Taxi Licence in
Transport for London (PCO)
Everything you need to know about getting a taxi or private hire driver licence from Transport for London — costs, requirements, DBS, medical, and how to apply.
Types of taxi licence in Transport for London (PCO)
Transport for London issues three main types of taxi and private hire licence. Make sure you apply for the right one.
Private Hire Driver Licence
Required to drive a private hire vehicle (minicab). Must be booked in advance through a licensed operator. Cannot be hailed on the street.
Hackney Carriage Licence
Required to drive a traditional taxi (black cab or licensed hackney). Can be hailed on the street or from a taxi rank.
Private Hire Operator Licence
Required to run a private hire firm or dispatch bookings to private hire drivers. Separate from the driver licence.
Requirements for a taxi licence in Transport for London (PCO)
The following requirements apply to most applicants. Transport for London may have additional local requirements — always check their website for the latest information.
- Valid UK driving licence held for at least 12 months
- Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
- Medical examination (DVLA Group 2 standard or council equivalent)
- Knowledge test (local geography and legislation)
- Topographical test (route knowledge)
- Appropriate vehicle insurance (hire & reward)
- Roadworthy, licensed vehicle meeting council standards
- Right to work in the UK
Typical costs in Transport for London (PCO)
Fees are set by Transport for London and may change. These figures are typical across UK councils — verify current fees directly with the council.
How to apply for a taxi licence in Transport for London (PCO)
The application process varies slightly between councils but follows a standard pattern.
Download the application
Visit the Transport for London website and download the taxi or private hire driver licence application form.
Book your DBS check
Apply for an enhanced DBS check through the council or an approved umbrella body. Allow 2–4 weeks.
Complete your medical
Book a DVLA Group 2 medical examination with a GP. Bring the completed form to your application.
Submit and pay
Submit your completed application, documents, and fee to Transport for London. Await your licence badge.
Already licensed in Transport for London (PCO)?
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Taxi licence FAQs — Transport for London (PCO)
How do I get a taxi licence in Transport for London (PCO)?
To get a taxi or private hire driver licence in Transport for London (PCO), you apply to Transport for London. You will need a valid UK driving licence, an enhanced DBS check, a medical examination, and to pass a knowledge or topographical test. The full process typically takes 4–12 weeks depending on the council's processing times.
How much does a taxi licence cost in Transport for London (PCO)?
The total cost of getting a taxi licence in Transport for London (PCO) through Transport for London is typically £224–£510 including the application fee, DBS check, medical, knowledge test, and vehicle inspection. Exact fees are set by Transport for London and may change — check their website for current rates.
Do I need a separate licence for each council area?
Yes. A taxi or private hire licence is issued by a specific council and is generally only valid within that council's area. If you want to work across multiple areas, you may need licences from each relevant council. Some councils have reciprocal arrangements — check with Transport for London for details.
How long does a taxi licence last in Transport for London (PCO)?
Most councils issue taxi and private hire driver licences for 1–3 years. Transport for London will specify the renewal period when you apply. You will need to renew your DBS check and medical at each renewal.
Can I drive for Joe Maxi Taxis with a Transport for London (PCO) licence?
Yes. Once you hold a valid private hire or hackney carriage driver licence issued by Transport for London, you can register as a driver with Joe Maxi Taxis. We verify your licence documents during onboarding and you can start accepting bookings within 24 hours of approval.
What medical standard is required for a taxi licence in Transport for London (PCO)?
Most councils require drivers to meet the DVLA Group 2 medical standard, which is the same standard required for HGV and bus drivers. This involves a medical examination by a GP or approved medical practitioner. The examination covers eyesight, cardiovascular health, and general fitness to drive.
Do I need a knowledge test for a taxi licence in Transport for London (PCO)?
Most councils require a knowledge or topographical test covering local geography, legislation, and taxi regulations. Transport for London will confirm the specific test requirements when you apply. Some councils also require a safeguarding awareness course.
Taxi licence guides for nearby councils
Got your Transport for London (PCO) taxi licence?
Register with Joe Maxi Taxis today and start earning within 24 hours of approval.