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London PHV licence documents checklist

Get your papers ready before you start. This checklist uses what TfL lists on its private hire driver licence page.

Quick facts

Your given names must match on every document
You need an Enhanced DBS and the DBS Update Service
A medical to the DVLA Group 2 standard (form TPH/204)
A Certificate of Good Conduct only if you lived abroad 3+ months in the last 10 years
TfL says it does not offer a fast-track service. Do not pay a site that promises one

From TfL, checked 13 October 2026. Check TfL for the latest fees.

The checklist

Driving licence. Full DVLA, Northern Ireland or EEA licence, held at least 3 years.
Right to work in the UK. You must have the right to live and work in the UK.
Identity documents. All given names must appear on the licence. Same spelling and order on every document.
Photo. Must follow TfL photo guidance.
Enhanced DBS certificate number. You apply through TfL's authorised provider.
DBS Update Service. Join within 30 days of the certificate being issued (GOV.UK). TfL cannot grant a licence without it.
Medical form TPH/204. DVLA Group 2 standard. A doctor completes it. Some people are exempt.
Certificate of Good Conduct and form TPH/205. Only if you lived abroad for 3 months or more in one stretch in the last 10 years. One for each country.
HMRC tax step. First-time applicants confirm they read HMRC guidance. If you held a licence in the last 12 months you need a tax check code.
Safeguarding Awareness course record. TfL expects you to finish it before SERU.
Assessment results. Speaking and listening, SERU, and topographical (unless exempt).

The boxes on this page are only for show. Tick them on paper, or track them in the Licence Companion.

If you lived abroad

TfL asks for a Certificate of Good Conduct for each country where you lived 3 months or more in one stretch in the last 10 years. Long holidays count. Start early. Each country sets its own process and price, and TfL does not control that.

Tips

Write your full name the same way every time.
Keep photos and scans of everything.
Keep the DBS certificate number safe. You need it for the Update Service.

Next: the full step-by-step guide.

Licence Companion

These pages stay free. The Licence Companion is a personal checklist: tick each step, add your own dates, and get an email reminder. See it with the other plans.

Practise for the SERU test

Free timed paper, 36 questions, no sign-up.

Take the free SERU test

Common questions

What ID do I need?

TfL says all your given names must appear on the licence, and your documents should match in spelling and order. Check the TfL page for the list of accepted documents.

Do I need a tax check code?

Only if you hold, or in the last 12 months held, a TfL or other licence. First-time applicants confirm they have read the HMRC guidance.

Who needs a Certificate of Good Conduct?

Anyone who lived outside the UK for 3 months or more in one stretch in the last 10 years. One certificate for each country.

Do I need a medical?

TfL says you must meet the DVLA Group 2 standard, usually with a doctor's exam and form TPH/204. Some people are exempt. Read TfL's rules before you pay a doctor.

More guides

Sources

TfL, Private hire driver licence (checked 13 October 2026)
TfL, English language requirement (checked 13 October 2026)
TfL, Topographical skills assessment (checked 13 October 2026)
TfL, SERU for private hire drivers (checked 13 October 2026)
TfL, Notice 05/26, taxi and private hire licence fees (13 March 2026)
GOV.UK, DBS Update Service (checked 13 October 2026)

This is an independent guide by MiniSage Tech Ltd. It is not from TfL. It is not legal or immigration advice. We cannot guarantee any result. TfL can change fees and rules at any time: check TfL for the latest fees and rules before you pay or book. Last checked 13 October 2026.

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