Whether you’re planning to become a private hire driver in London or have decided to join a platform like Uber, you’ll need to obtain a Public Carriage Office (PCO) Licence.
Although this doesn’t need to be difficult, understanding what you’re doing from the outset will make the process a lot easier.
In this guide, you’ll learn about how to apply for your PCO Licence, as well as eligibility requirements and maintaining your license once it’s been granted.
What Is a PCO Licence?
A PCO Licence, also known as a Private Hire Driver Licence, is issued by Transport for London (TfL).
It is a requirement for people who want to legally operate private hire vehicles (PHVs) throughout London and beyond and is designed to maintain passenger safety and ensure drivers operate to a professional standard.
Without a PCO Licence, you cannot drive vehicles for minicab services, chauffeur companies, or app-based platforms in London.
Key Requirements to Apply
To be eligible to apply for a PCO License, you must:
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- Be at least 21 years of age.
- Have the right to work in the UK.
- Have had a UK driving licence for at least 3 years.
- Have a valid Criminal Record Check (DBS).
- Complete a medical examination.
- Complete a topographical skills assessment.
- Pass an English language test.
- Be able to provide proof of address within the last 3 months.
Health and Medical Checks
You will need to undergo a medical assessment during your application. This will allow your GP to confirm you meet DVLA Group 2 medical standards.
During your evaluation, you will be asked questions about the following health concerns and more:
- Cardiovascular
- Neurological
- Vision
- Psychiatric
- Endocrine system
- Musculoskeletal
Although a decision will be made by your GP, your application may be impacted by the following medical conditions:
- Heart issues
- Epilepsy
- Vision impairment
- Neurological disorders
- Physical disabilities
- Progressive degenerative illnesses
- Insulin-dependent diabetes
- A history of alcohol or drug abuse
- A history of mental illness
Background Checks
Background checks will be conducted to confirm you are of good character and can safely transport members of the public.
This will include a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to search for spent or unspent convictions, warnings and cautions, reprimands and any other relevant police information.
You will also need proof of your right to work in the UK.
How to Apply for Your PCO Licence
You can make the PCO Licence application process a lot smoother by ensuring you have the correct documents ahead of time. For peace of mind, your checklist should include:
- Completed PCO Licence application form
- Valid passport or identity documents
- Proof of right to work in the UK
- Driving licence
- Medical assessment
- DBS certificate
- Proof of English language proficiency
Completing the Online Application
The PCO Licence application is primarily completed online and should be done via the official Transport for London website.
This service allows you to create an account and track your application process through each step.
It’s important to note that third-party fast-track services are fraudulent and should not be engaged with.
Booking and Completing Tests
You will need to undertake a couple of tests during the PCO Licence application process. The first is a topographical skills test, which is used to ensure you can navigate London efficiently.
This includes route planning, map reading, and identifying landmarks. The second is an English language proficiency test, which ensures you can communicate with passengers effectively.
This can be achieved by completing a Transport for London-approved English test, or with pre-earned qualifications, such as GCSE English.
How Much Does a PCO Licence Cost?
It’s important to plan for costs before starting your PCO Licence application. This will help you avoid delays and unexpected fees.
Although costs may vary, the following is a list of typical fees you can expect to pay:
- Licence Application Fee (Non-Refundable): £124
- DBS Disclosure Application: £52 (online)
- Grant of Licence Fee: £186
- Post Office Check and Send: £7.15
- Speaking and Listening Assessment: £36
- Topographical Assessment: £36
- Safety, Equality, and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) Assessment: £36
- Medical Examination: GP Dependent
Complications and Avoiding Delays
Incomplete Applications
Missing or incorrect information can cause delays in your application process. Therefore, you should ensure you have all the necessary documents to meet Transport for London’s requirements before you start.
Rejections and Appeals
If your application is rejected, you will be provided with details about why. Some of these problems can be resolved, such as incomplete forms and failed tests, which can then be resubmitted or appealed.
Scheduling Tests and Appointments
One of the biggest holdups for applicants is the availability of tests and appointments, including medical assessments, DBS checks, English language tests, and topographical examinations. Most of these delays can be avoided by booking as early as possible.
Maintaining Your PCO Licence
Renewal Process
Your PCO Licence will be valid for 3 years and must be renewed once expired. Transport for London will send you a renewal reminder approximately 4-6 weeks before the deadline and most of the process can be completed online.
The renewal process may require the following elements:
- A renewal application form
- Signed declarations
- New application and licence fees
- A new medical check
- An updated DBS check
Adherence to Regulations
Once you’ve received your PCO Licence, it’s important to adhere to the regulations set by Transport for London. This includes maintaining passenger safety and reporting any health or legal status changes. Failure to do so can result in fines or licence removal.
Insurance and Vehicles
If you are using your own PCO Licenced vehicle, you need to ensure it is covered by Private Hire Insurance, and any policy you obtain must cover carrying passengers for “hire & reward”.
When selecting an insurance policy, it’s important to understand the three levels of cover available to you and the implications of each should you need to make a claim:
- Full Comprehensive: Covers everything and is the most expensive.
- Third Party, Fire, and Theft: Covers your customers and third-party vehicles from damage, fire, and theft. You will pay for any repairs to your own vehicle.
- Third Party Only: Covers third-party vehicles from damage only. You will pay for any repairs to your own vehicle.
You should also consider whether your insurance policy covers replacement vehicles. This will ensure you can continue to work if your primary vehicle breaks down or requires repairs.
FAQs
Can I Work While My Application Is Processed?
No. You must wait until your PCO Licence has been approved before starting work.
How Long Does a PCO Licence Application Take?
Once you’ve completed the PCO application process, it will usually take up to 16 weeks for approval to be confirmed. However, this can vary depending on how busy organisations are, the time of year, and if there are any delays due to missing information or failed tests.
What Happens If I Fail a Test?
If you fail topographical skills or English language tests, you can retake them. However, you should expect to incur additional fees to do so. To avoid this situation, you should prepare well in advance of the test and use practice materials or courses to improve your chances of success on the first attempt.
What Happened If My PCO Application Is Refused?
If your application is refused, you will be notified and given reasons why. In many cases, you will have a right to appeal or reapply.
