Disabilities
Becoming a licensed taxi or private hire driver is open to all. If you’re a disabled person and interested in becoming a driver, there are some things to consider.
TfL tries to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to get through the application and assessment process.
However, there are some medical conditions that for public safety reasons, will mean you can’t be licensed, so it is important that you discuss your situation with your GP before you apply. You have to meet DVLA Group 2 Medical Fitness Requirements.
Full information on medical guidelines can be found in the DVLA Group 2 guidelines (https://www.gov.uk/current-medical-guidelines-dvla-guidance-for-professionals)
In summary, the requirements are the same as for all PCO Licence applicants. You will need to complete a medical check-up with your doctor. It normally takes about half an hour, during which you will be asked about the following subjects:
- Vision
- Psychiatric
- Neurological
- Musculoskeletal
- Endocrine System
- Cardiovascular
Your doctor will give his professional opinion based on the results of the medical check-up and the answers you gave to the questions he asked, on whether or not he feels you meet the guidelines set for the DVLA Group 2 Medical and he will complete the last part of the PHV/204, sign it and stamp it. If you successfully pass this medical you will need to send that form along with the rest of the PCO application form and other documentation.
However, it is important to note that there are some medical conditions that will stop you from getting a licence. These include:
- Epilepsy
- Insulin treated/insulin dependent diabetes
- Monocular or poor vision
- A progressive degenerative illness
- A history of alcohol or drug abuse
- A history of mental illness or severe mental handicap
- A physical disability which might impair the ability to discharge the requirements of a vocational driver
- Heart problems
- Neurological or neurosurgical disorders (.e.g. strokes, blackouts, head injuries)
- Certain prescribed medications.
Disabled Drivers Vehicle
Should a mobility centre report, or any other specialist advice, i.e. from a medical specialist, indicate that a driver with a physical disability is only fit to drive certain types of vehicles, e.g. those with automatic transmission or those fitted with specified adaptations, the nature of the limitation must be suitably endorsed upon the licence. There is no guarantee that specially adapted vehicles will be available for a driver to hire and this must be explained to the individual concerned at the outset. Moreover, any vehicle that is specially adapted must first be approved by TPH.
Vehicle adaptations include:
- Steering wheel ball
- Hand operated braking controls
- Hand operated accelerator control
- Reconfigured foot pedal controls
- Infra-red control panel for operating vehicle lights, indicators and horn
Drivers who use vehicle adaptations will need to be assessed by a medical professional and driver assessor. They will recommend what adaptations are needed and exactly what equipment must be fitted to ensure the driver has full control of the vehicle at all times.
The recommended adaptations and equipment must be fitted by an authorised motability installer. Documentary evidence that the installer is authorised is required.
Before you have any equipment fitted or adaptations made to your vehicle you should first contact the TfL licensing team.
Telephone: 0845 602 7000 (08:00 to 17:00 Monday to Fridays)
Email: tph.enquries@tfl.gov.uk