How to Apply for a Chauffeur Licence

What type of licence do chauffeur drivers use and what do you need to do to become a chauffeur? Here’s what you can expect when applying for your chauffeur licence.

Do I Need a Taxi Licence to become a Chauffeur?

The Public Carriage Office (PCO), which is part of Transport for London (TfL), oversees the process of licencing chauffeurs and private hire drivers. To become a chauffeur in the UK, you’ll need to get a PCO licence (also called a private hire vehicle drivers licence). This is the same type of licence used by taxi drivers and private hire vehicle operators. You can get a PCO licence application pack online.

Note that you must meet certain criteria and pass some important tests before your licence can be approved.

You must be at least 21 years old when you apply
There is no maximum age limit, provided you meet the other requirements
You must have the right to live and work in the UK
You must hold a valid driving licence which is at least 3 years old (i.e., a full DVLA, Northern Ireland or other EEA state driving licence)
You must be medically fit, which means doing a full medical check-up with your GP
You must be of good character, which means passing an in-depth criminal records check
You must take a topographical skills assessment at an accredited centre

Have a Chauffeur Licence? Drive with Addison Lee

After you get your PCO licence, you’ll need to find a reputable private hire operator to work with. Addison Lee is a highly respected private hire service based in London, and we’re always looking for professional chauffeurs to add to our growing fleet.

If you’re a newly licenced chauffeur, the good news is you don’t need previous experience to become an Addison Lee driver. These are the qualities we look for in all our applicants: