The Transport for London (TfL), in its general guidance on private hire vehicle law, clearly states that “touting” is not an option for PHV drivers. While taking responsibility for implementing the Mayor’s Transport Strategy, TfL recognises the pivotal role that PHVs play in the process. Therefore, if you are looking to get your PCO driver’s licence or PCO car licence in East London, it is essential to know all about your legal obligations.
The PCO Licence East London team is here to help and guide you throughout the process of PCO licensing in London, including the general laws and regulations affecting your operability. Here are some insights to help you get started on your journey.
Getting Started with the Regulations to Get a PCO Driver Licence in East London
As per the general rules set out by the UK Government, all PHV driver licences in London are regulated by TfL under a broad framework that includes registration, insurance, driver’s health, condition of the vehicle, and ensuring a safe and holistic passenger experience. Below is an overview of the criteria:
- Licensing Requirement: For applicants to qualify for a PCO driver licence in East London, it is mandatory to hold a driving licence recognised in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, and any country under the European Union or European Economic Area for at least a period of three years.
- Medical Fitness: Whether you are looking to get a new license or renew your existing PCO driver licence in East London, you must take the medical test through the TPH 204 form. The medical test is to qualify as “fit and proper” as per the DVLA Group 2 medical standards. The parameters include healthy vision, hearing, heart health, mobility, and musculoskeletal condition, as well as good psychological and neurological health.
- The DBS Check: TfL focuses on ensuring PHV drivers are of good character and reliable for delivering safe and supportive passenger care. The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check was previously known as CBS check. You must apply for a DBS check before you apply for a PCO driving licence in London. This is a comprehensive review of any criminal record, including convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. Having a criminal record does not disqualify you from applying for a PCO licence or getting it approved; each case is reviewed individually and indiscriminately.
- Pass the Topographical (map) test: To get a PCO licence in London, applicants are legally obligated to pass the Topographical (map) test. The test checks your ability to read maps, plan routes, and know about London’s geography. This is to ensure that the driver is capable of ensuring a smooth, quick, and convenient journey for passengers.
Regulations for PHV Vehicles in London
If you are looking to drive your own car and offer private hire services in London, you must ensure that your vehicle meets all the following regulations:
- All private hire vehicles used for UBER and Bolt must obtain a DVLA registration
- All vehicle taxes must be up-to-date
- You must obtain an MOT certificate
- You must ensure that your vehicle meets the standards of roadworthiness
- For displaying any kind of signage on the vehicle, all information must be compliant, up-to-date, and accurate. Any advertising content must be TfL-approved.
Tax Law for PHV Drivers in London
TfL has issued new guidelines for taxi drivers and PHV operators. If you are driving your own car with a PHV driver’s licence in London, then your income is considered a business, either as a sole proprietor or self-employed. Uber, Bolt, and other PHV drivers now have a legal obligation to record and report their income directly to HMRC and pay “taxable earnings” and National Insurance, duly.
If you are a private hire vehicle operator with your own fleet of vehicles, you must have separate tax checks for your operator licence and each PCO car licence in East London.
There are tax claims for fuel costs and vehicle maintenance, as well as TfL fees. Keeping detailed records of all the income and expenses works as a crucial piece of evidence to ensure that your tax declarations are 100% accurate and also benefit from any tax reliefs.
If you need additional help with understanding or maintaining your records, you can always turn to our experts at PCO Licence East London for detailed guidance with more clarity on all subjects.
Insurance Laws
All PHV drivers have a legal obligation to ensure proper private hire insurance. Moreover, insurance is also a pivotal part of the PCO car licence in East London. The point to be noted is that taxi drivers have a greater responsibility towards their passengers, the vehicle, and road safety. Therefore, in London, “taxi insurance” is applicable. Not adhering to the licensing laws might lead to penalties and points.
Be Legally Compliant as a PHV Driver or Operator in the City – Get in Touch with PCO Licence East London
Whether you are ready to start your journey as a PHV driver in London or looking to improve your “business”, we at PCO Licence East London can help and guide you in multiple ways. As the only provider of fast-track PCO licences in East London, we also help drivers and PHV operators get through all updates and changes in the licensing and legal process.
Remember that TfL has introduced even more stringent re-licensing guidelines, with new and improved safety and equality measures, as per the Safeguarding and Road Safety Act 2022. It is about time you had the best resources in the city to keep you compliant. Book an appointment with us today, and let’s get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is VAT Registration necessary for Uber and Bolt drivers in London?
VAT Registration is only required when the taxable earnings of a PHV driver in London exceed the VAT threshold. Most PHV drivers aren’t VAT registered in London. VAT registration is more of a need for a PHV operator with a fleet.
Q2. How many MOT Tests does a PHV driver in London need to have in a year?
All PHV Vehicles must undergo and “pass” an MOT test every 6 months throughout the validity of the respective PCO car licence in London – that is, two MOT tests each year. The test applies to all vehicles that are over one year old.
Q3. Can a PHV driver in London legally use the taxi for personal purposes?
If you hold a PCO car licence in London, it is deemed a “commercial vehicle” and thus, is legally unusable for personal purposes.
