TfL offers Knowledge of London candidates a year of free Santander Cycles rides

Transport for London (TfL) is opening up Santander Cycle access to Knowledge of London candidates while they prepare for their Knowledge test by offering free annual subscriptions that provide unlimited 60‑minute rides across the capital. 

From 20 June, candidates will be able to request use of the cycle hire scheme, providing a cost‑effective alternative to travelling by car or motorcycle during their studies. With more than 1,300 candidates currently working towards the Knowledge, the new offer aims to reduce the cost of training, while also helping candidates build practical experience on the roads by learning central London’s road network more efficiently. 

David Eddington, Head of Cycle Hire at TfL, said: "Becoming a licensed London taxi driver requires an incredible level of dedication and commitment, and we want to make that journey as accessible as possible. By offering free access to Santander Cycles, we’re giving Knowledge students a flexible, affordable way to get out on the road and build the real-world experience they need. 

"This initiative not only helps reduce the costs associated with training but also supports candidates in navigating London more efficiently as they learn the capital’s roads. We’re seeing growing interest in the Knowledge, and by making it easier and more affordable to get out on the road, we want to encourage even more people to take the first step towards becoming a licensed taxi driver." 

Steve McNamara, General Secretary at The Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association, said: "This is a fantastic initiative that will be welcomed by everyone in the Knowledge community. The process of learning every street, building, restaurant, club, pub, theatre, hospital and place of public interest is arduous, costly and very time consuming, this scheme will enable students to get around quickly, easily and for free at various times in their journey to becoming a London Cabbie." 

Peter Laszlo, Black Cab driver who passed The Knowledge last year: "I began my study for The Knowledge using Santander Cycles to complete my first 80 runs so this is a fantastic new benefit. Cycling offers clear advantages, it allows access to routes restricted to taxis, and the flexibility to push through temporary road closures. It also makes ‘pointing’ easier, as the bike can be taken onto the pavement. On top of that, it’s a great way to stay fit while learning the Knowledge."

The initiative has been developed through collaboration between TfL’s Cycle Hire and Licensing and Regulation teams, and forms part of wider efforts to support the next generation of licensed taxi drivers. Interest in the Knowledge of London continues to grow, with applications rising by nearly 70 per cent in recent years and reaching their highest level in a decade. The Knowledge remains the world’s most respected taxi driver qualification, and a symbol of dedication and service to Londoners. Recent improvements have also made the process more accessible and efficient, with the average time to complete reduced to around three years, helping more people take up a career in the licensed taxi trade.