PCO MEDICAL
THE PCO MEDICAL EXAMINATION - TPH 204
The PCO medical examination, also known as the TPH/204, is a key requirement in the application process to ensure drivers are medically fit to carry passengers. Since a large portion of a private hire driver’s time is spent on the road, Transport for London (TfL) requires that applicants meet the higher medical standards set for DVLA Group 2 licence holders — the same standards applied to drivers of large goods vehicles and buses.
To complete this requirement, applicants must submit a Medical Declaration form (TPH/204), which must be filled out by a GP who has full access to their medical history. It’s important to note that this is not a free service — most medical practitioners charge between £80 and £180 for the assessment. This cost is generally unavoidable unless the applicant qualifies for a specific exemption.*
At LPLC they 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
In some cases, applicants may be exempt from completing the medical form (TPH/204) as part of their PCO Licence application. Exemptions may apply if the applicant:
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Holds a DVLA Group 2 licence (full or provisional, issued since January 1998)
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Has an active application with TfL, has already completed the medical, and is under the age of 45**
**Please note: Active applicants or existing licence holders over the age of 45 must complete a new medical examination if their last one was conducted more than three years ago or if they are required to submit age-related medicals.
To apply for a medical exemption, applicants should email TfL at tphenquiries@tfl.gov.uk, clearly stating the exemption they are applying for. TfL will then provide the appropriate form to complete.
DISABILITIES AND THE PCO MEDICAL EXAMINATION
At LPLC, guidance and support are available for individuals with disabilities who wish to become licensed Private Hire drivers. The application process is open to all, though certain safety considerations may apply depending on individual circumstances. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that applicants consult with their GP before beginning the process.
Can you still obtain a licence if you have a disability?
Yes — many licensed taxis and private hire vehicles can be fitted with adaptations designed to support drivers with disabilities. These may include features such as steering wheel balls, hand-operated brake or accelerator controls, modified foot pedal arrangements, and infra-red control panels for managing lights, indicators, and horns.
However, the suitability of such adaptations must be evaluated by a medical professional and a qualified driver assessor. They will determine whether the recommended equipment provides full and safe control of the vehicle. Any adaptations must be installed by an authorised motability installer, with supporting documentation required as part of the licensing process.
