First Week as a PCO Driver: Expectations and Preparation
PCO driving is an excellent career path for people who want to work independently. If you have received your PCO licence and are ready to start driving, your first week matters a lot.
A strong start builds momentum and keeps you on top of your weekly PCO car hire payments, while getting negative reviews in your first few days can create problems later on.
In this article, we will provide a roadmap for the first week to set you up for a profitable and sustainable career ahead.
Article Highlights
This article covers:
- Preparing for your first day
- Things to learn during the first week
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Tips for success
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Essential Preparation Before Your First Day
Keep in mind the following points before you start driving:
Check Your Documents
Your Private Hire Licence is your proof to legally drive and earn. Transport for London requires you to display it clearly in your vehicle at all times.
Check every detail on your documents. Confirm that your name matches exactly on all your documents. If you are driving a hired vehicle, your car provider will handle insurance, MOTs, and other relevant documents. However, you still need to have them in your car during routine checks. Proper preparation prevents stressful delays or fines on your first day.
Set Up Your Driver Apps
Uber, Bolt, and FREENOW are the major platforms in London. Download these apps on your phone and complete each application process carefully. Make sure you provide accurate details to avoid any trouble later on. This process can take several days. Do not leave it until the last minute.
Explore the app settings before you go online. Learn how to set destination filters and use other key features to gain greater control over your workday.
Vehicle Checks
PCO hire cars are usually well-maintained, but you still need to perform a thorough check before your first shift. Check tyre pressure and make sure all the lights work properly. Check your brakes as well because they are important for safety.
Things to Learn During the First Week
Do not expect that you will get rides and start earning immediately. Focus on the following during your first week:
Demand Patterns
Use your first week to observe demand patterns. Do not just drive aimlessly. Notice how the morning and evening rush affects demand, and pay attention to event schedules. Concerts and sports events cause a surge in demand. Drive in these areas when the demand is high and use slower periods for your breaks. This strategic approach can help maximise your earnings.
London’s Roads
Navigation apps are helpful tools, but do not rely overly on them. They don’t always suggest optimal routes. Start building your mental map of London. Notice major congestion hotspots and learn alternative routes around them.
Know the Congestion Charge boundaries in Central London. The daily fee for driving in this zone is £15 (£18 from 2 January 2026). Plan your routes to avoid unnecessary entries here. Similarly, if your car does not meet TfL’s Euro 4 or Euro 6 emission standards, you will need to pay an extra £12.50 daily charge.
We offer Euro 4 and Euro 6 compliant vehicles. Hire a PCO car from Fleeto and avoid the £12.50 daily ULEZ charge. Our fleet meets all TfL standards, so you can save more. Drive with confidence. Choose Fleeto.
Dealing With Passengers
Your interaction with passengers defines their experience. Start with a polite greeting and confirm their destination. Read your passenger’s mood because some people like to talk while others remain quiet. Respect their choice.
Also Read: Useful Tips for PCO Drivers to Avoid Passenger Complaints
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes many new drivers make during their first week:
Forgetting to End Trips
New drivers often forget to end trips. This simple mistake can cost you big time because the app stays active on a completed journey. You cannot receive new trip requests unless you end the trip. Build a habit to end the trip immediately after your passenger leaves the car. Some drivers place a small note on their dashboard as a reminder during their first week. Do this and periodically check your driver app to ensure it shows you are “online” and available for new trips.
Overdriving Just to Hit Bonuses
Apps often offer incentives to new drivers, such as a bonus for completing a set number of trips within a specific period. These incentives seem tempting, but do not chase them blindly, as this often leads to poor decisions. You may end up working extra hours or accepting unprofitable trips. Always consider the extra fuel and your fatigue level before accepting a ride.
Accepting Jobs Too Far Away
Accepting a job 15 minutes away for a 5-minute ride wastes your time and fuel. Build a smart acceptance strategy. If the pickup time exceeds the likely trip time, decline the request. You can use the map preview in the app to see the trip’s general direction and length. During your first week, learn your personal threshold. Many experienced drivers never accept a pickup more than 10-12 minutes away.
Tips for Long-Term Success
Follow the tips below to set yourself up for success:
Build a Routine
Create a work routine that suits your life. Notice when you work most effectively and build your schedule around these times. Many drivers work full-time on weekends due to peak demand and take days off early in the week.
The right routine prevents burnout and makes this job more manageable.
Join a Supportive Community
Connect with other drivers through WhatsApp groups or Facebook communities. Trade unions like the GMB or ADCU also offer support. These communities provide real-time advice and share information on traffic, surge areas, and passenger issues.
Talking to others who understand this job is invaluable. You can learn from their experiences and grow your network.
Also Read: Want Bigger Fares? Here’s When to Drive Uber in London
Start Earning Today.
Conclusion
Your first week as a PCO driver can be challenging. You will make mistakes, but you will also have small victories. Celebrate your victories and learn from your mistakes to become a better driver.
If you are on a PCO car hire plan, you can also take advice from your car provider before hitting the road.
London offers immense opportunities for private hire drivers. We have given you the map, so start your engine. The road ahead is rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need before starting my first day as a PCO driver?
You must have your Private Hire Driver Licence, vehicle insurance certificate, MOT, and vehicle licence displayed at all times. If you hire a vehicle, these documents are already prepared for you, but you should still keep copies in your car.
Do I need to perform vehicle checks if I’m hiring a PCO car?
Yes. Even though your car provider will offer you a fully maintained vehicle, you should still check tyres, lights, brakes, and screenwash before your shift. Small checks prevent big problems.
Will I start earning immediately in my first week?
Not always. Your first week is mostly about learning demand patterns, geography, and app features. Income usually improves from week two onwards once you understand the system.
How can I avoid congestion charges during my first week?
Learn the Congestion Charge zone boundaries and plan your routes. Avoid Central London unless the journey is profitable. Hiring an electric PCO car can also reduce this charge.
What are the most common mistakes new PCO drivers make?
Forgetting to end trips, accepting unprofitable jobs far away, and overdriving to chase bonuses are the biggest early mistakes. Build discipline from day one to avoid them.
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Start Your First Week With Confidence. Hire Your PCO Car From Fleeto Today!
We offer fully insured and well-maintained vehicles to help you stay compliant and confident. With us, there are no hidden costs or surprises. Just fair terms and flexible plans designed for you. Let’s connect to discuss further.
