The new test is to ensure better communications

The test has been introduced as a way of improving communications between passengers and drivers.

It has been backed by the body representing cabbies in the city and by taxi firms there.

People applying for a taxi licence are now required to sit the test they have basic English and Maths skills.

Before the test came in, anyone who had a driving licence and passed the checks could get a taxi licence Tom Lavender, Dragon Taxis

And it also tests the applicants basic knowledge of the city.

Tom Lavender who runs Dragon Taxis, one of the largest cab firms in Newport, said it would improve things for both customers and drivers.

"Before the test came in, anyone who had a driving licence and passed the checks could get a taxi licence," he said.

"But there was no way of knowing if that driver could understand where the passenger wanted to go to because he didn't have very good English skills or if he could give change from �10.

"At least with this test, those sorts of things will be covered and will ensure that passengers and drivers have a better experience."

Mr Lavender, manages 180 of the city's 500 or so taxis.

Language skills

"With the test, we can ensure that the drivers are able to understand where their passengers want to go and to make sure the passenger feels confident that the driver understands them," he added.

The scheme is supported by the Drivers Association of Newport.

Spokesman Nick Richardson said: "We are totally in favour of the test.

"We proposed it some months back and are completely supportive of it.

"It is important that the taxi driver is seen as professional and we want to improve customer and driver communications.

"It's not going to be like the London Knowledge which takes two years to pass - but the driver will need to show some basic knowledge of the area and their English and Maths skills."

Between 50 and 60 people apply for taxi licences in the city every year and all new applicants will have to sit the test in future.

Councillor Allan Morris, the chair of Newport Council's Licensing Committee said: "We are committed to ensuring the safety of the public and the highest standards of service.