DBS Check (CRB)

Understanding the DBS Check for Your PCO Licence Application

Transport for London (TfL) requires all private hire driver applicants to undergo an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. This is a crucial part of the process to ensure applicants are safe, honest, and trustworthy — qualities essential for anyone working in the industry.

Once all necessary paperwork is completed, applicants will be directed to make a payment. After payment, the application is processed through Online DBS Disclosures, and the resulting information is used to finalise and submit your PCO Licence application to TfL.

Important note: If you have any serious criminal convictions, it is essential to disclose this information before we begin the DBS process. As the DBS fee is non-refundable, failing to declare convictions could result in a loss of payment if the application is later deemed ineligible.

DBS Application Process for PCO Licence Applicants

As part of the PCO Licence application process, all applicants must undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Transport for London (TfL) uses this check to assess whether an individual is fit and suitable to hold a licence. For your DBS certificate to be accepted, it must meet specific criteria relating to your identity and personal history.

Identity Requirements

To ensure your DBS certificate is valid, please make sure the following are correct and complete:

• Full Legal Names: Include all first names, surnames, and middle names exactly as shown on official ID documents.

• Parental Information: If any official ID includes your mother’s maiden name or your father’s name, ensure these are declared.

• Date of Birth: Your date of birth must be accurate and consistent across all documents. If discrepancies exist (e.g. between passport and driving licence), a paper application and an explanatory letter will be required.

• Gender: Ensure your gender is correctly stated. If you need a sensitive application process, the DBS provides a dedicated route for transgender applicants — see this guidance.

Previous Names and Spellings

• Declare all previous forenames and surnames, including any spelling variations or shortened versions used in official documents.

• Include any titles or name elements that appear on identification documents.

Address Verification

• The address used in your DBS application must be current at the time of application.

• TfL may request proof of residence to confirm that the address was accurate at the time of submission.

If you encounter issues such as mismatched dates of birth or name variations, contact the DBS provider (Online Disclosures) directly at ltph@onlinedisclosures.co.uk or by phone on 0845 251 5000 / 0115 969 4600 to request a paper form and resolve discrepancies.

Ensuring that your information is correct and up to date will help avoid delays in your application process.