How to Renew Your PCO Licence in London: A Complete Guide
If you work as a private hire driver in London, keeping your PCO licence valid is essential if you want to continue working legally with private hire operators and platforms.
The term PCO licence is commonly used by drivers to describe the TfL Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) driver licence, which is regulated by Transport for London (TfL).
Renewing your PCO licence in London does not have to be difficult, but it is important to understand the requirements, documents, DBS checks, medical requirements and application process before your current licence expires.
This complete guide explains how to renew your PCO licence in London, what documents you may need, when you should apply, how long the process can take and what can cause delays.
Important: The requirements below reflect TfL guidance available in 2026. Always check the latest TfL requirements before submitting your renewal application because licensing rules and procedures can change.
What Is a PCO Licence in London?
A PCO licence is the common name used by many London private hire drivers when referring to a TfL PHV driver licence.
Transport for London is responsible for licensing private hire drivers, private hire vehicles and private hire operators in London.
If you want to drive passengers for a private hire company, minicab business or app-based private hire platform in London, you generally need to hold the appropriate TfL private hire driver licence.
The licence helps demonstrate that a driver has satisfied the relevant licensing requirements, including requirements relating to driving, character, medical fitness and other regulatory matters.
For this reason, PCO licence renewal should be treated as an important part of maintaining your ability to work as a private hire driver in London.
When Should You Renew Your PCO Licence?
One of the most important questions drivers ask is: “When can I renew my PCO licence?”
According to TfL's current policy, drivers can apply to renew their taxi or private hire driver licence up to four months before the existing licence expires.
Applying early is strongly recommended because TfL needs time to complete the necessary checks and processes before a renewed licence can be issued.
For example, if your PCO licence expires in December, you should not wait until the final few days before expiry to begin preparing your renewal application.
Starting the process early gives you an opportunity to identify problems with documents, DBS information, medical requirements or other licensing requirements.
Why Early PCO Licence Renewal Is Important
Submitting your renewal application early can reduce the risk of being unable to work because your licence has expired.
TfL has stated that renewal applications are being prioritised and that drivers approaching expiry remain an important priority for the licensing service.
However, TfL also advises drivers to submit renewal applications as early as possible because circumstances outside the authority's control can sometimes increase processing times.
This means that renewing your PCO licence before it expires is much safer than waiting until the last minute.
How to Renew Your PCO Licence in London
The PCO licence renewal process involves submitting an application to TfL and providing the information and evidence required for your circumstances.
Although an existing driver may not have to provide every document required for a completely new applicant, TfL treats a renewal application as effectively an application for a new licence while taking the driver's previous licensing history into consideration.
The exact requirements can vary from one driver to another.
Generally, you should be prepared to provide your completed application, photograph, DBS Update Service evidence, right-to-work evidence, driving licence information, relevant codes and the applicable fee.
Drivers may also need to provide additional information depending on their age, circumstances, overseas residence history or other licensing matters.
Step 1: Check Your PCO Licence Expiry Date
Before beginning your PCO licence renewal in London, check the expiry date printed on your current licence.
Knowing your expiry date allows you to determine when you can submit your renewal application.
Remember that TfL's policy allows drivers to apply for renewal up to four months before the expiry of the existing licence.
Do not assume that you should wait until your licence is about to expire.
Instead, use the four-month window to prepare your documents, check your DBS position and deal with any medical or other requirements that may apply to you.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Before submitting your TfL PCO licence renewal application, make sure you have the relevant information and documents available.
TfL's current policy identifies several items that must be submitted for a renewal application.
These include a correctly completed application form, photograph, evidence of DBS Update Service subscription, evidence of the right to live and work in the UK, a copy of your driving licence, a DVLA licence share code where applicable, a HMRC tax check code and the appropriate fee.
The following checklist can help you prepare.
PCO Licence Renewal Checklist
Your renewal requirements may include:
Completed PCO/TfL renewal application
Recent photograph
DBS Update Service evidence
Evidence of your right to live and work in the UK
Valid driving licence
DVLA driving licence share code where applicable
HMRC tax check code
Applicable renewal fee
Medical declaration where required
Living and Working Abroad form where applicable
Certificate of Good Conduct where applicable
Not every driver will need every additional document.
Your personal circumstances determine which supporting information TfL will require.
Step 3: Check Your DBS Update Service
Your DBS check is an important part of the private hire driver licensing process.
TfL assesses the character of taxi and private hire driver applicants and renewing drivers, including through enhanced DBS information and information provided by the DVLA.
