PCO Licence for Non-UK Nationals: Visas, Right to Work, and What You Need
Many people ask whether non-UK nationals can get a PCO licence and become a private hire driver in London.
The answer is yes, in many cases. But your visa type matters. Before you start, you need to make sure your visa allows you to work as a private hire driver in the UK.
This guide explains everything clearly.
Can Non-UK Nationals Get a PCO Licence?
Yes. TfL does not require you to be a UK citizen. What TfL does require is that you have the legal right to work in the UK, and that your visa allows private hire driving.
Your nationality is not the issue. Your visa type is.
The Right to Work Requirement
When you apply for a PCO licence, TfL will check that you have the right to work in the UK. You will need to show documents that prove this.
Documents TfL usually accepts include:
- A valid UK or Irish passport
- A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) — this is the card issued to most visa holders
- A share code from GOV.UK — this is a number you can get online that lets TfL check your immigration status digitally
- Proof of EU Settlement Scheme status, for people from EU, EEA or Swiss countries
If your documents do not clearly show the right to work, TfL will not process your application.
Which Visa Types Usually Allow Private Hire Driving?
While visa conditions vary and TfL assesses each application individually, the following immigration statuses are generally compatible with private hire driving:
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Also known as settled status, ILR gives you the right to work in any role in the UK without restriction. If you hold ILR, you can apply for a PCO licence in the same way as a UK citizen.
EU Settlement Scheme (Settled Status)
EU, EEA and Swiss nationals who have been granted settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme have the right to work in the UK without restriction. Pre-settled status also generally permits work, but it’s worth confirming your specific conditions.
Skilled Worker Visa
Many Skilled Worker visa holders have the right to take on self-employed work in addition to their sponsored employment, though conditions vary. Check your visa conditions carefully and seek advice if you’re unsure.
British National (Overseas) (BNO) Visa
BNO visa holders generally have the right to work in the UK, including self-employed roles.
Which Visa Types Are Typically Not Eligible?
Some visa types restrict or prohibit private hire driving. These include:
Student visas
Student visas typically restrict working hours and in many cases prohibit self-employed work entirely. Private hire driving is generally not permitted on a student visa.
Visitor visas
Visitor visas do not permit any form of work in the UK, including private hire driving.
Asylum seeker status
If you’re waiting for a decision on an asylum application, you may not have the right to work. Check your current status carefully before applying.
If you’re unsure whether your visa permits private hire driving, the safest step is to check with an immigration adviser before beginning the PCO licence process.
How Do I Get a PCO Licence as a Non-UK National?
For non-UK nationals with the right visa, the PCO licence process is exactly the same as for UK nationals. Here is what you need to do:
SERU assessment
This is a half-day course required by TfL. It covers safe driving in the city and looking after passengers. It costs around £180.
Medical exam
A medical to DVLA Group 2 standard, covering vision and general health. Costs typically range from £70 to £120.
Enhanced DBS check
This is a background check. It costs around £38 plus a small fee. It usually takes two to four weeks. Start this first as it takes the longest. Having something on your record does not automatically mean you will be rejected. TfL looks at each case individually.
TfL application
Once you have all your documents, you apply online and pay the £108 licence fee.
Total costs sit at around £400 to £450. The full process usually takes eight to sixteen weeks.
Driving Licence Requirements for Non-UK Nationals
To apply for a PCO licence you need a full UK driving licence. If your licence is from another country, you will need to convert it to a UK licence first.
Some countries allow a simple swap. Others require you to take a UK driving test. Check the GOV.UK website to find out what applies to your country.
Addison Lee Can Help
Addison Lee has a diverse community of drivers from across the world. Our team knows the PCO licence process well and can help you understand what documents you need, book your assessments and get everything ready before you apply to TfL.
Once you’re licensed, the same driver package applies: eight weeks of free vehicle hire (subject to drivers meeting the required job targets), no congestion or ULEZ charges, an industry-leading maintenance package and 24/7 support from a real team.
If you’re ready to become a private hire driver in London, we’re here to help you get there.
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