Unlicensed driver convicted following school transport compliance check

An unlicensed taxi driver has been convicted following an investigation by Carmarthenshire County Council's Licensing Service.

Mr Derrick Lewis was convicted at Llanelli Magistrates' Court on 4 September 2026 after conveying children on a school run in a licensed private hire vehicle on 9 February 2026, despite not holding the required Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Dual Driver's Licence.

The offence came to light when officers from the Council's Licensing and School Transport teams were carrying out compliance checks at Ysgol Heol Goffa, Llanelli. During the inspection, officers identified that Mr Lewis was driving a licensed private hire vehicle while not being licensed to do so.

Mr Lewis did not attend court and the case was proven in his absence.

The Magistrates sentenced Mr Lewis to pay a fine of £660, prosecution costs of £1,778.50 and a victim surcharge of £264, totalling £2,702.50. The amount is payable within 28 days.

Carmarthenshire County Cabinet Member with responsibility for enforcement, Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen, said:

The safety and wellbeing of pupils travelling to and from school is of paramount importance. Licensed drivers are required to meet strict standards and undergo the necessary checks to ensure they are suitable to transport members of the public, including children.

This prosecution demonstrates the Council's commitment to enforcing licensing legislation and taking appropriate action where individuals operate outside the law. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure school transport services remain safe, reliable and compliant."