If you enjoy driving, meeting new people and working flexibly, becoming a private hire vehicle driver (PHV driver) is the right opportunity for you. If you want to start working as a PHV driver and are not sure where to start, our comprehensive guide will help you take your first step. We’ll walk you through all the essential steps you need to take, including things you should consider while opting for this career.
Becoming PHV Driver in the UK
PHV drivers are responsible for taking passengers to their destinations safely and comfortably on time. Additional responsibilities can be delivering packages or food. To become a PHV driver in the UK, you need to obtain a PCO licence. Without a PCO licence, no one is allowed to work as a PHV driver and cannot get a job in any company that offers private hiring cab service, such as Uber.
• Licencing and Qualification Requirements
First, check your eligibility for a PCO licence, i.e. your age should be at least 18 years, you have the legal right to work in the UK, hold a driving licence for at least a year, and have proof of identity and address. Moreover, you should be ‘fit and proper’, i.e. you need to clear medical examination and background checks.
You don’t need any specific qualification to become a PHV driver in the UK, but you are required to pass the English language test, topographic assessment and SERU assessment to obtain a PCO licence. These assessments ensure that every PCO licence holder can effectively communicate in English, knows how to navigate through different locations and understands security and regulations.
After successfully passing these assessments, you become eligible to apply for your TfL PCO licence, and once you receive the licence, you can start working as a PHV driver.
Drivers can also obtain a Hackney Carriage licence to work as PHV drivers for private hire cab companies. This allows you to pick up passengers who hail them on the street or at designated ranks.
• PCO Badge
The PCO badge is valid for up to 3 years, and you must retake mandatory assessments to renew your PCO licence.
• Select the Right Vehicle
Your next step should be choosing the right vehicle which you intend to use for PHV driving. Every council has different rules for private hire taxis, so check with your council’s requirements, and if you are in London, then check TfL’s prerequisites regarding private hire vehicles. Most councils only allow up to 10 years old models to work as private hire can.
If you already own a suitable car, assess its condition, age, and whether it meets the council’s or TfL’s requirements. Alternatively, if you plan to rent or lease a vehicle, calculate the associated costs and fuel consumption to determine if it aligns with your potential earnings.
• Insurance Coverage
PHV drivers require specific insurance to ensure their vehicle is fully covered in case of an accident. Private hire vehicle is very similar to regular car insurance but includes additional coverage of ‘hire and reward’ that will pay in case your passenger is injured or their belongings are damaged. Appropriate insurance safeguards you and your passengers in accidents or incidents.
• Working Hours and Flexibility
PHV drivers can select their working hours; however, it is essential to understand that working hours may vary according to your chosen company. Evaluate your personal schedule and select working hours to maximise your earnings. You can work for 5 hours or 9 hours at any time in the day or night, which makes working as a PHV driver in the UK an attractive job.
• Customer Service Skills
Having exceptional customer service skills and interpersonal skills is essential to succeed as a PHV driver. Interacting with various passengers daily requires good communication skills and patience.
• Working with a Private Hire Company
Driver with PCO licence can definitely work with private hire companies. Such companies usually operate with an app from which customers book their rides, and the driver closest will get the ride. Every private hire company has its own rules you need to follow.
How to Meet Qualification Requirements?
No need to worry about the PHV driver qualification requirement; enrol in the Haward Training PCO licence course, and our qualified team of trainers will help you meet the qualification requirement. We offer English speaking and listening, SERU assessment and topographical assessment training, where we ensure you develop a thorough understanding of each topic and practice well before the actual assessment increasing your chances of success.
Becoming a PHV driver in the UK can offer flexibility and financial opportunities, but it’s crucial to consider various factors before embarking on this career path. Evaluate licensing requirements, vehicle selection, insurance coverage, working hours, earnings potential, safety precautions, and customer service skills.