For renewal applications, TfL's policy specifically lists evidence of subscription to the DBS Update Service among the required renewal information.
This is one reason why private hire drivers should not ignore their DBS obligations.
If you are approaching PCO licence renewal, check that your DBS information is in order before submitting your application.
What Happens If Your DBS Information Causes a Problem?
A DBS issue does not necessarily mean that your PCO licence renewal will automatically be refused.
TfL considers licensing matters on an individual basis and assesses whether drivers meet the relevant requirements.
However, information arising from DBS checks, DVLA records or other sources can affect the assessment of whether a driver meets the required licensing standards.
TfL explains that private hire driver licensing involves assessing whether applicants and renewing drivers meet the relevant criteria, including character requirements.
If TfL requests additional information from you, respond as quickly and accurately as possible.
Step 4: Complete the HMRC Tax Check
Another important part of the modern PCO licence renewal process is the HMRC tax check.
TfL's current driver policy lists a HMRC tax check code among the requirements for licence renewal.
The tax check is part of the licensing process and should therefore be completed correctly before you submit your renewal application.
If you have questions about your tax responsibilities, consider obtaining professional tax advice rather than guessing what information you need to provide.
Keeping your tax affairs organised can also make future licensing and administrative processes easier.
Step 5: Check Your Driving Licence
Your DVLA driving licence must be valid for the PCO licence renewal process.
TfL's policy states that a valid photocard driving licence must be held before TfL will renew a taxi or PHV driver licence.
You may also need to provide a DVLA licence share code as part of the renewal process.
Before submitting your PCO renewal application, check that your driving licence details are correct.
If there has been a change to your personal information or driving entitlement, make sure the relevant records have been updated.
Step 6: Check Whether You Need a Medical Examination
Medical requirements are particularly important for some drivers renewing a PCO licence.
TfL's current policy states that PHV drivers aged 45 or over on the date their existing licence expires must provide a medical declaration completed by a doctor with full access to their medical history.
This means you should not leave medical requirements until the last minute.
If a medical declaration applies to you, arrange it early enough to allow your doctor to complete the required paperwork.
The medical requirements are designed to ensure that drivers meet the appropriate standards for driving safely.
PCO Licence Renewal for Drivers Aged 45 and Over
If you are approaching your 45th birthday or are already over 45, pay particular attention to the medical requirements.
Your age at the time your existing licence expires can determine whether the medical declaration requirement applies.
A common mistake is to focus only on the application form and forget about the medical paperwork.
If your renewal requires a medical declaration, an incomplete or incorrectly completed form can delay your application.
For this reason, check the latest TfL medical guidance before arranging your appointment.
Step 7: Check Whether You Have Lived or Worked Abroad
Your overseas residence history can also affect your PCO licence renewal requirements.
TfL states that a driver who has lived abroad for three months or more during the period of the existing licence must complete a Living and Working Abroad form and provide a Certificate of Good Conduct from every relevant country.
This requirement is important for drivers who have spent significant periods outside the UK.
If this applies to you, do not wait until TfL asks for the information before starting to gather it.
Obtaining documents from another country can take time, so early preparation is particularly important.
Step 8: Submit Your PCO Licence Renewal Application
Once you have checked your requirements and gathered the necessary information, you can submit your renewal application through the appropriate TfL process.
Make sure every section of your application is completed accurately.
Incorrect information, missing documents or unanswered questions can create unnecessary delays.
TfL has previously explained that incomplete or inaccurate applications can increase the time required to process a licensing application.
Before submitting your application, review everything carefully.
How Long Does PCO Licence Renewal Take?
One of the most common questions from London private hire drivers is:
“How long does it take to renew a PCO licence?”
There is no universal processing time that applies to every driver because applications can differ depending on individual circumstances and the checks that need to be completed.
However, TfL reported in March 2026 that its licensing service had reached a consistently steady operating position and that it aimed to review renewal applications within around 10 working days of receipt.
This should not be interpreted as a guaranteed licence-issue timeframe.
A review of an application is not necessarily the same thing as completion of every licensing check.
Why Can PCO Licence Renewal Be Delayed?
Several factors can affect the time required to process a PCO licence renewal application.
One of the most obvious problems is submitting an incomplete application.
If TfL needs additional documents or clarification, the application may take longer because the authority must wait for the required information.
Medical checks, DBS matters, overseas documentation, driving licence information and other individual circumstances can also affect processing.
What Should You Do If TfL Requests More Information?
If TfL contacts you requesting additional information, respond as soon as possible.
Do not ignore emails or letters from the licensing authority.
