PCO Licence Rejected: Common Reasons & How to Appeal

An Enhanced DBS check is part of every PCO licence application. TfL reviews all convictions, both spent and unspent, as part of the assessment.

Having something on your record doesn’t automatically mean rejection. TfL looks at each case individually and considers the nature of the offence, how long ago it happened and whether it’s relevant to working as a private hire driver. Serious offences, particularly those involving violence, sexual offences or dishonesty, are more likely to result in rejection.

If you were rejected because of your DBS, the letter from TfL will explain what was considered. This is the starting point for any appeal.

You need to pass a medical examination to DVLA Group 2 standard. If you didn’t pass, the rejection will specify why. Common reasons include vision that doesn’t meet the required standard, or a health condition that affects your ability to drive safely.

If your medical was borderline, it may be worth getting a second opinion from another DVLA-approved doctor, or speaking to your GP about whether your condition can be managed or treated before reapplying.

Sometimes a rejection is simply down to a paperwork issue. Missing documents, an expired DBS certificate, a medical report on the wrong form, or a SERU certificate that’s out of date can all result in rejection.

This is the easiest type of rejection to fix. Check the TfL letter carefully, gather the correct documents and reapply.

If you believe TfL’s decision was wrong, or you have new information that wasn’t considered, you have the right to appeal.

Step 1: Read your rejection letter carefully

TfL will explain the reason for the decision. This tells you what your appeal needs to address.

Step 2: Gather your evidence

Depending on the reason for rejection, this might include character references, evidence of rehabilitation, updated medical reports, legal advice, or proof of changed circumstances.

Step 3: Submit your appeal to TfL

TfL has a formal appeals process. Your rejection letter will include information on how to appeal and the deadline for doing so. Act quickly as there is usually a time limit.

Step 4: If TfL upholds the rejection, you can appeal to a Magistrates’ Court

This is a more formal legal process and it’s worth getting advice before going down this route.

In some cases, reapplying is a more straightforward route than appealing. If your rejection was due to missing documents, an expired certificate or a fixable issue, sorting the problem and submitting a fresh application may be quicker than going through a formal appeal.

If you’re not sure whether to appeal or reapply, the TfL licensing team can advise on the best route.