PCO Licence Conditions: 8 Rules Every Licence Holder Must Follow
Getting your PCO licence is a big achievement. But once you have it, you need to follow certain rules to keep it.
If you break these rules, TfL can suspend or take away your licence. That means you cannot work until the issue is resolved.
Here are the main rules every PCO licence holder needs to know.
1. Keep your licence valid
Your PCO licence lasts for three years. It does not renew on its own. You need to apply to renew it before it runs out.
TfL suggests you start the renewal process at least three months before your expiry date. This gives you enough time in case there are any delays.
Driving without a valid licence is a criminal offence.
2. Only drive for a licensed operator
As a private hire driver, you can only take passengers who have already booked a journey through a licensed operator like Addison Lee.
You cannot stop your car and pick up someone who waves you down on the street. This is called “plying for hire” and it is illegal for private hire drivers.
Every journey must be pre-booked.
3. Your vehicle must meet TfL's rules
The car you use for work must be registered with TfL as a private hire vehicle. It must also be in good condition and insured for private hire driving.
Standard car insurance is not enough. You need hire and reward insurance.
If your car is damaged or no longer meets TfL’s standards, you must stop using it for work until it is fixed.
4. Carry your licence with you at all times
When you are working, you must have your PCO licence and your driving licence with you. If a police officer or TfL officer asks to see them, you must show them.
5. Tell TfL if something changes
TfL needs to know about certain changes in your life. You must tell them if:
- You move to a new address
- You get a new criminal conviction or caution, including driving offences
- You develop a health condition that could affect your driving
- Your driving licence gets points added, is suspended or is taken away
Do not wait until your renewal. Tell TfL as soon as these things happen.
6. Stay fit to drive
You passed a medical when you first applied for your licence. TfL can ask you to do another medical at any time if they are concerned about your health.
You also have a responsibility to be honest with yourself. If you are unwell, taking medication that affects your driving, or feel too tired to drive safely, you should not work.
If a health condition changes your ability to drive, let TfL know straight away.
7. Never drive under the influence
It seems like an obvious one but it’s one of the rules to note. You must never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This includes some prescription medicines.
If you are taking medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe to drive while using it.
A conviction for drink or drug driving is very serious and will probably result in your licence being taken away.
8. Keep your DBS check up to date
Your Enhanced DBS check is part of your licence conditions. TfL can ask for an updated one at any time.
You must also tell TfL immediately if you get any new convictions. Do not wait for your licence renewal to report them.
What happens if you break the rules?
TfL can suspend or revoke your licence. They can also give you a warning or add new conditions to your licence.
If TfL takes action against your licence, you have the right to appeal. But it is always better to follow the rules and avoid getting to that point.
If you receive any notice from TfL about your licence, it is a good idea to get legal advice quickly.
How Addison Lee can help
If you have questions about your licence conditions, our driver support team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We can help you understand what you need to do and point you in the right direction.
Keeping your licence in good standing means you can keep earning. We’re here to help you do that.
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