A delayed response from the applicant can contribute to the overall time required to complete the application.
Keep copies of documents you submit and make a note of important correspondence relating to your renewal.
Good record keeping can make it much easier to respond if you need to clarify something later.
Can You Work While Your PCO Licence Is Being Renewed?
This is an important question for private hire drivers who rely on driving as their source of income.
You should not assume that submitting a renewal application automatically gives you permission to continue working indefinitely after your existing licence expires.
The legal position depends on your individual licensing circumstances and any temporary or continued licensing arrangements provided by TfL.
TfL has stated that it aims to support existing drivers and, where appropriate and where specific criteria are met, may issue short-term PHV driver licences.
Therefore, if your licence is approaching expiry and your renewal has not yet been completed, check your current status directly with TfL rather than relying on assumptions.
What Is a Short-Term PCO Licence?
A short-term PHV driver licence can help qualifying existing drivers continue to remain licensed while the licensing process is completed.
TfL introduced measures to support existing drivers during periods of licensing-service disruption.
The availability of a short-term licence should not be regarded as automatic.
TfL determines whether a driver meets the relevant criteria before issuing such a licence.
PCO Licence Renewal and the SERU Requirement
Another term drivers may encounter is SERU, which stands for Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding.
SERU is part of TfL's private hire driver licensing requirements and has been mandatory for relevant drivers since 1 October 2021.
TfL strongly recommends that applicants for new or renewal PHV driver licences undertake its safeguarding awareness course before sitting the SERU requirement assessment.
The safeguarding course is free and can be completed on a computer, tablet or mobile device.
Drivers should make sure they understand which assessments apply to their individual renewal circumstances.
Is the Topographical Assessment Required for PCO Licence Renewal?
Topographical skills form part of London's private hire driver licensing framework.
However, renewal requirements are not necessarily identical to those faced by a completely new applicant.
TfL's policy states that a renewal application takes the driver's existing licensing history into consideration and does not necessarily require previously licensed drivers to provide all of the evidence required for a first application.
Therefore, do not assume that you must repeat every assessment simply because you are renewing your PCO licence.
Instead, check the specific requirements TfL gives you for your renewal application.
PCO Licence Renewal vs New PCO Licence Application
It is useful to understand the difference between renewing an existing licence and applying for a PCO licence for the first time.
A new applicant generally has to satisfy the full range of requirements applicable to a new private hire driver.
An existing driver applying for renewal benefits from TfL considering their previous licensing history.
This does not mean renewal is automatic.
TfL still needs to establish that the driver meets the requirements for licensing and may request information or evidence where necessary.
Common PCO Licence Renewal Mistakes
Many renewal problems can be avoided by preparing early.
One common mistake is waiting until the final weeks before expiry to begin the renewal process.
Another mistake is submitting an application without checking whether supporting documents are complete and current.
A third mistake is failing to respond quickly when TfL asks for additional information.
Mistake 1: Waiting Until Your Licence Expires
Waiting until your PCO licence has already expired can create unnecessary pressure.
Even when an application has been submitted, you should understand your actual licensing position before continuing to accept private hire work.
Apply within the permitted renewal window and allow sufficient time for checks.
Early preparation is one of the simplest ways to reduce avoidable problems.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Your DBS Status
Your DBS status is an important part of the licensing process.
If your renewal requires evidence of your DBS Update Service subscription, make sure you have the relevant evidence available.
Do not assume that because you passed a DBS check several years ago, you can ignore the current requirements.
Mistake 3: Forgetting the Medical Requirement
Drivers aged 45 and over should pay particular attention to the medical declaration requirements.
If a medical declaration is required, arrange the appointment early.
Waiting until your licence is about to expire can create unnecessary pressure if your doctor needs additional information.
Mistake 4: Providing Incorrect Information
Always check your application before submitting it.
Your name, address, driving licence information, dates and other personal details should be accurate.
Incorrect information can result in requests for clarification and may delay processing.
Mistake 5: Ignoring Emails From TfL
If TfL contacts you about your application, respond promptly.
A request for additional information should be treated as an important part of your renewal process.
Keep your contact details up to date and regularly check the email address associated with your licensing application.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a PCO Licence?
The cost of renewing a PCO licence can depend on the applicable TfL fee structure at the time you apply.
Because fees can change, drivers should check the current TfL fee information before making payment.
Do not rely on old articles, social media posts or information from other drivers when determining the current price.
The safest approach is to confirm the applicable fee directly through TfL's official private hire licensing information.
Can You Renew Your PCO Licence Online?
