PCO Minicab Driver Training

PCO stands for the Public Carriage Office. They run a unique Department of Transport for London (TfL), which awards a Licence to those who wish to work as minicab drivers in London. The PCO Licence, also known as the Private Hire Vehicle Drivers Licence, is essential to work as a minicab driver or a Chauffeur. No operator will hire you without one. Minicab and Chauffeur drivers are licensed the same way and make the same application, the PCO Licence. Hackney carriage drivers (London Black Cab Drivers) have a different licensing procedure, which is essentially called “The Knowledge”.

Who can apply for a PCO Licence?

The PCO wants to ensure that all drivers provide a professional service and that the public is in safe hands when entering into a Private Hire Vehicle in London. If you want to apply for a PCO Licence, you must meet ALL these requirements.

• You are at least 21 years old.
• At least you have held a DVLA, Northern Ireland or EEA (European Economic Area) driving licence for the last three years. All applicants who hold a driving licence issued by another Member State of the European Community (EC) or one of the other countries in the EEA are required to obtain a UK counterpart document (DVLA).
• You meet the medical standards outlined for DVLA Group 2, similar to those required for coach, bus and significant goods vehicle drivers. To confirm that you meet these medical standards, you must have a complete medical check with your GP.
• You must be of good character. For this, you have to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (previously known as CRB check) with TMGCRB that proves you are a trustworthy and honest person (Criminal record check).
• You have evidence that you have the relevant Topographical Skills and the necessary route-finding and map-reading skills for working as a private hire or minicab driver in London.
• You must be able to speak, read and understand English to serve the diverse London population and tourists.

Our specialists in training new professional drivers are highly competent in delivering quality training, ensuring that you can be prepared for all tests and work on the streets at the end of the course. If you want to participate in our training, please get in touch with us. It will be a pleasure to serve you and prepare you to work!