A new smartphone app has been launched today which allows taxi users to check their drivers.

The app was devised by the National Transport Authority (NTA).

It allows a passenger to check the licence details of both the vehicle and the driver and to see an ID photo of the authorised driver.

The passenger is then able to forward these details (minus the photo) to a friend - all of which, the NTA says. will reassure taxi customers that they are travelling safely, and that there is a record of their trip.

"More confidence in the taxi sector"

Public and Commuter Transport Minister Alan Kelly launched the app.

"We are using technology to give consumers more confidence in the taxi sector and make the public feel safer when travelling in a taxi" he said.

"For drivers it will promote greater professionalism and accountability and the data is already public record but being made accessible to the public in an easy way" he added.

All a consumer has to do is launch it on their phone, and then input one of the following:

Ordinary vehicle registration number
Vehicle licence number – displayed on roof-sign and on door signs
Driver licence number (displayed on the ID card on the dashboard of the vehicle); or
Scan the QR code on the vehicle which is located on a disc on both the front and rear windscreens

On first use, consumers will be asked to register their own contact details, to enable sending a quick message to a friend from a cab, and to assist in following up any subsequent reports they may have.