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How long does a London PHV licence take?
The honest answer: TfL does not give a fixed time. This page shows what TfL says and which steps usually take the longest, so you can plan.
Quick facts
- TfL gives no fixed processing time
- TfL says new applications currently take longer than normal
- TfL processes applications in the order it receives them
- There is no fast-track. TfL says anyone selling one is acting fraudulently
- You must join the DBS Update Service within 30 days of the certificate (GOV.UK)
What TfL says
TfL says it aims to process applications in a reasonable time. It says new applications are taking longer than normal. It processes them in the order it receives them. It also points to TPH Notice 06/26, which gives advice on avoiding delays. We do not give a number of weeks, because TfL does not, and we cannot check one.
Steps that can take time
| Step | What we know |
|---|---|
| Enhanced DBS | TfL gives no time |
| Medical | Depends on doctor appointments |
| Certificate of Good Conduct | Depends on the country |
| English speaking and listening | The test is 15 to 20 minutes. TfL gives no waiting time for a date |
| SERU and topographical | TfL gives no waiting time for a date |
| TfL decision | TfL gives no fixed time |
How to plan
- Start the slow steps first: DBS, medical, and any certificate from abroad.
- Study for SERU while you wait. Use the free timed practice test.
- Keep your documents ready so you can answer TfL fast if it asks for more.
- Do not plan to start work on a fixed date until TfL has granted your licence.
No fast-track
TfL says it does not offer a fast-track service. Anyone who sells one is acting fraudulently. Report it to tphreport@tfl.gov.uk. Do not pay anyone for a faster decision.
Next: 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.
Common questions
How long does it take to get a London PHV licence?
TfL gives no fixed time. It says it aims to process applications in a reasonable time, and that new applications currently take longer than normal. We do not give a number because we cannot check one.
Which steps can I do at the same time?
TfL does not set one order. Many people start the slow steps first: the DBS check, the medical, and any Certificate of Good Conduct, and study for the tests while they wait. Check TfL for what is allowed.
Can I make TfL go faster?
No. TfL says it does not offer a fast-track service. Applications are processed in the order TfL receives them.
What can delay my application?
TfL says its page and Notice 06/26 give advice on avoiding delays. Missing documents and names that do not match are easy mistakes to avoid. Answer any TfL request for information quickly.
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)