How to Get a PCO Licence in 2025

Are you thinking about becoming a private hire driver in London? If you want to drive for Uber, Bolt, or any other ride-hailing service, you’ll need a PCO licence issued by Transport for London (TfL).

A PCO licence (Private Hire Driver Licence) is your ticket to legally working as a minicab or ride-hailing driver in the city. But how do you get one in 2025? What’s changed, and how can you speed up the application process?

This guide covers everything you need to know—from eligibility requirements and costs to medical tests and top tips to help you get approved faster. Let’s get started!

What is a PCO Licence?

Transport for London (TfL) issues a PCO (Public Carriage Office) licence, officially known as a Private Hire Driver Licence. It allows you to work as a private hire driver, picking up pre-booked passengers through apps like Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow.

This licence is valid for three years and is required for anyone driving a PCO-approved vehicle.

Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible for a PCO Licence

Before you start the application process, make sure you meet TfL’s basic eligibility criteria:

• Age Requirement – You must be at least 21 years old.
• Driving Experience – You need a valid UK, Northern Ireland, or EU driving licence held for at least three years.
• Right to Work – You must have legal permission to work in the UK.
• Medical Fitness – You must pass a DVLA Group 2 medical check (more on this below).
• Topographical Test – You must pass a map-reading and navigation test (required for all new drivers).
• English Language Test – You must prove your reading, writing, and speaking ability in English.

If you meet these requirements, you’re good to go! Now, let’s break down the application process.

Step 2: Apply for an Enhanced DBS Check

Since you’ll be transporting passengers, you need to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to prove you have no serious criminal convictions.

💡 How to Apply for a DBS Check:

1. Go to TfL’s approved provider, GBG Online Disclosures, and create an account.
2. Submit your application and pay the £52 DBS fee.
3. Provide proof of identity (passport, driving licence, utility bill).
4. Wait for verification (can take 2-4 weeks).

If you have a criminal record, it doesn’t automatically disqualify you—but serious offences like violence, fraud, or sexual crimes may result in rejection.

Step 3: Get a DVLA Group 2 Medical Check

Driving for long hours requires good health, so TfL requires all PCO applicants to pass a DVLA Group 2 medical exam.

This check must be completed by a registered GP, and they will assess:

• Vision (you must meet the eyesight standard for driving).
• Blood Pressure (to ensure no risk of sudden collapse).
• Diabetes, epilepsy, heart conditions (to confirm you are fit to drive professionally).

💡 Tip: Some clinics offer cheaper PCO medical exams than your GP—shop around to save money!

Step 4: Pass the English Language Requirement (ELR)

TfL now requires all PCO applicants to prove their English proficiency. You must either:

1. Pass a TfL-approved English test (covers reading, writing, and speaking).
2. Provide proof of qualification (GCSE, A-Level, or degree taught in English).

The test costs around £180-£200, and failure means you must retake the exam.

💡 If English isn’t your first language, take some practice tests before booking the exam.

Step 5: Pass the Topographical Test

Unlike black cab drivers, PCO drivers don’t need The Knowledge. However, you must pass a topographical skills test, proving you can:

• Read London maps.
• Plan the shortest and most efficient routes.
• Identify major landmarks and key locations.

The test costs around £50-£100 and is conducted at TfL-approved centres.

💡 Use Google Maps and practice planning routes between key locations (e.g., Heathrow to Oxford Street).

Step 6: Submit Your PCO Licence Application

Once you’ve passed all tests, it’s time to apply for your PCO licence online via the TfL website.

💡 What You Need to Submit:

• Completed PCO licence application form.
• Enhanced DBS check result.
• Medical check certificate.
• English test result.
• Topographical test certificate.
• Application fee payment (£485-£700).

Processing time varies, but it can take 8-12 weeks to get your PCO licence approved.

Step 7: Get a PCO-Approved Car

To start driving, you’ll need a PCO-approved vehicle that meets TfL’s strict emissions and safety standards.

🚗 Your car must:

• Be under 10 years old.
• Meet ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) standards.
• Have four doors and be in good condition.
• Be fully insured for private hire use.

💡 Looking for a ready-to-go PCO car? Check out our PCO cars, including hybrids and electric vehicles!

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PCO Licence?

Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:

How Long Does It Take to Get a PCO Licence?

On average, it takes 8-12 weeks to complete the entire process. However, delays can happen if you fail a test, submit incorrect documents, or face backlog issues with TfL.

💡 Apply as early as possible to avoid long waiting times.

Start Driving & Earning as a PCO Driver

Once your licence is approved, you’re officially a PCO driver! Now, you can:

• Sign up with Uber, Bolt, or other ride-hailing apps.
• Get a PCO car on hire or rent-to-buy.
• Start earning money while driving passengers around London.

If you’re looking for a reliable and fully licensed vehicle, check out our PCO car hire options. We offer affordable weekly rentals and rent-to-buy programs, so you can get on the road quickly!

Final Takeaways

• You need a PCO licence for Uber, Bolt, and other private hire services in London.
• You must pass a DBS check, medical exam, English test, and topographical test.
• The total cost is around £850-£1,200, and the process takes 8-12 weeks.
• Choose a PCO-approved hybrid or electric vehicle to maximise earnings and meet TfL standards.

Becoming a PCO driver in 2025 is a great opportunity to earn a steady income in London. Follow this guide, stay patient, and you’ll be on the road in no time!