s or London style taxis carrying a WHITE PLATE on the rear and a roof light saying "TAXI".
These TAXIS can be found on any TAXI Rank, can be hailed / flagged down in the street.
Must have a sealed and tested meter.
Fares are set by the local council.
Driver must wear a badge.
Private Hire Vehicles
These are saloon cars or M.P.V's carrying a RED PLATE on the rear and RED DOOR SIGNS.
They are not TAXIS.
These can only be booked by telephone through their firm's office and cannot be hailed / flagged down on the street or approached in the street at anytime.
Fares are not set by the council, however many have installed meter's in the car.
Drivers must wear a badge.
Customers please note,,,,,,, if you flag down a Private Hire Vehicle and the driver is stupid enough or greedy enough to stop and take you, you are not insured in the event of an accident.