New PCO Application

Are you looking to get licensed and work as a driver? Getting your PCO Licence is the first step towards working a new career where you can enjoy freedom of chosing when to work.

 

We make getting your PCO licence a simple, stress-free process 

 

The PCO Licence, also known as the Private Hire Driver Licence, allows you to work as a minicab driver or chauffer, including working as an Uber driver.

 

The PCO licence is valid for 3 years and is issued by the PCO (Public Carriage Office), who are part of Transport for London (TfL).

Apply for your PCO Licence using the official TFL application form.

 

To be eligible for a PCO Licence:

 

✅ You need to be at least 21 years old

✅ Must have UK driving licence for 3 years

✅ Have a valid Criminal Record Check (DBS) check.

✅ Complete a medical examination,

✅ Complete the Topographical Skills Assessment 

✅Take the English Language test. 

 

EEA Driving Licence Exception: You can also apply using a full clean and valid EEA driving licence that you have held for 3 years. Don't forget to submit the UK counterpart.

 

Applying for a PCO Licence can seem complicated, but is actually quite straightforward. All you need to do is follow the steps below: 

 

As part of the application process, you need to prove that you are someone of "good character". To do this, you will need to complete an enhanced DBS Check.

This can cost around £60.

 

To obtain your PCO Licence, you will need to be declared medically fit according to DVLA Group 2 Standards. The criteria includes reaction times, hearing tests and checking for other serious health conditions. You can complete a your medical test with your GP or other health professionals who have complete access to your records.

 

 

The Topographical Skills assessment ensures you are able to use an A-Z Guide to locate places, as well as to plan routes (of varying distance) from one point to another. You will need to obtain your certificate from an accredited test centre. 

 

Find out more about the topographical skills assessment and how to book at a TfL-approved centre on the TfL Website

 

If you wish to be become an Uber driver you will have an option of taking your topographical assessment at the Uber Ignition Centre which is based in London.

This can cost £50 per applicant.

 

The standard of English required is not advanced and equivalent to early secondary school. You will need to take a test with one of TfL’s approved language test providers.

 

Note - In many cases, your academic qualifications (such as GCSEs) can exempt you from having to take the English language test.

 

 

 

Visit the official TfL website and begin the application process for your PCO Licence. You can also sign up online and request a paper application.

 

There is no specific training course for the PCO Licence, however you can receive assistance with 2 aspects: the English test and the topographical skills test. Some providers will offer training and assessment for both of these areas.

 

There are several different costs associated with the PCO Livcence. For instance, there is a cost for starting an application and another for taking the required medical test.

 

âœ�ï¸� Note: The total cost to get a PCO Licence could be up to £700. Costs can vary depending on your choice of provider. E.g. some medical tests can cost more than others.

 

Your PCO Licence is valid for 3 years. To assist you, the Public Carriage Office (PCO) will send you your renewal forms a few weeks before the expiration date of your licence. 

 

It takes a few weeks for PCO Licence application to be processed. If you wait more than 3 months after your PCO Licence has expired, you will no longer be eligible for a renewal and be treated as a new applicant.