London's famous taxis (black cabs) can be: Booked in advance - by phone, app or website. Hailed on the street (when the yellow light is showing) Picked up from designated taxi ranks.

Yes, you can call for a taxi in London, though the method depends on whether you want a traditional "Black Cab" or a Private Hire Vehicle (like a minicab). For iconic Black Cabs, the most modern way to "call" one is via apps like Gett or Free Now, which allow you to hail a licensed taxi to your exact location just like a rideshare. You can also call traditional radio taxi dispatch services such as Computer Cab. If you prefer a minicab, you must book it in advance through a local office or an app like Uber or Bolt; it is actually illegal for a minicab to pick you up off the street without a prior booking. While you can still physically hail a Black Cab on the street if their yellow "TAXI" light is illuminated, using an app or calling ahead is often more convenient in residential areas or during peak hours when competition for cabs is high.