To apply for a PCO license, you need to do is complete an online application form on the TfL website. The application has two parts
a) Initial checks
Criminal (DBS) Check: You must be of good character. To establish this you will be required to undertake an ‘enhanced’ criminal records check from DBS through our authorised service provider.
§ Medical Test: You must be medically fit which means meeting the DVLA Group 2 standards.. In most cases, this will mean that you will have to undergo a medical examination with someone who has access to your full medical history
b) PCO /PHV tests / Exam
§ You will need to pass two separate assessments: a speaking and listening assessment and Reading and Writting . From 1 October 2021,The Speaking and Listening will take place at TfL’s offices .The assessment will consist of a 15-20 minute conversation. Similarly, Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) assessment which is used to determine your reading and writing skills. The SERU assessment is computer-based and it is delivered by TfL staff at TfL offices. It will involve multiple choice questions and completing sentences by adding missing words. Further information on what to expect on the day will be provided once an assessment booking has been confirmed.
§ You will need to undertake a topographical skills assessment at one of the TfL driver assessment centres. Topographical skills test structure
v The topographical skills test contains following four sections to test all aspects of map reading skills.
v The four sections are as follows:
v Using indexes to identify points/locations
v Using a map to identify directions and points/locations
v To plan a route between two locations
v To demonstrate knowledge of compass points within directional based questions
Note, if you’re applying to become an Uber driver, then you’ll also need to pass Uber- Topographical Assessment, which consists of map reading. This takes place at their very own Ignition Centre and tends to cost around £50.
Important Note: (Safeguarding Awareness)
All applicants are expected to undertake the online Safeguarding Awareness training course prior to undertaking the SERU assessment. This course contains important information on protecting children and vulnerable adults at risk from harm and abuse which is a topic that is covered within the SERU assessment.
More information on the introduction of the Safeguarding Awareness course is available in TPH Notice 13/21 and on our Safeguarding Awareness webpage.
