Your Complete Guide to the PCO Vehicle Inspection in 2023

All you need to know about the PCO inspection

Obtaining and maintaining a valid PCO (Public Carriage Office) license is necessary to legally operate as a private hire driver in London.

One of the mandatory requirements to be granted a PCO license is passing an annual vehicle inspection, which ensures that your vehicle meets Transport for London (TfL) standards. Whether you're an experienced driver or just starting out, understanding the PCO inspection process is vital to keep your car on the road earning money, avoid penalties and keep you and your passengers safe. Failure to pass a PCO inspection will prevent you from operating your business.

What is a PCO inspection?

A PCO inspection is a comprehensive vehicle check mandated by Transport for London (TfL) for all vehicles used for private hire. These inspections are designed to ensure that all vehicles are safe, roadworthy, and compliant with TfL regulations. Annual inspections are required to maintain your PCO license and avoid a fine or suspension.

Changes to PCO compliance rules

On July 1, 2024, new rules were introduced by TfL around PCO compliance. These include the introduction of mandatory reporting by drivers of any arrest and release, charge, caution, or conviction they receive to TfL within 48 hours.

All PHVs will now be required to display signage that contains information for passengers on how to lodge a complaint to TfL. TfL began affixing new signage into vehicles on July 1, 2024, as part of the vehicle licensing inspection process. All PHVs (Private Hire Vehicles) must have the signage on display by July 1, 2025.

Why are PCO inspections important?

PCO inspections are not just a legal requirement; they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of both drivers and passengers. By adhering to the strict standards set by TfL, drivers contribute to a safer, more reliable transport network in London. Failing to pass a PCO inspection can lead to significant consequences, including the suspension of your PCO license, which would prevent you from working legally as a private hire driver.

What does a PCO inspection involve?

A PCO inspection covers a range of tests for the driver and their vehicle to ensure TfL's stringent safety and environmental standards are met.

• Topographical skills test: This is a map-reading test to ensure that drivers can navigate efficiently. The participant can choose to do the test digitally or on paper. It assesses the ability to plan routes, understand maps, and identify locations. Drivers might be asked to plot a route between two points, identify landmarks, or interpret different maps.

• English language test: This assesses the driver's ability to communicate effectively in English. The test typically includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking components to ensure the driver can interact with passengers, read road signs, and understand important instructions.

• Medical examination: A health check conducted by a licensed medical practitioner to ensure the driver is fit to drive. This includes vision tests and an overall health assessment, particularly focusing on conditions that might impair driving ability.

• Enhanced background check (also known as a DBS – Disclosure and Barring Service check): This involves a thorough check of the driver's criminal record to ensure they are a safe and trustworthy individual to carry passengers.

• Driving assessment: While not always part of the standard PCO test, some licensing authorities may require a practical driving test to assess the driver's competency on the road.

• Vehicle compliance: The vehicle must meet certain standards, including being roadworthy, insured, and properly maintained.

How to prepare for a PCO inspection

Passing a PCO inspection requires thorough preparation. Here are some actionable tips to help you get ready:

• Regular maintenance: Keep your vehicle in top condition with regular servicing. Address any minor issues before they become major problems.

• Documentation: Ensure all your required documents - including the Vehicle Registration Certificate (also known as a V5C), insurance certificate, and insurance permission letter - are up to date and available for verification. Your driving license, PCO badge, and any other relevant documents must be presented during the inspection. Missing or expired documents can result in a failed inspection.

• Pre-inspection check: Perform a pre-inspection check of your vehicle’s major components, including brakes, lights, and tyres, to ensure they meet the required standards. Essentially anything that would fail an MOT.

• Insurance: Your insurance must cover private hire use. A specific insurance permission letter may be required to confirm that your insurance provider authorises your vehicle for private hire use.

• Mock inspection: Consider conducting a mock inspection to identify any potential issues that could cause your vehicle to fail the actual inspection. Doing so will give you the best chance of passing the real examination.

Potential challenges before or during a PCO inspection

While the process is usually straightforward, there can be challenges:

• Securing a booking slot: Finding a convenient time slot for your TfL vehicle inspection booking can sometimes be difficult. Plan well ahead to avoid delays that could keep you off the road and not earning.

• Unexpected repairs: Minor issues discovered during the inspection can lead to unexpected repair costs.

• TfL PCO Failure: If your vehicle fails the inspection, you must address the issues and book a re-inspection, which can remove your ability to operate.

The importance of safety and compliance

Safety is the top priority in the PCO inspection process. TfL's stringent requirements are in place to protect both passengers and drivers, ensuring that all vehicles on the road are safe and reliable. Complying with these regulations not only helps you avoid penalties but also builds trust with your passengers.

How Splend can help

At Splend, we understand the importance of staying on top of your PCO requirements. We offer PCO-licensed vehicles that are fully compliant with TfL standards, making the process as hassle-free as possible. Also, as servicing and maintenance, such as replacement tyres and brakes are included in our all-inclusive ownership packages, we help keep your vehicle up to the standard required to secure your PCO license.

Checklist for passing a PCO inspection

• Ensure all your vehicle documentation is current and accessible.

• Keep your driving license, PCO badge, and other relevant documents up to date.

• Perform daily checks on vehicle components, including brakes, lights, and tyres.

• Regularly service your vehicle to prevent any mechanical failures.

• Schedule your TfL vehicle inspection well in advance to secure a convenient slot.

• Conduct a pre-inspection check or mock inspection to identify and fix potential issues.

How do I sign up for a PCO vehicle inspection?

The quickest way is to book an inspection online, on the TfL website. You can choose a date, time and location that suits you and you can even cancel or reschedule your appointment if needed. You can also book an inspection by calling 0343 222 5555.

Book a car inspection through TfL

DID YOU KNOW? If you’re a Splend customer, we take care of everything, including the Private Hire Vehicle licence inspection, at our London Hub.

Inspection sites in London:

• Central West Site
  Unit 2 Aquarius Business Park, Staples corner, Priestly Way, NW2 7AN

• South East Site
  Unit 13 & 14, Klinger Industrial Park, Edgington Way, Sidcup, DA14 5AF

• North Site
  Unit 2, Watermill Business Centre, Edison Road, Enfield, London, EN3 7XF

• West Site
  20A Airlinks Industrial Estate, Spitfire Way, Heston, TW5 9NR

• Central East Site
  Unit 10 Segro Park, Rainham, RM13 8HY

If you’re booking outside London, your car needs to be inspected and licenced by the local council.

Find and contact your local council

IMPORTANT: Unless the car is registered to your name, you’ll need to be nominated by the registered keeper to act on their behalf when making an application and presenting the car for inspection.

What documents do I need for the PCO vehicle inspection?

When attending your inspection appointment, make sure you have the following documents ready and valid:

• Existing PHV licence and discs (for renewals)

• V5c DVLA Vehicle Registration Certificate

• Hire and reward insurance documents (Check PHV insurance and Amazon Flex insurance for more details)

•  MOT certificate issued within the last 14 days

• Any vehicle modification documents (if applicable)

• Voluntary Individual Vehicle Approval – VIVA (for personal imports and left-hand drive vehicles)

• Certificate of conformity (if required)

DID YOU KNOW? All Splend cars have a valid PHV licence, so once your personal documents are in order, you can just start driving and let us handle any paperwork.

How often do I need to do the PCO vehicle inspection?

You need to renew your PHV licence every 12 months, therefore you need to arrange to have your vehicle inspected ahead of time to avoid any potential issues.