TfL has developed online licensing services for taxi and private hire drivers.
The exact online process and services available can change as TfL updates its licensing systems.
Drivers should therefore use the current TfL licensing portal and follow the instructions provided for their particular application.
Avoid entering personal information into unofficial websites claiming to renew your PCO licence.
What Happens After You Submit Your Renewal?
Once your application has been submitted, TfL will review the information and conduct the relevant checks.
The application may involve checks relating to your licensing history, driving record, DBS information, right to work, tax check and medical fitness where applicable.
TfL may also contact you if further information is required.
The application is not necessarily completed simply because the online form has been submitted.
How TfL Assesses Private Hire Drivers
Private hire driver licensing is designed to protect passengers and maintain standards within London's private hire industry.
TfL considers whether drivers meet the required licensing criteria.
Character, driving history, medical fitness and other relevant information may form part of the assessment.
TfL has stated that the licensing process includes consideration of information from sources including DBS and DVLA records.
What Does “Fit and Proper” Mean?
You may hear the phrase “fit and proper” when researching PCO licence renewal.
It is an important concept in private hire driver licensing.
TfL uses relevant licensing requirements and information to determine whether a driver meets the standards necessary to hold a private hire driver licence.
This can involve consideration of character, driving information and other relevant circumstances.
The assessment is intended to protect passengers and maintain confidence in London's licensed private hire industry.
PCO Licence Renewal After Driving Offences
If you have received penalty points, a conviction, caution or other relevant matter during the period of your current licence, you should not assume that it can simply be ignored.
TfL has processes for considering relevant information relating to drivers.
The appropriate response depends on the circumstances and the applicable reporting requirements.
Where you are unsure whether something must be disclosed, check the current TfL guidance or obtain appropriate professional advice rather than making an assumption.
Changes to Your Personal Details
If your circumstances have changed since your previous PCO licence application, make sure your information is accurate.
Changes could include your address, driving licence details or other information relevant to your licensing record.
Keeping licensing information accurate is an important part of being a professional private hire driver.
If you are unsure how to report a particular change, contact TfL using its official driver licensing channels.
PCO Licence Renewal for Uber, Bolt and Other Private Hire Drivers
Many London private hire drivers work through app-based platforms such as Uber, Bolt and other private hire operators.
However, the platform you use does not replace the requirement to maintain the appropriate TfL private hire driver licensing status.
Your relationship with an operator or app and your TfL licensing obligations are separate matters.
You should therefore make sure your PCO licence remains valid regardless of which private hire platform you use.
Does Your PCO Licence Cover Your Vehicle?
Another common misunderstanding concerns the difference between a private hire driver licence and a private hire vehicle licence.
Your driver licence relates to you as the driver.
The vehicle itself must also meet the applicable private hire vehicle licensing requirements.
A driver cannot assume that having a valid PCO driver licence automatically means that any vehicle can legally be used for private hire work.
Both driver and vehicle licensing requirements should be considered separately.
PCO Car Hire and Licence Renewal
If you hire a PCO-licensed vehicle from a rental company, you should still maintain your own valid private hire driver licence.
The vehicle provider is responsible for matters relating to the vehicle under its own licensing arrangements.
You remain responsible for your driver licensing obligations.
Before renting a vehicle for private hire work, check that the vehicle is appropriately licensed and suitable for the work you intend to undertake.
How to Avoid Losing Income During PCO Licence Renewal
For many drivers, the biggest concern about licence renewal is losing working time.
The best strategy is preparation.
Start checking your requirements several months before expiry, use the permitted renewal window, prepare documents early and respond quickly to any request from TfL.
You should also avoid making assumptions about whether you can continue driving after your licence expires.
If there is any uncertainty, confirm your licensing status with TfL before accepting passenger bookings.
A Simple Four-Month PCO Renewal Plan
If your licence is approaching expiry, you can use the following general preparation plan.
Four Months Before Expiry
Check your licence expiry date and determine whether you have entered the renewal window.
Review your DBS status, driving licence information and right-to-work documentation.
If you are 45 or over and the medical requirement applies, begin arranging the necessary medical declaration.
Three Months Before Expiry
Prepare the information required for your renewal application.
Complete the HMRC tax check when appropriate and make sure your details are accurate.
Check whether you have lived abroad for three months or more during the period of your current licence.
Two Months Before Expiry
Submit your renewal application if you have not already done so.
Check your email regularly for correspondence from TfL.
If TfL requests further documentation, provide it promptly.
One Month Before Expiry
Check the status of your renewal.
If your application is still being processed, do not automatically assume that you can continue working after the expiry date.
