If you’re applying for a PCO licence in London, you will need to take a mandatory Transport for London (TfL) assessment called the Topographical Test. The reason for the test is to confirm a driver’s ability to navigate London efficiently.
In this guide we will explain what the Topographical Test is in, who needs to take it, and how it fits into the wider TfL PCO licensing process.
What Is the Topographical Test?
The Topographical Test is an assessment used in London to evaluate a driver’s ability to read maps, plan routes, and demonstrate basic navigation skills. It forms part of the eligibility checks for certain private hire (PCO) driver licence applicants overseen by TfL.
The purpose of the test is to ensure that licensed drivers operating in London can navigate safely and efficiently, even without relying solely on satellite navigation systems. Given the complexity of London’s road network including congestion zones, restricted roads, and frequent diversions. Basic topographical awareness is considered an important professional standard.
The test is not an academic geography exam. Instead, it focuses on practical, real-world skills such as:
- Reading and interpreting maps
- Planning sensible routes between locations
- Understanding distances, directions, and landmarks
- Demonstrating general familiarity with London’s layout
While modern PCO drivers routinely use sat nav apps, TfL still expects drivers to understand the fundamentals of navigation across the capital.
Who Needs to Take the Topographical Test?
All private hire drivers in London will need to have taken the topographical test to obtain their private hire licence.
PCO Drivers and the Topographical Test
For private hire (PCO) drivers, the Topographical Test is required if:
- You are applying for your first PCO licence
- You reapplying after a licence has expired
- You are thinking of becoming a part-time PCO driver
TfL reviews each application individually, and requirements can change over time.
Because of this, it’s important to rely on official TfL guidance rather than assumptions or third-party advice.
Up-to-date licensing requirements are published by Transport for London via the below link:
https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/taxis-and-private-hire/licensing
What Does the Topographical Test London Involve?
The assessment will test all aspects of map reading skills:
• Using indexes to identify points/locations
• Using a map to identify directions and points/locations
• To plan a route between two locations
• To demonstrate knowledge of compass points within directional based questions
Map Reading and Route Planning
Applicants are typically asked to plan routes using maps. This may involve:
- Identifying an appropriate route between two London locations
- Avoiding unsuitable or restricted roads
- Explaining why a particular route has been chosen
The emphasis is on logical route selection, not on knowing every side street by memory.
Topographical Test Distances, Directions, and Orientation
You may be asked to demonstrate an understanding of distances and directions across London. This can include:
- Estimating approximate journey distances
- Understanding compass directions
- Interpreting map symbols and layouts
These skills help demonstrate that you can navigate confidently if technology fails or becomes unreliable.
General Awareness of London’s Road Network
While the Topographical Test is not the same as “The Knowledge”, it does expect a reasonable awareness of London as a working environment. This can include familiarity with:
- Major roads and routes
- Key destinations such as stations or hospitals
- The general structure of the capital
Click this link to read The Topographical Assessment Guidelines.
Is the Topographical Test the Same as The Knowledge?
This is a common point of confusion.
The Topographical Test required for PCO drivers in London is not the same as The Knowledge of London, which is undertaken by black cab (hackney carriage) drivers.
Key differences include:
- The Knowledge involves years of structured study and memorisation
- The Topographical Test focuses on practical map-reading and route planning
- The scope and depth of assessment are significantly different
PCO drivers are not expected to memorise every street in London, but they are expected to understand how to plan sensible journeys across the city.
Why Does London Still Require a Topographical Test?
With GPS navigation widely available, many drivers question why the Topographical Test remains part of the PCO licensing process in London.
TfL generally maintains this requirement for several reasons:
- Passenger safety: Drivers must remain competent if technology fails
- Professional standards: Licensed drivers are expected to understand their operating environment
- Journey efficiency: Good route awareness helps reduce unnecessary delays
How Is the Topographical Test Marked?
TfL sets minimum standards that applicants must meet to demonstrate basic competence.
The total marks for the topographical test is 100. You will need a score of 60 marks or above to pass.
What Happens If You Fail the Topographical Test?
Failing the Topographical Test in London does not mean your PCO application is permanently rejected.
If you fail the test twice you will have to restart the whole of the TfL application process including filling out the application forms again.
How To Prepare for the Topographical Test London?
To best prepare for taking the topographical test, you should utilise the study tools available:
A-Z London atlases: By using A-Z atlases you can build your knowledge of the city’s layout.
Online mapping services: Looking on Google Maps can help you practise planning and comparing routes.
Courses: Specialist topographical training courses that offer mock tests and tailored guidance to improve your technique.
Click here for more information on the topographical assessment.
Click here to watch a video from TfL on how you can plot a route.
Topographical Test Final Thoughts
For many aspiring drivers, the Topographical Test in London feels like an intimidating requirement, but in reality, it is designed to confirm fundamental navigation skills rather than expert-level knowledge.
By understanding what the test involves, checking current TfL requirements, and preparing appropriately, most applicants can approach it with confidence.
If you’re planning to work as a PCO driver in London, the Topographical Test should be viewed as part of a wider licensing journey, one that helps maintain professional standards and safer journeys across the capital.
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