London – Transport for London (TfL)
In London, all private hire (minicab/PCO) drivers are licensed by Transport for London (TfL).
To become a licensed PCO driver, applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Hold a full UK or EU/EEA driving licence for a minimum of 3 years
- Pass an enhanced DBS (criminal background) check
- Complete a Group 2 medical examination
- Demonstrate English language proficiency (test or qualification)
- Pass the Topographical Skills Assessment (map and route-planning test)
- Pass the SERU Assessment (Safety, Equality & Regulatory Understanding)
- Submit a full online application with supporting documents
Once licensed, a driver can work with any TfL-approved operator and drive any TfL-licensed PHV vehicle.
Elmbridge (Surrey) – Elmbridge Borough Council
Taxi and private hire drivers in Elmbridge are licensed by Elmbridge Borough Council.
Applicants must:
- Pass an Elmbridge Knowledge Test, covering local area routes and licensing rules
- Complete an enhanced DBS check and join the DBS Update Service
- Provide a DVLA Group 2 medical report, completed by a GP
- Show proof of right to work in the UK
- Provide identity documents, driving licence, and address verification
- Meet “fit and proper” standards regarding driving history and character
Elmbridge also sets requirements for training, safeguarding awareness, and ongoing compliance. Processing time for new licences is usually around 30 working days after all documents are received.
Runnymede (Surrey) – Runnymede Borough Council
Taxi and private hire drivers in Runnymede are licensed by Runnymede Borough Council.
Requirements include:
- Passing a Runnymede Knowledge Test on routes, road safety, and licensing rules
- Completing an enhanced DBS check (with mandatory DBS Update Service subscription)
- Passing a Group 2 medical examination
- Providing proof of right to work in the UK
- Completing mandatory Safeguarding & Disability Awareness Training
- Providing original identity documents and licence history
- Meeting “fit and proper person” criteria
Drivers must notify the council of any licence changes, convictions, or address changes.
Epsom & Ewell (Surrey) – Epsom & Ewell Borough Council
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council licenses both hackney carriage and private hire drivers.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Hold a full UK or EU licence for at least 3 years
- Complete an enhanced DBS check and provide a 5-year address history (or certificate of good conduct if lived abroad)
- Provide a Group 2 DVLA medical report
- Pass a comprehensive Knowledge Test, covering:
- Local geography and landmarks
- Highway Code
- Licence conditions
- Numeracy and English comprehension
- Complete safeguarding training (including child sexual exploitation awareness)
- Provide right-to-work documentation, identity documents, and a passport-style photograph
Drivers over age 45 must renew medicals every 5 years, and annually after age 65.