Confirm your licensing position through the appropriate TfL channels.
PCO Licence Renewal Checklist for London Drivers
Before submitting your application, consider the following checklist:
✓ Check your licence expiry date
✓ Confirm that you are within the renewal period
✓ Prepare your photograph
✓ Check your DBS Update Service status
✓ Prepare evidence of your right to live and work in the UK
✓ Check your DVLA driving licence
✓ Obtain your DVLA share code where required
✓ Complete the HMRC tax check
✓ Check whether a medical declaration applies
✓ Check whether overseas documentation applies
✓ Prepare the required fee
✓ Review the application for errors
✓ Submit the application early
✓ Monitor your email for TfL correspondence
✓ Respond promptly to requests for additional information
This checklist can help reduce common mistakes during the PCO licence renewal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About PCO Licence Renewal
How early can I renew my PCO licence?
According to TfL's current policy, you can apply to renew your private hire driver licence up to four months before your existing licence expires.
Applying early is recommended because TfL needs time to complete the necessary checks.
How long does PCO licence renewal take?
TfL stated in March 2026 that it aimed to review renewal applications within around 10 working days of receipt, while also warning that factors outside its control can increase processing times.
This should not be treated as a guarantee that your renewed licence will be issued within exactly 10 working days.
Can I renew my PCO licence after it expires?
You should not deliberately wait until your licence expires.
If your licence is approaching expiry, submit your renewal application as early as possible.
If your licence has already expired, check your individual licensing position with TfL before undertaking private hire work.
Do I need a medical for PCO licence renewal?
Some drivers do.
TfL's current policy states that PHV drivers aged 45 or over on the date their existing licence expires must provide a medical declaration completed by a doctor with full access to their medical history.
Do I need another DBS check?
DBS requirements form part of the private hire driver licensing process.
For renewal, TfL's policy requires evidence of subscription to the DBS Update Service.
Your specific circumstances may determine whether further information is required.
Do I need a tax check to renew my PCO licence?
TfL's current policy lists a HMRC tax check code as part of the renewal application requirements.
Make sure you complete the appropriate tax-check process before submitting your renewal application.
What happens if I lived abroad?
If you lived abroad for three months or more during the period of your existing licence, TfL says you must complete the relevant Living and Working Abroad form and provide a Certificate of Good Conduct from each relevant country.
Can I continue driving while my renewal is being processed?
Do not assume that submitting an application automatically gives you an unrestricted right to continue driving after your current licence expires.
TfL may issue short-term PHV driver licences in appropriate circumstances, subject to its criteria.
Check your individual licensing position before continuing private hire work.
What if TfL asks me for more documents?
Provide the requested information as quickly as possible.
Missing information can prevent an application from being considered complete and can contribute to delays.
Always make sure the documents you submit are accurate and readable.
Why You Should Use the Official TfL Information
There is a lot of information online about PCO licence renewal, but not everything you read on social media, forums or private websites is necessarily current.
TfL is the licensing authority responsible for London's taxi and private hire licensing system.
Its official guidance should therefore be your primary source when checking current renewal requirements, fees, application procedures and licensing rules.
This is especially important because licensing processes can change over time.
Tips for a Successful PCO Licence Renewal
The first tip is simple: start early.
The second is to check every document before submitting your application.
The third is to respond quickly if TfL asks you for additional information.
The fourth is to keep copies of important documents and correspondence.
The fifth is to use official TfL information rather than relying entirely on advice from other drivers.
Following these steps can make your London PCO licence renewal more organised and less stressful.
Why PCO Licence Renewal Matters
For professional private hire drivers, a valid licence is more than just paperwork.
It is an essential part of being able to operate legally within London's regulated private hire industry.
A driver who allows their licensing position to lapse can potentially face significant disruption to their ability to work.
That is why every PCO driver should treat licence renewal as an important business responsibility.
Renew Your PCO Licence Before It Expires
Renewing your PCO licence in London is a process that requires preparation, accurate information and attention to deadlines.
The most important thing is not to wait until the last minute.
TfL currently allows private hire drivers to apply for renewal up to four months before their licence expires, and its latest licensing-service update encourages drivers to submit applications as early as possible.
Before applying, check your DBS Update Service evidence, driving licence, right-to-work information, HMRC tax check, medical requirements and any overseas documentation that may apply.
Once your application has been submitted, monitor your communications and respond quickly to any request for additional information.
Remember that PCO licence renewal requirements can change, so always confirm the latest information directly with Transport for London before submitting your application.
Comments