Key Considerations For Applying For Pco Vehicle Licence Online In London

By Author: James Aaron
Total Articles: 8
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The rules for obtaining a PCO licence differ widely depending on where you apply. TfL handles it in London, so if you wish to become a PCO driver in this city, you must go through the TfL application procedure.

As part of the ongoing modernisation of their services, Transport for London (TfL) encourages applicants to apply for licences online to make the process quicker and smoother. The key benefit of the online procedure is that it is right in front of you. Online processes do not require you to visit the office in person, and moreover, there are certain monetary benefits; for example, the DBS disclosure application costs only £52 via online processing, whereas it costs £54 through physical paperwork.

Find The Right Touchpoints When You Are Applying Online

The online application is conducted on the official TfL website for the most up-to-date information and requirements during the application process. However, It can be a bit tricky to find the information. Below are some of the core information that you need to understand well.

• English Language Requirement:

Applicants ...
... whose first language is not English may need to prove their English proficiency. This can be done by providing evidence of passing an approved English language test.

• Topographical Skills Assessment (TSA):

You'll need to pass a Topographical Skills Assessment to demonstrate your knowledge of London's geography, routes, and landmarks. This is a crucial step to ensure you can navigate the city effectively.

• Medical Examination:

Undergo a medical examination to meet TfL's medical standards. This examination will assess your overall health and ability to operate a private hire vehicle safely.

Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check:
Applicants must undergo an enhanced DBS check to ensure they do not have a criminal record that would make them unfit for the role of a private hire driver.

• Vehicle Requirements:

Ensure your vehicle meets the requirements set by TfL for private hire vehicles. These standards cover factors such as vehicle age, emissions, and safety features.

• Hire and Reward Insurance:

Obtain the appropriate hire and reward insurance coverage for your private hire vehicle. This insurance is specifically designed for PHV operators and provides the necessary coverage for carrying passengers for hire.

Tip: If you can’t find the relevant webpage on the TfL website about PCO applications online, simply search for them on Google; it will be easier.

What Are The Entitlements?

Before submitting your application, always cross-check the entitlements of new and currently working private hire drivers, including average working hours, total income and outlay costs of vehicle (rental or purchased), supplementary accessories, and the additional costs of hire and reward insurance. Moreover, you must also determine whether your vehicle will be subject to the Congestion Charge and the Ultra emission zone.

Renewal of PCO Vehicle Licence

The operator’s licence has a validity period of five years. After this period, the licence must be renewed, and it is better to initiate the renewal before the current licence runs out.
The TfL sends reminders for renewal via email and mail as early as six months from the expiration date.

From April 2022, new PCO drivers will be required to demonstrate that they are aware of HMRC instructions on their tax duties in the UK. If you are renewing an existing PCO licence, you must additionally give a tax-check number obtained from the Government Gateway website, which verifies that you have registered to pay tax with HMRC.

The online process makes it easier to respond to the renewal since emails are already filled with useful links that you just have to click to get started. The authority also sends drivers a re-licensing packet.

Author Bio:

The author is professionally related to a leading PCO licencing centre in London. She contributes to this article section to offer essential industrial news and know-how for minicab drivers in the UK so that they can keep themselves informed while carrying out a satisfactory business or job.