Andorra Commits to New Taxi Sector Regulations with Unified Dispatch Deadline

The Andorran government has committed to drafting a new regulation for the taxi sector as part of a agreement with the Andorran Taxi Association (ATA) and the Interurban Taxi Drivers Association (ATI), aimed at unifying operations. This regulation, which will cover key operational matters, will only proceed if a single taxi dispatch centre and associated app are fully operational by 31 March.

Under the planned rules, taxi licence holders who transfer their authorisation after operating it for at least 10 years may continue working as professional drivers but will be barred from obtaining a new licence. A narrow exception applies for voluntary renunciations without succession. Licences remain freely transferable to qualifying parties, including direct family members (spouse, children, or parents), provided the recipient meets eligibility criteria and the transfer is registered in the Commerce and Industry Register within two months of approval.

In cases of the holder's death, proven incapacity, serious circumstances preventing service, or a final conviction leading to imprisonment, loss of driving licence, or professional disqualification, direct family members gain priority succession rights. They must apply within six months, satisfy all legal requirements, and secure departmental approval. If no family member steps forward in time, the licence reverts to the government.

Each taxi licence can link to up to two transport cards, with each card tied to one vehicle and allowing multiple professional drivers. Additional temporary cards may issue for high-demand periods or special events like sports, cultural gatherings, or conferences, limited to six months.

Professional driver credentials will require a suitable driving licence, passing aptitude and training tests, an official medical certificate, and permanent residency in Andorra.

Drivers must take at least one weekly rest day, from 6am to 6am the next day. The central dispatch will assign these equitably, prioritising efficiency, fair distribution, and fatigue prevention. During peak periods decreed by government, drivers can work rest days but must recover them within the year, notifying the dispatch centre in advance of changes. The sector must track all vehicle and driver activity via the unified platform, with only registered active operators permitted to work.