DBS (CRB) Check

As part of the licensing approval process, TfL requires all applicants to undertake an Enhanced Criminal Records Check from the Diclosing Barrying Services (DBS), previously known as CRB. This process is carried out by TfL’s Service Provider – TMG CRB.

TMG CRB has been contracted by Transport for London (TfL) to provide a DBS Disclosure application service for Taxi and Private Hire Drivers.

You can either apply online or by post. Details on how to apply are contained in the PCO-Licence Application pack.

The DBS Reference or disclosure number will need to be included in your PHV/203 application form. There are circumstances when an Enhanced Criminal Record Check is not required. Details can be found in the PHV/203 application form.

The DBS Check searches your details against criminal records and other sources, including the Police National Computer and will reveal convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings.

The DBS check is only valid for 3 months, so make sure you send off your PCO-Licence application as soon as you get this reference number. If you leave it too long then you may be forced to get a new DBS check.

Please note with effect from 17/06/2013 only one disclosure certificate will be sent out to the applicant (previously 2 were sent out, one to TfL and one to the applicant) – in the event TfL are informed that the DBS (CRB) has disclosed information to the applicant TMG CRB will write to you and ask you to forward your original certificate. This process will be undertaken on behalf of TfL by TMG CRB, their service provider.

Applicants must respond to any correspondence from TMG CRB. Failure to do so could result in them not being licensed. TfL cannot process any applications until a result has been received on your DBS.

TMG CRB will pass a copy of the disclosure certificates to TfL before returning it to the driver. TfL will then destroy their copy once a licensing decision has been made and TMG will not be retaining any copies.