AdminIf you are planning to become a private hire driver in London, or if your current license is up for renewal, you have likely heard the whispers: TfL fees are going up.
For the first time since 2017, Transport for London (TfL) is overhauling the cost structure for PCO licences. While "fee hikes" are never the news you want to hear, understanding exactly what you’re paying for and when those changes kick in can save you hundreds of pounds in the long run.
At PCO GO, we believe in total transparency. We’ve broken down the 2026 fee changes into this quick, "plain English" guide so you can budget accurately and avoid any nasty surprises.
The Big Picture: What’s Changing and When?
TfL is rolling out these updates in two distinct phases during 2026. If you are halfway through an application or planning to start soon, mark these dates in your calendar:
- 9 March 2026: All assessment fees (SERU, topographical, and English) will increase.
- 1 June 2026: The core driver license application and grant fees will increase.
If you can get your application or assessments booked before these dates, you could lock in the older, lower rates. However, if you're entering the trade after June 2026, here is the new reality of the costs.
1. New TfL Driver Licence Fees (Effective 1 June 2026)
The cost of the license itself is split into two parts: the application fee (which covers the processing of your paperwork) and the grant fee (which covers the actual issuing of the license once you are approved).
| Fee Type | Old Rate (Pre-2026) | New Rate (June 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | £124 | £142 |
| Grant of Licence Fee | £186 | £212 |
| Total Licensing Cost | £310 | £354 |
Why the increase? TfL states these fees are necessary to cover the rising costs of enforcement and compliance. Essentially, they are putting more resources into keeping the London private hire trade regulated and safe, and the drivers are footing a portion of that bill.
2. Assessment Fees: The Cost of Testing
This is where the changes will be felt most by new applicants. Whether you are taking your topographical skills test or the SERU (Safety, Equality, and Regulatory Understanding) assessment, the costs for both first attempts and resits are rising.
First Attempt Fees (from 9 March 2026)
- Topographical Skills Test: £40 (up from £36)
- SERU Assessment: £40 (up from £36)
- English Language (Speaking & Listening): £40 (up from £36)
Resit Fees: The Real "Hike"
This is the part you need to watch out for. Resit fees have seen a significant percentage jump.
- Any Resit (Topographical, SERU, or English): £30 (up from £16)
Insider Tip: Failing a test now costs nearly double what it used to in resit fees. This makes professional PCO training in London more essential than ever. Passing the first time isn't just about saving time anymore; it's a major financial win.
3. Mandatory Third-Party Costs (DBS & Medicals)
While TfL controls the licence fees, there are other mandatory costs that every driver must factor into their 2026 budget.
Annual DBS Checks
Since July 2024, TfL has moved toward a more frequent monitoring system.
- Basic DBS Check: £33
Crucially, this is no longer a "once every three years" cost. You are now required to maintain an annual DBS check to stay compliant. Over the course of a 3-year licence, you should budget approximately £99 for DBS updates.
Medical Examinations
To get your PCO licence, you must prove you are fit to drive through a TPH/204 medical form.
- Estimated Cost: £80 – £120
Prices vary depending on whether you go to your own GP or a specialist private provider. We often recommend private providers, as they are usually faster and significantly cheaper than local NHS surgeries.
4. Total Budget: How Much Do You Need for a 2026 PCO licence?
If you are a new driver starting from scratch in the summer of 2026, here is a realistic breakdown of your minimum regulatory costs (assuming you pass everything the first time):
- TfL Application & Grant Fees: £354
- Topographical Test: £40
- SERU Assessment: £40
- DBS Check (Year 1): £33
- Medical Exam (Average): £100
- English Assessment (If required): £40
Total Estimated Initial Cost: ~£607
Note: This does not include your vehicle insurance, car licensing, or any training courses you might take to ensure you pass.
Why Professional Training is Your Best "Cost-Saving" Strategy
Looking at those figures, the most expensive mistake you can make is failing an assessment.
Between the £30 resit fee and the potential weeks of delay in getting your licence (meaning you aren't earning money on Uber or Bolt), a "cheap" DIY approach often ends up being the most expensive option.
At PCO GO, we’ve designed our computer-based training to mirror the exact environment you’ll face at the TfL centres. We use the latest software to help you master the "Master Atlas of Greater London" and navigate complex routes with ease.
Frequent Flyer Tip: Don't just book a test. Book a mock exam. Our trainers provide real-world simulations that identify exactly where you are losing marks, so when you pay that £40 to TfL, you know it’s a one-time payment.
Ready to Start? Don't Let the Fees Stop You.
While the 2026 hikes are a reality, the earning potential for PCO drivers in London remains strong. With platforms like Uber, Bolt, and FREENOW constantly looking for new drivers, the initial £600 investment can often be paid off in your first week or two of full-time driving.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork or the new fee structure, let us handle the heavy lifting. From helping with your PCO license application to providing the best topographical training in the city, we’ve got your back.
Contact the PCO GO team today to book your training session and beat the 2026 rush!
FAQ: Your 2026 PCO Fee Questions Answered
1. Do I have to pay the full £354 at once?
Usually, yes. TfL requires the application fee and the grant fee to be paid as part of the submission process. If your application is refused, you may be eligible for a refund of the grant portion, but the application processing fee is non-refundable.
2. Is the English language test mandatory for everyone?
Not necessarily. If you can provide evidence of a suitable qualification (like a UK GCSE or degree certificate), you may be exempt. However, TfL has tightened these rules, so many drivers now choose to take the £40 assessment to ensure their application isn't delayed.
3. Will my renewal cost the same as a new application?
Yes. Under the June 2026 rules, the renewal fees for existing drivers have been aligned with the new application rates. You will still need to pay the £354 for your 3-year licence renewal.
4. Can I take the topographical test before I apply?
No. You must first submit your application to TfL. Once they have processed your initial details, they will invite you to book your assessments at one of their official centres.
5. How can I avoid the resit fees?
The best way is preparation. Use PCO GO's map training tools to practise route planning and map reading under exam conditions before your official date.