PCO Licence Documents: The Complete Checklist

1. Full UK Driving Licence

You’ll need a full DVLA driving licence. TfL requires at least 12 months of licence history. Most operators, including Addison Lee, look for no more than six penalty points. If your licence was issued outside the UK, you’ll need to convert it before applying.

2. DVLA Driver Record Check Code

TfL checks your driving record as part of the application. You’ll need to generate a check code via GOV.UK (‘View your driving licence information’) and share it with TfL. It takes a couple of minutes to get online.

3. Enhanced DBS Certificate

An Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a comprehensive criminal record check covering spent and unspent convictions, cautions and warnings. Apply through a TfL-approved umbrella body. It costs around £38 plus a small processing fee.

Allow two to four weeks for the result. This is usually the longest step, so start your DBS application first.

Important: Your certificate must be dated within three months of your TfL application.

4. Medical Examination Report

You’ll need a medical examination assessed to DVLA Group 2 standard, covering vision and general health. It’s carried out by a DVLA-approved doctor and costs between £70 and £120. Your GP may be able to do it, though many drivers use specialist clinics to avoid long waits.

Important: The report must be on the correct TfL form.

5. SERU Certificate

The Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) assessment is a TfL-required half-day course covering city driving safety and passenger care. It must be completed before you submit your application. Courses are run by TfL-approved providers and cost around £180. Most applicants find a slot within one to two weeks.

6. Proof of Right to Work in the UK

TfL verifies your right to work as part of every application. A valid UK or EU passport usually covers this. If you’re on a visa, check your conditions before applying as some visa types restrict private hire driving.

7. Proof of Address

A recent utility bill, bank statement or council tax letter dated within three months of your application. It must show your current address.

8. Passport-Style Photographs

Standard passport photo requirements apply: plain light background, no glasses, full face visible. 

9. National Insurance Number

You’ll need this for the TfL application. Find it on a payslip, P60 or any HMRC letter. If you’ve misplaced it, contact HMRC to request a reminder.

From starting the process to receiving your licence, allow six to ten weeks:

• DBS check: Two to four weeks, start this first
• SERU assessment: Usually bookable within one to two weeks
• Medical examination: Bookable within one to two weeks
• TfL processing: Two to four weeks once your full application is submitted

Once everything is in, submit your application via the TfL licensing portal. The licence fee of £108 is paid at this point. TfL may follow up with questions – respond promptly to keep things moving.