PCO cars (Public Carriage Office) are suitable for ride hailing drivers such as minicab drivers, as well as Uber, Kaptem, Bolt and Ola. A PCO car has to meet the TFL requirements for personal transport and ity must have a valid private hire vehicle licence. The PCO Licence, also known as the Private Hire Driver Licence, allows you to work as a minicab driver or chauffeur, including working as an Uber driver, and is valid for 3 years. To be eligible for a PCO licence:

• You need to be at least 21 years of age
• Must have held a UK license for 3 years
• Have a valid criminal record check (DBS) check 
• Complete medical examination
• Complete a topographical skills assessment
• Take an English language test

To sign up and hire a PCO car you will to have the following documents:

• Driver’s license (which you have had for 3+ years)
• Proof of address
• National Insurance Number 
• PCO licence and badge

There are other requirements when becoming a PCO driver that are related to the car your drive, these include:

• Have a Euro 6 petrol or diesel engine, or a Euro 4 petrol-hybrid engine
• Four independently opening doors 
• Good condition with no cosmetic damage
• No commercial branding

You do not actually have to be the owner of the vehicle you use for PCO driving, you can choose a rent to buy option instead. The main thing to note is that the car has to have a valid PHV license and hire and reward insurance policy in place. If you’ve completed all the steps above, you’re ready to start earning an income with on-demand platforms. Which ones you choose is entirely up to you, but we suggest signing up to several ridesharing and delivery apps to make the best use of your working hours and maximise your income.