Requirements
What does PCO stand for?
PCO stands for the Public Carriage Office. They run a special Department of Transport for London (TfL), which is awards a Licence to those who wish to work as mini cab drivers in London. The PCO Licence, also known as Private Hire Vehicle Drivers Licence is essential to work as a mini cab driver or a Chauffeur. No operator will hire you without one.
Minicab drivers and Chauffeur drivers are both licensed in the same way and make the same application, the PCO Licence. Hackney carriage drivers (London Black Cab Drivers) have a different licensing procedure, which is essentially called “The Knowledge”.
Who can apply for a PCO Licence?
The PCO wants to ensure that all drivers provide not only a professional service but also so that the public is in safe hands when entering into a Private Hire Vehicle in London. If you want to apply for a PCO Licence you will need to meet ALL these requirements.
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- You are at least 21 years old.
- You have held a DVLA, Northern Ireland or EEA (European Economic Area) driving licence for the last 3 years at least. All applicants who hold a driving licence issued by another Member State of the European Community (EC) or one of the other countries in the EEA are required to obtain a UK counterpart document (DVLA).
- You meet the meet the Medical Standards outlined for DVLA Group 2, that are similar to what is required for coach, bus and large goods vehicle drivers. In order to confirm that you meet these medical standards you need to have a full medical check with your GP.
- You must be of good character. For this, you have to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (previously known as CRB check) with TMGCRB that proves you are a trustworthy and honest person (Criminal record check).
- You have evidence that you have the relevant Topographical Skills that you have the necessary route finding and map reading skills necessary for working as a private hire or mini cab driver in London.
- You must be able to speak, read and understand English, so as to be able to provide a service to the diverse population of London and tourists
