What are the PCO Licence Requirements for New Drivers?
A PCO (Public Carriage Office) licence is essential for anyone looking to work with ride-sharing apps like Uber, Bolt, or Free Now in London.
While getting a PCO licence is a lengthy process, it’s not difficult if you follow each step carefully.
This guide breaks everything down in simple terms—so you know exactly what to do to get on the road. From passing the enhanced DBS check to paying the licence fees, we’ve covered everything you need to know.
Highlights
To obtain a PCO licence, you must:
- Hold a valid UK driving licence for at least 3 years
- Meet the right to work requirements
- Pass an enhanced DBS check
- Complete a medical check
- Pass the SERU assessment
- Meet the English language requirement
- Pass the topographical skills test
- Pay the licence fee and submit your application
Mercedes Benz EQE
£350/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£450/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
MG 5
£115/week
MG HS
£250/week
Toyota Corolla
£200/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
Toyota Prius Plus
£220/week
Toyota Rav4
£270/week
Valid UK Driving Licence
To apply for a PCO licence, you must have had a full UK driving licence for at least three years. This rule applies to both manual and automatic licences. If you have an EU or EEA licence, you must get a UK driving licence before applying for a PCO licence.
Why is this important?
Driving in London requires experience due to its heavy traffic, complex roads, and strict regulations.
TfL (Transport for London) requires drivers to have at least three years of driving experience to ensure they are capable of handling these conditions safely.
Meet the Right to Work Requirements
You must prove your legal right to work in the UK to apply.
How do you prove this?
- British and Irish citizens: A valid passport
- EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals: A share code from the UK government’s online system
- Non-UK citizens: A visa or residence permit
TfL will verify your documents to confirm your eligibility to work as a private hire driver.
Pass an Enhanced DBS Check (Criminal Background Check)
An Enhanced DBS check is required to ensure you have no serious convictions that could pose a risk to passengers.
Key points:
- Apply through TfL’s approved provider.
- Convictions related to violence, theft, fraud, or sexual offences may lead to rejection.
- Always disclose your full history truthfully.
Pro Tip: Register for the DBS Update Service within 30 days of receiving your certificate. This saves time and money for renewals.
Apply Today to Secure Your Future!
Join our fleet of 8000+ satisfied customers and start boosting your income today !
Complete a Medical Check
PCO drivers must meet DVLA Group 2 medical standards. This confirms you’re healthy enough to drive professionally.
The check includes:
- Eyesight test (legal minimum vision standards)
- Screening for diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease, etc.
Use your regular GP (who has access to your medical history) or a GMC-approved doctor. TfL may request additional info for long-term conditions.
Pass the SERU (Safety, Equality, and Regulatory Understanding) Assessment
The SERU (Safety, Equality, and Regulatory Understanding) assessment checks your knowledge of:
- TfL rules and private hire responsibilities
- Customer safety and rights
- Equality and professional conduct
What’s in the test?
- Multiple-choice questions
- Reading and writing exercises based on documents like licence forms and safety policies
The goal is to ensure that PCO drivers understand their responsibilities and can communicate clearly and professionally.
Meet the English Language Requirement (ELR)
You must demonstrate your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
How to meet this requirement?
Submit proof of a recognised qualification (GCSEs, A-Levels, etc.) or take a TfL-approved English test.
Strong English skills are vital for communicating with passengers, reading road signs, and handling emergencies.
Pass the Topographical Skills Test
This is a map-reading test to assess your ability to navigate around London.
The test includes:
- Planning efficient routes
- Identifying landmarks and boroughs
- Using an A-Z map to locate addresses and estimate travel time
Even with GPS, TfL requires you to have basic navigation skills in case of app failures or road closures.
Pay the PCO Licence Fee and Submit Your Application
Once you’ve completed all the steps, submit your application through TfL’s official website.
Documents needed for submission:
- Valid UK driving licence
- Enhanced DBS certificate
- Completed medical form (TPH/204)
- SERU test results
- Topographical test results
- Proof of right to work in the UK
- Proof of English language proficiency
TfL typically takes 6–8 weeks to process and issue your PCO licence.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a licensed PCO driver may seem like a long journey—but it’s designed to ensure that only responsible, qualified, and professional drivers are on the road. By following each step carefully, you can avoid delays and start your new career with confidence.
Get Your Car Today!
Want to Earn on Your Own Schedule?
Whether you’ve just obtained your PCO licence or have years of experience, Fleeto offers PCO-ready vehicles that meet all TfL standards. Our top features include:
- Fully insured and maintained cars
- Petrol, Hybrid, and Electric options
- No hidden fees
- 90-minute onboarding process
Drive with confidence. Drive with Fleeto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can drive a PCO car?
Anyone with a valid PCO licence can drive a PCO car. A PCO licence is valid for three years. If it’s expired, you will need to renew it before driving a PCO car.
Is a PCO driving career rewarding?
Yes, PCO driving can be a rewarding career if you drive in the right areas at the right time. The average PCO driver salary in London is £45,378. Plus, you get flexible hours and many other perks that don’t come with traditional 9-5 jobs.
How long does it take to become a PCO driver?
If you hold a valid UK driving licence for three or more years, you may need additional 4-6 months to complete the PCO licensing process.
Suggested Blogs
To get more information like this
Subscribe to our newsletter
Start Your Career as a PCO Driver with Fleeto!
Want to earn on your own schedule? Our PCO car hire company can help with that. We provide fully insured, well-maintained cars on simple terms. It doesn’t matter if you just obtained your licence or have been in the PCO industry for years, our cars will meet all your demands on the road. Whether you prefer petrol cars, hybrids, or fully electric vehicles, we have you covered.
