PCO MEDICAL
THE PCO MEDICAL EXAMINATION - TPH 204
The PCO medical examination also known as a TPH 204, makes sure you are medically fit to drive passengers. As a large amount of a driver’s time would be spent behind the wheel, TfL need to ensure that a PCO licensed driver is medically fit to do so through the PCO medical. TfL use standards they specify for a DVLA Group 2 licence (Large good vehicles and buses) which are notably higher because there must be a specific set of rules for drivers that are employed behind a wheel.
The Medical Declaration form (TPH/204) which we provide, must be completed by your GP that has full access to your medical history.
The PCO medical report is not free and practitioners can charge from £80-£150. This is an unavoidable cost unless you are exempt*
Here at LPLC we ensure your Medical check is completed by your NHS registered GP. Using a Private GP results in extended delays in TfL issuing you a PCO Licence.
TPH 204 - PCO MEDICAL EXAMINATION BREAKDOWN
Your NHS GP will complete the Medical Form (Which we will provide you)!
The PCO medical examination will only take around 30 minutes and you will be asked questions about the following topics:
- Cardiovascular
- Endocrine system
- Musculoskeletal
- Neurological
- Psychiatric
- Vision
Next Steps
Based on the results of the PCO medical examination, the doctor will write down on your TPH/204 if you have fulfilled the medical requirements of the DVLA Group 2 Licence and will then apply their surgery stamp on it. If we are processing your application then we will send this form off as part of your PCO Licence application.
EXEMPTIONS FROM THE TPH 204 MEDICAL EXAMINATION
Applicants may be exempt from completing a medical form as part of their application if they:
- Hold a DVLA Group 2 licence (full or a provisional licence issued since January 1998)
- Have an active application with us, have completed our medical test and are under the age of 45**
**Active applicants or existing licensees must have a medical exam if you are over the age of 45 and the last medical was done more than three years ago or if you are subject to providing an age-related medical.
To apply for any of the above exemptions please email TfL at tphenquiries@tfl.gov.uk stating the exemption you wish to apply for and they will email you the correct form.
DISABILITIES AND THE PCO MEDICAL EXAMINATION
At LPLC, we offer guidance and assistance to individuals with disabilities who aspire to become licensed Private Hire drivers. While the process is open to everyone, there are occasional safety restrictions that may affect license issuance. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek advice from your GP before applying.
Can I realistically obtain a license if I have a disability?
Absolutely! Many licensed taxis and private hire vehicles come equipped with modifications to accommodate drivers with disabilities. These adaptations include features such as a steering wheel ball, hand-operated braking controls, hand-operated accelerator control, reconfigured foot pedal controls, and an infra-red control panel for operating vehicle lights, indicators, and horn.
However, the suitability of these adaptations will need to be assessed by a medical professional and driver assessor. They will recommend necessary adaptations and ensure that the equipment provides the driver with full control of the vehicle at all times. These adaptations must be installed by an authorised motobility installer, supported by appropriate documentary evidence.
