PCO Licence Application

What is a PCO Licence?

The PCO (Public Carriage Office) Licence, issued by Transport for London (TfL), is a mandatory certification for anyone wishing to work as a private hire driver in the capital. This licence is essential for legal operation and employment in the industry, and driving without one can result in significant fines. Once granted, a PCO Licence is valid for three years and can be renewed upon expiry. Holding a valid licence allows drivers to work with companies such as Uber, Addison Lee, and local minicab firms. It is also required for any professional chauffeuring services involving passenger transport. For those looking to begin the application process, professional guidance from experienced providers like LPLC can help ensure a smooth and compliant start.

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PCO LICENCE APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

You must be at least 21 years of age at the time of applying. There is no upper age limit, as long as you meet the other licensing requirements.
You must hold a full DVLA, Northern Ireland, or other EEA state driving license that’s three years or older.
You must have the right to live and work in the UK
You must be of good character. To establish this you will be required to undertake an ‘enhanced’ criminal records check from DBS through our service provider – GBGroup
You must be medically fit which means meeting the DVLA Group 2 standards. In most cases, this will mean that you will have to undergo a medical examination with someone who has access to your full medical history
You will need to undertake a Topographical & SERU Test with TfL Plus a Speaking & Listening Assessment too

PCO LICENCE APPLICATION CHECKLIST:

DVLA or EU driving license (3 years or older)
Bank statement or utility bill (no older than 3 months)
Passport or EU id Card
Valid Passport/Visa Residency status/Biometric card (if required)
Glasses prescription (if necessary)
National Insurance Number.

PCO LICENCE APPLICATION STEPS....

Start Your PCO Journey

Applicants looking to begin their PCO Licence journey can book an appointment to visit a dedicated centre located in Barking (IG11 8BB). Attending an in-person session provides the opportunity to receive professional guidance and support with each step of the application process.

Topographical Test Training

Complete around 2-3 hours of Topographical training with experienced trainers. They will show you the exact format and outline of the test and precisely how to answer each question.

Medical Check

Your NHS GP will complete your TPH 204 medical form. The GP will check your medical history and ensure your fit to drive.

Documentation and Application Submission

At the conclusion of the session, applicants typically meet with a PCO Licence specialist to complete all required paperwork and initiate their DBS check. Guidance is provided on the next steps in the process, and support is offered to ensure all documentation is correctly submitted to TfL for review. This hands-on approach helps streamline the application and reduce the risk of delays.

Complete your Topographical Test

After around 4 weeks from the date we submit your application, TFL will invite you to their offices to complete the Topographical & SERU Exam + Speaking and Listening test. You'll be with them for around 3 hours to complete all the tests !

Receive your Licence and Start Working !

After you have successfully passed your Topographical Test, SERU Exam, Speaking & Listening Test, TFL will issue your PCO Licence. Once you have your badge you can start working straight away !

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