AdminStarting a PCO licence application can feel like a lot to manage. Alongside documents, DBS checks and a medical, most new private hire driver applicants need to pass two TfL assessments: the SERU test and the topographical test.
The good news is that both tests become more manageable when you understand what they assess and prepare in a structured way. This guide explains what to expect, how to practise and how to fit test preparation around the rest of your application.
What are the two PCO tests?
The topographical test assesses how well you can read maps and plan routes around London. The SERU test assesses your understanding of safety, equality and regulatory requirements for private hire drivers.
Both assessments are computer-based. They test different skills, so you’ll need to prepare for each one separately.
Important 2026 note: TfL’s Driver Policy V6.0, dated September 2026, states that it accepts only topographical assessment certificates issued by TfL. A training provider can prepare you, but cannot issue the TfL certificate.
Preparing for the topographical test
What does the test assess?
The test checks whether you can find locations and plan a suitable route across London. Your preparation should build practical map-reading skills, including:
- Locating streets and places on a map.
- Planning a direct, practical route between two points.
- Understanding one-way systems and prohibited turns.
- Recognising where to cross the Thames using a suitable bridge.
- Identifying motorways and major roads, including the M25.
- Reading directions, map references and distances.
The A–Z Master Atlas of Greater London is a useful training resource for learning the street network and practising map references. The assessment itself is computer-based, and the materials or aids available on the day may differ. Don’t assume you can use a physical atlas during the test; follow the instructions TfL provides for your appointment.
What is the test format and pass mark?
TfL’s current assessment guidance describes three route-planning tasks alongside map-based questions. The route tasks carry a substantial share of the marks. Current 2026 preparation information indicates an assessment of around 70 minutes, scored out of 100, with a 60% pass mark.
Test arrangements can change, so check your booking information for the exact timing and instructions that apply to you.
Why memorising routes is not enough
London has too many streets and route variations to rely on memorised journeys. You may face a start point or destination you have never practised. Instead, learn how the road network connects.
Practise identifying the start and destination first. Then consider one-way roads, river crossings, road closures and the most direct practical route. This makes it easier to adapt when a question looks unfamiliar.
Common topographical test mistakes
- Mixing up the start and destination: Check both points before planning.
- Ignoring one-way streets or restricted turns: A route that looks short may not be valid.
- Choosing a route that skips a suitable bridge: Check how the route crosses the river.
- Spending too long on one question: Keep an eye on the time and move on when needed.
- Practising only with paper maps: Get comfortable answering questions on a computer-based system too.
Realistic computer-based practice helps you get used to the task style, screen layout and pace. A PCO topographical test mock can also show you where you need more practice before the assessment.
Insider Tip: When practising a route, explain your choices out loud: where you start, which main roads you use, how you cross the river and where you finish. This can reveal a missed turn or a direction error before it becomes a habit.
Preparing for the SERU test
What does SERU stand for?
SERU means Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding. The assessment checks that you understand the responsibilities involved in carrying passengers as a licensed private hire driver.
Topics include:
- Passenger and driver safety.
- Safeguarding and how to respond to concerns.
- Equality, disability awareness and accessible service.
- Customer care and professional conduct.
- TfL licensing rules and regulatory requirements.
- Relevant knowledge of London’s roads and landmarks.
What happens at the test?
The SERU assessment is computer-based and is based on TfL’s private hire driver learning materials. It typically includes multiple-choice questions and may include sentence-completion questions. TfL’s 2026 published information describes an assessment of about one hour, with around 36 questions and a 60% pass mark. Always check the instructions for your own appointment, as details can change.
Read the learning materials carefully before test day. Practise applying the rules to real situations, not just recognising familiar wording.
Common SERU preparation mistakes
- Skimming the handbook: Important details can be easy to miss. Read for meaning and think about how each rule applies to a passenger journey.
- Focusing only on familiar topics: Give equal attention to safeguarding, equality and disability awareness.
- Leaving preparation until the final week: A short, regular study routine is usually easier to manage than last-minute cramming.
- Memorising answers without understanding them: Questions may describe a situation in a different way. Understanding the rule helps you choose an appropriate response.
Insider Tip: After each study session, write down a few key rules in your own words. If you can explain what to do and why, you’re more likely to handle a differently worded question confidently.
Which test should you take first?
There is no single best order for every applicant. Check your TfL application and assessment booking options, then plan around appointment availability and your current skills.
If map reading is new to you, start topographical practice early; route planning often improves with repetition. You can study SERU materials alongside it in shorter sessions.
Also plan for the other application requirements, including your DBS check, medical assessment, English language requirement and vehicle arrangements. You do not have to solve every step at once. Keeping a simple list of what is booked, completed or still needed can help you stay on track. PCO GO’s PCO licence application support can help you organise the wider process.
A five-week preparation plan
Use this as a guide and adjust it to your starting point and test dates.
| Week | Topographical preparation | SERU preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Learn map symbols, references and how London’s main roads connect. | Read the learning materials once to understand the main topics. |
| 2 | Practise finding streets, planning routes and checking one-way systems. | Study safety, safeguarding and passenger care. |
| 3 | Practise river crossings, motorways and route variations. Try timed questions. | Focus on equality, disability awareness and regulatory responsibilities. |
| 4 | Complete computer-based mock tests. Review errors and repeat weaker question types. | Use practice questions and review any topics you find difficult. |
| 5 | Take a final timed mock and refresh your route-planning method. | Review key rules and complete a final practice session. Avoid cramming. |
Preparation checklist
Topographical test
- Practise reading map references and locating streets.
- Plan routes with one-way roads, river crossings and road closures in mind.
- Review major roads, including the M25.
- Practise in a computer-based format and complete realistic mocks.
- Check your TfL appointment details for current test instructions.
SERU test
- Read the TfL learning materials carefully.
- Study safety, safeguarding, equality and disability awareness.
- Review licensing rules and professional responsibilities.
- Use practice questions to check understanding.
- Make time for preparation before your final week.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to take both tests?
Most new private hire driver applicants need to pass both the SERU and topographical assessments. TfL sets the requirements and any applicable exemptions.
How long is the topographical certificate valid?
TfL’s September 2026 policy says it accepts topographical certificates issued by TfL, but does not specify a general expiry period in the information reviewed for this guide. If you passed previously, confirm with TfL whether that result is recognised for your current application. A certificate from a private training provider is not a TfL-issued assessment certificate.
Can I retake the tests?
Retake arrangements and fees are set by TfL and can differ by assessment. Check the current booking instructions before arranging a resit. Use any result feedback to focus your next round of preparation.
Are both tests computer-based?
Yes. Both assessments are computer-based. Practising with realistic computer-based materials can help you feel more comfortable with the format.
Get practical support with PCO GO
Preparing for two tests while managing a licence application can feel demanding. You don’t have to work through every step alone.
PCO GO offers computer-based topographical training with real exam-style mocks, with sessions from £99, plus SERU test prep and one-to-one support from experienced trainers. Our London training centre can also help with the wider PCO licence application, including TfL registration, DBS and medical guidance.
Explore our topographical test training or contact PCO GO to discuss the support that suits you.