PCO licence hero
DRIVER LICENSING

DO YOU NEED A
PCO LICENCE?

A PCO (Private Hire) licence is a legal requirement to drive professionally in London. Here is everything you need to know — and how we help you get there faster.

APPLY TO DRIVE WITH USSEE THE STEPS
THE BASICS

WHAT IS A PCO LICENCE?

A PCO licence (also called a TfL Private Hire Vehicle driver's licence) is a legal authorisation issued by Transport for London (TfL) that permits you to carry passengers for hire or reward in a private hire vehicle.

It is separate from your standard driving licence. Every professional driver working for companies like Riide must hold a valid PCO licence.

Required by law to drive professionally in London
Issued by Transport for London (TfL)
Renewable every 3 years
Covers any TfL-licensed private hire operator
Riide supports drivers through the entire process
THE PROCESS

HOW TO GET YOUR PCO LICENCE

01

Medical Certificate

Complete a DVLA Group 2 medical examination with a registered GP. This confirms you are medically fit to drive professionally.

1–2 weeks
02

Enhanced DBS Check

Apply for an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check via TfL's approved route. This verifies your criminal record background.

2–4 weeks
03

Topographical Skills Assessment

Pass TfL's online test demonstrating knowledge of London geography, traffic management and road safety.

1–2 weeks prep
04

English Language Check

Demonstrate sufficient English language ability — typically evidenced through a recognised qualification or previous assessment.

Varies
05

TfL Application

Submit your full PCO licence application to Transport for London (TfL) through their online portal, including all supporting documents.

4–6 weeks
06

Licence Granted

Once approved, your PCO licence is issued. You are now licensed to drive professionally for a private hire operator like Riide.

Total: ~3–4 months
RIIDE SUPPORT

WE HELP YOU
EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Our driver licensing team has guided hundreds of drivers through the PCO process. We provide step-by-step support, document checklists, medical referrals and application reviews — completely free of charge.

GET STARTED
Free licensing support team
Medical examination referrals
Document checklist provided
TfL application guidance
Licensing timeline planning
Vehicle sourcing if needed
PCO LICENCE FAQs

COMMON QUESTIONS

What is a PCO licence?

A PCO (Private Hire Operator) licence, also known as a TfL Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) driver's licence in London, authorises you to drive for a private hire operator. Without it, driving commercially for services like Riide is not legally permitted in London.

How long does it take to get a PCO licence?

The process typically takes 3 to 4 months from start to finish, depending on how quickly you complete the medical, DBS check, and TfL assessment. Riide's support team can help expedite some of these steps.

How much does a PCO licence cost?

Total costs vary but typically range between £250–£500, including the medical, DBS, topographical test and TfL application fee. Riide provides a detailed breakdown and financial guidance to new applicants.

Can Riide help me get my PCO licence?

Yes. We have a dedicated licensing support team who guide drivers through every step — from booking the medical to submitting the TfL application. We've helped hundreds of drivers obtain their PCO licences.

Do I need a PCO-licensed vehicle?

Yes. Your vehicle must also be separately licensed as a private hire vehicle. If you don't yet have a qualifying vehicle, Riide can connect you with our rental and lease partners.