Common Reasons for PCO Licence Renewal Rejection
Renewing your PCO licence is essential to continue working legally as a private hire driver in London. However, countless renewal applications are delayed or rejected because of avoidable mistakes every year.
Understanding why PCO licence renewals get rejected can save you time, stress, and even your income. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common issues that lead to a rejected application.
Article Highlights
TfL rejecting your PCO licence renewal? It might be because of the following reasons:
- Expired or incorrect documents
- Failed medical examination
- Insufficient English language skills
- Criminal record issues (DBS Check)
- Penalty points or driving offences
- Inadequate vehicle standards
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Reason 1: Expired or Incorrect Documents
- Submitted documents are outdated, incomplete, or incorrect.
- TfL requires valid ID, DBS certificate, medical form, driving licence, right to work proof, and more.
- Missing or mismatched details can cause immediate rejection.
Whether you are driving independently or under a PCO car hire plan, always double-check that every document is current, accurate, and complete before submitting your renewal. A small mistake can cost you valuable time and income.
Failed Medical Examination
- A medical report is required and must be completed by your General Practitioner or a TfL-approved doctor.
- TfL may reject your application if you have:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Poor eyesight
- Other unmanaged health conditions
Your health directly impacts passenger safety, so TfL takes medical checks seriously. If you have a condition, make sure it’s well-managed and properly documented. Submitting a clear, up-to-date medical report can make all the difference in keeping your licence.
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Insufficient English Language Skills
- You must meet TfL’s English Language Requirement (ELR) standards.
- You have two options:
- Pass a test (speaking, reading, writing, listening) at an approved centre
- Submit recognised qualifications (e.g. GCSEs, A-levels)
Strong English skills are essential for safety, communication, and professionalism. If you haven’t submitted a valid qualification, make sure you’re fully prepared for the ELR test. Meeting this requirement is key to keeping your licence and continuing to work.
Criminal Record Issues (DBS Check)
- TfL checks for offences including:
- Violence or abuse
- Sexual offences
- Fraud or theft
- Drunk or drug-related driving offences
If you have a criminal record, TfL will assess the severity and timing of the offence. Serious or recent convictions may lead to immediate disqualification, so transparency and timing are key.
Penalty Points or Driving Offences
- TfL may reject your application if:
- You have 12 or more active penalty points
- You’ve committed serious driving offences (e.g. dangerous driving, driving without insurance)
Even if you’re a skilled driver, your record must show consistent, responsible behaviour behind the wheel.
Inadequate Vehicle Standards
Your application could be rejected if your car has any of the following issues:
- ULEZ Non-Compliance
- Petrol: Must meet Euro 4.
- Diesel: Must meet Euro 6.
- Petrol: Must meet Euro 4.
- Poor Condition
- No body damage, cracked windscreens, oil leaks, or worn tyres.
- All lights, brakes, mirrors must work properly.
- No body damage, cracked windscreens, oil leaks, or worn tyres.
- Expired MOT or PHV Licence
- Both documents must be valid at the time of renewal.
TfL has set high standards for cars as well. So, make sure your car meets all the requirements to carry passengers legally.
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Conclusion
As a PCO driver, your licence is your livelihood. That’s why you should start the renewal process early, double-check every document, keep your vehicle in top condition, and make sure your health and driving records meet TfL standards.
Being proactive and well-prepared can save you from stressful delays and income loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can TfL revoke my PCO licence?
Yes, TfL can revoke your PCO licence if it has proof of your involvement in a criminal activity, if it believes you are not fit for the job, or for any other reason that doesn’t align with their standards.
Can I speak to someone at TfL?
You can register your complaints and gain information about an industry-related topic by calling 0343 222 1234. Charges may apply.
Can I also write to TfL?
TfL also corresponds through the following email addresses:
- For customer account-related issues: support@tph.tfl.gov.uk
- For driver licensing questions: drivers@tph.tfl.gov.uk
- For operator licensing questions: operators@tph.tfl.gov.uk
- For vehicle licensing questions: vehicles@tph.tfl.gov.uk
- For driver assessment-related queries: assessments@tph.tfl.gov.uk
- For queries related to Knowledge of London: knowledge@tph.tfl.gov.uk
- For queries related to post-licensing support: licensingsupport@tph.tfl.gov.uk
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