SERU Mock
PCO licence tests: which assessments a new PHV applicant takes
A new London private hire (PHV) driver applicant must pass three assessments before being licensed: the English speaking and listening test, SERU and the topographical assessment. People often call this licence "PCO".
The three assessments
TfL’s notice for people who applied on or after 1 April 2023 says you must take and pass these before you are licensed.
| Assessment | What it checks | Fee (first / resit) |
|---|---|---|
| English speaking and listening test | Spoken English at B1, run by PeopleCert | £40 / £30 |
| SERU | Safety, equality and regulatory understanding, based on the PHV Driver’s Handbook; also shows reading and writing | £40 / £30 |
| Topographical assessment | Choosing and planning a route, reading a map, finding locations | £40 / £30 |
In what order?
TfL’s notices we checked do not set one fixed order. Follow the invitations TfL sends you. If TfL gives you dates for more than one assessment, keep all of them.
Other requirements
The handbook lists other requirements: you must be at least 21, hold a full driving licence that is at least three years old, have the right to live and work in the UK, be "fit and proper" with an enhanced DBS check, and pass a medical to DVLA Group 2 standard. TfL says new applicants must also be able to prove the English level (B1). We do not give licensing advice, so check the details with TfL.
Attempts
New applicants are normally allowed three attempts at each assessment. See failing SERU and failing the English test.
How we help
We cover SERU and the English test, not the topographical assessment. Start with free SERU Mock 1 and the free English mock. Costs: licence test costs.
Free practice for all three: PCO licence test practice. Thinking of Uber? See how to become a private hire driver in London.
Questions
What tests do I need for a PCO licence?
The English speaking and listening test, SERU and the topographical assessment, for new applicants, says TfL.
Is "PCO" the same as a TfL PHV licence?
People use PCO for the London private hire driver licence. TfL calls it a PHV driver licence.
In what order should I take the tests?
TfL does not set one order in the notices we checked. Follow your invitations.
Do renewing drivers take all three?
No. Renewing drivers do not retake the topographical assessment. They need to have passed SERU and the English requirement. Check TfL.