PCO Licence, also known as the Private Hire Driver Licence, is a licence issued by the PCO (Public Carriage Office), who are part of Transport for London (TfL)12. It is essential to work as a minicab driver or a chauffeur in London123. The licence is valid for 3 years1. Minicab drivers and chauffeur drivers are both licensed in the same way and make the same application

1. Make sure you’re eligible

2. Complete an enhanced DBS check

3. Get a medical exam

4. Get the right to work check

5. Apply online for the PCO licence

6. Take the TfL English test

7. Take the TfL Seru assessment

8. Register with HMRC

9. Take the TfL topographical assessment

10. Start earning
    

TfL will sometimes issue a PCO licence to new drivers who already have up to nine penalty points on their driving licence but it might affect your ability to get insurance.

It generally takes between 12-16 weeks for your PCO application to be fully processed.

• In London, £32 303 a year, which is comfortably above the London living wage of £11.05

• Also, £33 800 a year, with even higher earning potential of over £46 000 for more experienced drivers – According to Talent.com

Once your PCO licence is issued, it will be valid for three years.

No. There are currently no provisions to exempt licensed private hire vehicles from bus lane regulations

The cost of doing your Topographical assessment is £36, which you pay TfL. If you do not pass the first time, you can re-sit the Topographical assessment for £16. If you fail the second time, you will need to restart the full Private Hire Licence application and pay the full fees again.

As an Uber driver in London, your earnings will depend on various factors such as the number of trips completed, peak hours, and the type of vehicle you drive. On average, Uber drivers in London can earn around £15-£20 per hour, with the potential to earn more during busy periods. Additionally, Uber offers various incentives and bonuses that can further increase your earnings. It's important to note that your actual earnings may vary based on your availability and other external factors, but with flexibility and strategic planning, driving with Uber in London can be a lucrative opportunity. If you have further questions about earnings or incentives, feel free to reach out to Uber's support team for more information.