Get Your PCO Licence With Addison Lee
Start your journey as a professional private hire driver in London. We’ll support you every step of the way.
What is a PCO Licence?
PCO stands for Public Carriage Office, which originally oversaw taxi and private hire licensing in London.
A PCO licence, or Private Hire Driver Licence, is issued by Transport for London (TfL). It’s a legal requirement for anyone who wants to work as a private hire driver in London.
The PCO licence lets you carry up to eight passengers in return for payment in vehicles such as minicabs, executive cars or ride-hailing services.
So if you want to be your own boss and work flexible hours, the first step to becoming a private hire driver is to get your PCO licence.
Why Become a PCO Driver With Addison Lee
One of the biggest benefits of holding a PCO licence is the opportunity to earn. Addison Lee offers one of the best driving packages in London, including:
£5,000* guarantee (*T&Cs Apply)
A new VW Multivan vehicle
4 weeks free vehicle hire
Additional rental credits
Full insurance, servicing and maintenance
Pension, sick pay and holiday pay
No upfront vehicle costs
No congestion or ULEZ charges
Flexible hours and weekly pay
Bonuses, incentives and long-term career support
Uncapped earnings with no hidden charges
24/7 driver support
We’ve helped thousands of drivers get licensed and build a rewarding career in private hire. Ready to get started?
What is the difference between a PCO licence and a taxi licence?
A PCO licence lets you work as a private hire driver, driving minicabs and pre-booked vehicles across London. A taxi licence (Hackney Carriage Licence) is required for black cab drivers, who can pick up passengers on the street or at taxi ranks without a booking. However, they must pass ‘The Knowledge’ test, which could take several years. The PCO licence process is quicker, so you can start earning sooner.
PCO Licence Requirements
To apply for a PCO licence with TfL, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have held a full UK, Northern Ireland or EEA driving licence for at least 3 years
- Pass an enhanced criminal records check (DBS)
- Meet Group 2 medical standards (as used for bus and lorry drivers)
- Pass a topographical skills test (map reading and route planning)
- Prove your English language proficiency
You will also need the following documentation:
Passport
Your driving licence (paper or photocard)
National Insurance Number
Two forms of identification that show your current address
We can provide you with support with the PCO licence process, please contact driver recruitment on 0207 255 4204 for more information.
Step-by-step guide to getting your PCO Licence
It takes around 8 to 16 weeks to complete the PCO licence process. This all depends on how quickly you complete each step and how busy TfL is.
Need help speeding up the process? Addison Lee can guide you through every step, from booking your tests to reviewing your documents.
Step 1 : Complete your application form
You can apply for your PCO licence directly through TfL’s online system. The Addison Lee team can help with this, making sure you have everything completed correctly.
Step 2: Book your medical exam
You’ll need a doctor to complete the TPH/204 form after a check-up to confirm you meet the DVLA Group 2 medical standards.
Step 3: Apply for your enhanced DBS check
All PCO drivers must undergo a criminal record check. Drivers must register with, and maintain subscription to, the DBS Update Service. A licence will only be issued with confirmation this subscription is in place.
Step 4: Pass the topographical test
You must demonstrate your ability to navigate London using a map. We can advise you on how to prepare and where to book your test.
Step 5: Prove your English language skills
You’ll need to meet TfL’s standard for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English. Accepted qualifications include GCSEs, a degree taught in English, or a TfL-approved English test.
Step 6: Submit supporting documents
Upload your passport, driving licence, NI number, and proof of address to TfL. Our team can check everything over for you.
Step 7: Wait for approval
Once everything is submitted, TfL will review your application. If successful, you’ll receive your licence by post.
Top Tips to passing the Topographical skills test
To get your PCO licence, you’ll need to pass a topographical test to show you can plan and follow routes effectively. Here are our tips for getting through it:
- Study key London boroughs, landmarks and postcodes.
- Use apps like Google Maps and Citymapper to practise route planning.
- Familiarise yourself with common pick-up and drop-off points (e.g. train stations, airports, hospitals).
- Book a practice test if you can (many training centres offer these).
Take your time and read each question carefully. You won’t be expected to memorise the whole city, but you will need to prove you can work out logical routes.
Can Addison Lee Help Me Apply?
