Private Hire Vehicle Driver

Section 1: London PHV Driver Licensing

London PHV Driver Licensing Requirements and Guidelines To work as a London Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) driver, you must be licensed by Transport for London (TfL). This guide outlines the licensing requirements, conditions, and responsibilities for PHV drivers in London. Licensing Requirements Age: You must be 21 or older. Driving Licence: You need a full DVLA, Northern Ireland, EU, or EEA state driving licence that is at least three years old. Right to Work: You must have the right to live and work in the UK. Criminal Records Check: An enhanced DBS check is required to confirm you are a 'fit and proper' person. Medical Fitness: You must meet DVLA Group 2 medical standards, verified by a doctor with access to your full medical records. Topographical Skills Assessment: You must pass a test to demonstrate your ability to select and plan routes, read maps, and identify locations. English Language Proficiency: You must have at least a B1 level of English in the CEFR and pass a test for English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Private Hire Driver’s Licence Approval and Conditions: Upon approval, TfL will issue a licence with potential conditions, such as additional medical checks if you have a medical condition. Non-compliance with these conditions may lead to licence revocation. Communication: Stay in contact with TfL and respond promptly to any communications. Licence Duration: Typically, licences last for three years. Keep your licence safe and provide a copy to any licensed private hire operator you work with. Displaying Licence: Show your licence to police officers or TfL Authorised Officers upon request within seven days. Ensure your PHV operator retains copies of your licences. PHV Driver’s Badge Usage: Wear your badge at all times while working, ensuring it is visible. It displays your name, photograph, licence number, and expiry date. Exemptions: If exempt from wearing the badge, carry your exemption notice. Lost Badge: Report lost or stolen badges immediately to TfL, and to the police if stolen. You cannot work without it. Medical Conditions Examinations: Regular medical exams are required. From age 45, exams are needed for each licence renewal; annually from age 65. New Conditions: Inform TfL of any new medical conditions that may affect your driving. Updates: Check DVLA for updates on medical standards. Change of Address Notify TfL within 21 days of any address change. The address on your PHV driver’s licence must match your DVLA licence. Personal Circumstances and Legal Issues Legal Changes: Inform TfL immediately if you are disqualified from driving, subject to mental health or sexual offences orders, on the Barred Lists, or have any changes related to licences from other authorities. Offences: Report any arrests, charges, convictions, cautions, or road traffic offences to TfL. Failure to do so can result in licence revocation. Penalties and Tickets: You do not need to report PCNs or parking tickets unless they result in penalty points. Frequent PCNs may result in licensing action. Right to Work in the UK Visa Conditions: Comply with work hour limitations and employment conditions based on your visa status. Complaints and Conduct Complaints: Respond promptly to TfL regarding any complaints or unsatisfactory behaviour. Licence Revocation: Return your licence to TfL within seven days if revoked. TfL may revoke your vehicle licence if it poses a public safety risk. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) DBS Checks: Undergo an enhanced DBS check through TfL’s designated company to obtain your DBS certificate. By following these guidelines, you ensure compliance with TfL regulations and maintain your status as a licensed PHV driver in London.