How to become a chauffeur in London?
Knowing how to become a chauffeur in London is an important milestone for those starting out in the mobility sector. Regulated by the Public Carriage Office (PCO) under Transport for London (TfL), chauffeurs are essential to the implementation of the Mayor of London’s transport strategy.
This article looks at how to become a licensed chauffeur in London, highlighting the process, requirements and tips for aspiring drivers. Let’s see together.
What are the requirements to become a chauffeur in London?
To become a licensed chauffeur in London, you must meet a series of requirements set by the Public Carriage Office (PCO), which is controlled by Transport for London (TfL). These criteria are designed to ensure that all drivers meet high standards of safety, legality and professionalism. Below is a summary of the main requirements:
- Age: must be at least 21 years of age
- Driver’s License: possession of a full UK, EU or other approved driver’s license for at least three years
- Legal right to work: proof of legal right to work in the UK
- Character check: A thorough background check to ensure the applicant’s good character
- Medical fitness: meeting DVLA Group 2 medical standards
- English proficiency: demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English
- Topographical skills: ability to navigate and plan routes within London
- Tax compliance: successful completion of a tax audit with HMRC.
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Understanding PCO licensing
The journey to becoming a chauffeur in London begins with understanding the role of the Public Carriage Office (PCO), which is part of Transport for London (TfL).
The PCO oversees the licensing of drivers, vehicles and private hire operators to ensure safety and compliance with the city’s transport policies.
The Private Hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998 extended the PCO’s responsibilities, allowing it to set and enforce standards for private hire services. An important step for aspiring chauffeurs is to obtain a PCO private hire driver’s licence, which allows them to work anywhere in London, provided they work through a licensed operator.
For more details on licensing and regulations, we recommend you visit the TfL website.
Criminal record check
The criminal record check for prospective chauffeurs in London is a decisive step in ensuring public safety and confidence. Conducted by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), this “enhanced” check examines an applicant’s background for any criminal convictions.
A clean record is essential to securing a private hire driver’s license and reflects an individual’s good character and suitability for the role. This process underlines TfL’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards within the city’s transport services.
Medical fitness
Obtaining a PCO license in London requires compliance with Group 2 medical standards, similar to those for commercial vehicle drivers.
If you wish to become a chauffeur, you must undergo a medical examination to verify your fitness, with an emphasis on conditions that could affect driving ability, such as vision. As you can imagine, consultation with a general practitioner is recommended prior to application to ensure that candidates meet the necessary health criteria, which are essential for the safety of themselves and their passengers.
English language skills
To meet the English language requirement for a PCO license, applicants undergo the SERU assessment, which assesses their English reading, writing and understanding of safety, equality and regulatory issues.
In addition, a speaking and listening test is conducted via secure video or telephone at TfL premises to ensure that candidates can communicate effectively in English, a critical skill in providing safe and inclusive transport services.
Topographical skills assessment
The topographical skills assessment is essential for private hire drivers in London and differs from the comprehensive The Knowledge required of taxi drivers. Launched in April 2006, this assessment tests map reading skills, route planning within and outside London, and general geographical awareness. It ensures that drivers can navigate efficiently in different areas, thereby improving the quality of service. Exemptions apply for certain groups, reflecting the assessment’s role in maintaining high navigation standards for chauffeurs and private hire vehicle operators in the city.
During the assessment, you will need to demonstrate your ability to
- Map reading
- Ability to plan travel for passengers, building and complete itinerary
- Ability to identify and plan a route (or routes) beyond their local area but within London route selection (long distance)
- Knowledge of the general geography of London, major roads and places outside London
HMRC tax check
A tax check with HMRC is a requirement for private hire drivers applying to renew their license in London. This involves using the GOV.UK Government Gateway ID to obtain a unique 9-digit code confirming tax registration status. This code must then be submitted to TfL as part of the license renewal application to ensure tax compliance.
How to apply to become a professional chauffeur in London?
The application process starts with registering on the TfL website, where you will also find detailed guidance and the necessary forms. You can follow the process on the website or email tph.enquiries@tfl.gov.uk.
How much does it cost to get a driver’s license?
Prices to get a license as a driver in London you will incur some costs.
The application and licensing process to become a professional chauffeur in London involves several fees.
For example, you will need to consider the cost of the online or paper Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) application, the initial license application, the final license issuance, additional services for the application submission, language and geographic knowledge assessments and a medical examination
To make an estimate, the cost of obtaining a license is approximately 500 pounds.
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