If you drive for Uber, Bolt, or any other private hire services in London it is important to know how to renew your PCO licence.
Your PCO (Public Carriage Office) licence officially known as a Private Hire Driver Licence is your ticket to work. It’s what proves you’re licensed by Transport for London (TfL) to operate legally as a private hire driver.
Forgetting to renew your licence on time could stop you from driving altogether. The TFL states “It is an offence for a Taxi or PHV driver to work without a valid licence”
If you forget to renew your PCO licence you may lose out on valuable workdays. Small mistakes can also lead to big losses. This could be down to a few reasons, from expired DBS checks to missing documents.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to renew your PCO licence, how long it takes, what it costs, and what to do if it’s delayed.
What Is a PCO Licence Renewal?
A PCO licence is a legal requirement in London for anyone who wants to work as private hire driver. Your licence must be renewed every three years with TfL.
Renewing confirms that you still meet TfL’s professional and safety standards, including:
- Medical fitness if over the age of 45
- Criminal background check (DBS)
- Valid driving licence
- Right to work in the UK
This process ensures only qualified, safe drivers operate in London.
You can read the official TfL guidance here: Existing licensee
When Should You Renew Your PCO Licence?
You can renew your PCO licence up to four months before it expires (TfL guidance).
TfL will usually email or write to you before your renewal date, but it’s your responsibility to apply in time.
If you miss your renewal date:
- You may need to apply as a new driver, restarting the full process
- You cannot drive as a PCO driver until a new licence is approved.
- You risk weeks of lost earnings.
How Long Does PCO Licence Renewal Take?
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Renew Your PCO Licence Online
By following these steps, we have tried to explain the renewal process for your PCO licence as easy as possible.
Step 1: Check Your Current Licence Expiry Date
You can find this on your badge or within your TfL Driver Licensing account.
Renewals can be submitted up to 112 days (4 months) before expiry.
Step 2: Gather Your Renewal Documents
Before starting your renewal, prepare these documents:
- Your current PCO licence (badge and paper licence)
- Valid UK driving licence
- Enhanced DBS certificate (issued within the last 3 months or on the Update Service)
- Medical certificate (If aged over 45)
- Proof of address
- Right to work documentation
Need help managing your uploads? See:
How To Upload Your PCO Documents
Step 3: Log In to Your TfL Licensing Account
Go to the official TfL PCO Licence Portal.
Log in with your driver details and follow the on-screen instructions for Private Hire Driver Licence Renewal.
Step 4: Pay the PCO Licence Renewal Cost
The current licence application fee is currently £124.
You’ll also need to cover:
- Enhanced DBS check: £52 online and £54 for paper (DBS fees were increased in December 2024)
- Medical exam: Fee set by the examining doctor (your GP)
Keep your payment receipt for reference in case TfL requests proof.
Step 5: Upload All Required Documents
Upload scanned copies or clear photos of all required documents. Make sure they are:
- Legible and in date
- Named clearly (e.g., “JohnSmith_DBS2025.pdf”)
- Consistent with your ID details
Tip: We recommend uploading high-quality JPEG or PDF files to ensure that there are no errors with viewing your documents.
Step 6: Wait for TfL to Process Your Renewal
After submission, TfL will:
- Check your DBS and medical information
- Verify your right to work
- Process your payment and issue your new badge
You can track progress via your TfL account or by contacting the Taxi and Private Hire Licensing team (TfL contact page).
Renew PCO licence London 2025 | Documents required to Renew PCO licence London
Can I Drive While My PCO Licence Is Being Renewed?
Yes, if you submit your renewal before your current licence expires, you can continue to drive while TfL processes your renewal.
Please note: If your licence has expired before you have renewed it, even if you have submitted for renewal, you will not be able to drive.
However, you must:
- Keep your confirmation email or reference number as proof of submission.
- Stop driving immediately if your renewal is rejected or your licence expires before submission.
If you do not renew your PCO licence before it expires you will be driving illegally.
Renew PCO Licence Checklist
Before hitting “submit,” make sure you have:
- Valid UK driving licence
- Enhanced DBS check (within 3 months)
- Completed medical declaration form (TPH/204) if aged 45 and over
- Proof of right to work
- Proof of address
- Paid renewal fee (£170)
- Uploaded readable documents
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renewing Your PCO Licence
Avoid these mistakes that delay renewals:
- Uploading blurry or expired documents
- Missing DBS Update Service enrolment
- Submitting after licence expiry
- Ignoring follow-up emails from TfL
PCO Licence Renewal Tips
Follow these tips to keep your renewal stress-free:
- Set a reminder 4 months before expiry.
- Keep your DBS subscription active year-round.
- Scan and name documents early.
- Check that all uploaded documents match your ID exactly.
- Keep digital backups in case TfL requests re-uploads.
How Long Does the PCO Licence Renewal Last?
Once approved, your PCO licence is valid for 3 years.
TfL will notify you when it’s time to renew again but always set your own reminders to avoid lapses.
For long-term success, it’s best to review your compliance every year and keep your DBS, medical, and address details up to date.
What If My PCO Renewal Is Delayed or Rejected?
If your renewal takes longer than expected, you can contact TfL’s Licensing Team:
drivers@tph.tfl.gov.uk
0343 222 4000
If your application is rejected, TfL will explain why and give you a deadline to fix any issues.
If refused due to fitness or character, you can appeal to the magistrates’ court within 21 days.
How do I appeal a private hire vehicle or hackney carriage licence ban?
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead, Stay Licensed
Renewing your PCO licence on time means staying legal, compliant, and ready to work without interruption.
Start your renewal early, double-check your documents, and use official channels to track your progress.
At Rapid PCO, we’re here to make your driver journey smoother. From blogs on how to upload your documents to insights into the London PCO industry.
Explore more guides and tools for London drivers at Rapid PCO.
