TOPOGRAPHICAL TEST

PCO TOPOGRAPHICAL SKILLS TEST

A Guide to the Topographical Assessment for PCO Licence Applicants

As part of the PCO Licence application process, applicants must pass a Topographical Skills Assessment to demonstrate their ability to read maps, plan routes, and navigate using standard tools. This test ensures that private hire drivers are capable of transporting passengers efficiently and safely across London.

Assessment Format

The assessment may be conducted on paper or computer. If your test is computer-based, you will need a basic understanding of how to use a mouse.

What the Assessment Covers

The test evaluates several key map-reading skills, divided into the following sections:

Index-Based Questions
You will use the index of a map or atlas to locate streets and landmarks.
Example: Identify the grid reference and page number of Parliament Street, London.
General Topography
This assesses your ability to interpret map features and locations.
Example: What direction is London City Airport from central London?
Route Planning
You’ll be required to plan the most direct route between two points.
Example: What is the most direct route from London Zoo to Piccadilly Circus?
Compass Point Scenarios
You’ll answer directional questions using compass points.
Example: Start at junction 1 and travel 2 streets east, then 1 street south. What junction are you now at?

Assessment Resources

TfL provides a helpful guidance video on how to plot a route during the online assessment. It can be found at:
👉 tfl.gov.uk/topographical

Scoring & Marking

The test is scored out of 100 marks
A minimum score of 60 is required to pass
Route planning questions carry the most marks

Marks may be lost for:

Choosing an indirect route
Ignoring key map features (e.g., one-way systems, roundabouts)
Failing to reach the correct destination

All assessments undergo a two-step marking process for accuracy:

Reviewed by a qualified Topographical Assessor
Checked again through a quality assurance review

⚠️ Please note: TfL does not provide detailed individual feedback or copies of assessments.

AROUND 2 HOURS IS NEEDED TO COMPLETE A TRAINING SESSION.

Don’t panic about the PCO Topographical Test, is very straightforward and the training takes around 120 mins. The current pass mark set by TFL is 60%.

We specialise in providing professional help and support, ensuring you get the best possible training delivered in a distraction free environment. Regardless of your country of origin or learning ability, we ensure you walk away confident in order to pass the test !

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TEST OUTLINE AND BREAKDOWN

The test is divided and structured into 5 sections that are conducted in English. Training will prepare you in detail to successfully complete each module.

Map reading ability – ability to use a simple map and lookup addresses and key points.
Local route selection – ability to be able to plan and choose routes in London going from various destinations.
Intermediate route selection – ability to be able to plan and choose routes beyond your local area but still within London.
Long distance route selection – ability to plan routes to a destination outside of London.
4 general topographical skills questions – general map reading questions such as orientation and motorways.

EXEMPTIONS

You may be exempt if you satisfy the Topographical skill’s requirement as listed by TfL:

Previously licensed London Private Hire Vehicle drivers who have already passed a TfL Topographical Skills Assessment
Licensed London taxi drivers – both all London and Suburban
Professional London tourist guide (e.g. Blue Badge Driver Guide)

Note :

Previously a TfL approved Topographical Test Centre, LPLC are the the still London’s experts. We still provide full premium packages to customers and our training remains very popular. We are the experts in PCO Licensing in London and understand the process thoroughly. We can guarantee absolute peace of mind when partaking in the PCO Licensing process with us here at LPLC.