Yes, we have a dedicated team who can help you:
- Understand the TfL application
- Gather the right documents
- Book your tests and appointments
- Track your progress through to approval
We’ve supported hundreds of successful applicants and we’re ready to help you too.
Tools You'll Use as a PCO Driver
When you drive with Addison Lee, you’ll be supported with the best tech in the business. Our cars come fully equipped with:
- An in-car device preloaded with job details, navigation and route management
- Real-time traffic updates and in-app support
- Access to your earnings and bonuses through your driver portal
We offer training on how to use our system, so you’ll feel confident from day one.
How To Renew Your PCO Licence
Your PCO licence is valid for three years. To continue working as a private hire driver in London, you must renew it before it expires. This involves:
- Completing an updated medical check to confirm you still meet Group 2 medical standards.
- Updating your DBS criminal record check.
- Providing proof of your ongoing right to work in the UK.
- Updating any expired documents such as your driving licence.
Addison Lee’s team will support you throughout your renewal process, providing reminders before your licence expiry date, helping you prepare documentation and offering advice to make your renewal smooth and stress-free.
PCO Licence Medical Requirements
To qualify for your PCO licence, you must meet the DVLA Group 2 medical standards, the same as for lorry and bus drivers. This ensures you are fit to drive professionally and includes checks on your eyesight, cardiovascular health, neurological health and general wellbeing.
Your GP will complete the TPH/204 medical form, recording your medical history and current health status. If you have pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions or neurological disorders, discuss these with your GP early to ensure they do not delay your application or renewal.
At Addison Lee, we recommend booking your medical check as soon as you start your application process so you can resolve any issues quickly and avoid TfL processing delays.
What Happens After You Get Your Licence?
Once you receive your PCO licence from TfL, you are ready to begin work as a private hire driver. Addison Lee makes onboarding simple so you can start earning quickly.
Our team will guide you through your induction, including training on how to use your in-car device for bookings and navigation, and how to access real-time traffic updates. We will also provide insights into the best times and locations to maximise your earnings each week.
You’ll meet our support team, learn about bonuses and incentives, and have the option to drive away in a brand-new electric vehicle with insurance, servicing and maintenance included.
With Addison Lee, you’re never on the road alone. We’re here to support you from your first day onwards.
FAQs
Do I need to provide my own vehicle and will I pay for fuel/EV charging?
Unlike other car driver jobs we offer a vehicle rental scheme, where the more journeys you complete the cheaper the weekly vehicle rental charges become. Addison Lee vehicles are all typically less than 3 years old and are regularly maintained by our dedicated service technicians. This means that the hassle of organising insurance, MOT and PHV checks, repairs or replacement vehicle will be taken care of for you, allowing you to stay on the road and never miss an opportunity to earn more money. As a self-employed driver it is your responsibility to hire a vehicle and to pay for the fuel/ev charging and other costs.
Do I have to work set shifts?
Addison Lee driver jobs are completely flexible. Work the hours that suit you best. There are periods during the week where we are busier and specific incentives are in place to encourage drivers to work. During the week, we are particularly busy during the early morning and evening periods and at weekends we are very busy later in the evening.
How long does it take to get a PCO licence?
On average, it takes 8-16 weeks depending on your application completeness, DBS check, and TfL processing times. It’s best to start early and ensure all documents are correct to avoid delays.
Can I work for other operators with a PCO licence?
Yes. Your PCO licence is issued by TfL and is not restricted to one operator. This means you can drive with Addison Lee, ride-hailing apps or other private hire companies. However, if driving an Addison Lee company car you must drive exclusively for Addison Lee.
What is the topographical test?
This assesses your route planning and map reading skills for private hire work in London. With practice and preparation, it’s straightforward and our team can guide you.
Is there an English language requirement?
Yes, TfL requires proof of reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English. This ensures you can communicate clearly with passengers and operate safely.
Do I need to pay congestion charge or ULEZ?
With an electric vehicle, there is no congestion charge or ULEZ fees when driving in London, helping you keep more of your earnings each week.
Do I need a business or a limited company?
Most drivers operate as self-employed sole traders, but some choose to set up a limited company for tax reasons. You don’t have to set up a company to drive with Addison Lee.