PCO car rental is a term that relates to earning income as an Uber driver or through other on-demand driving apps. It is a flexible way of making a living and is an attractive option for PCO drivers around London. Here is everything you need to know.

The Basics Of PCO Car Rental

PCO License

Before you can even start driving you need a PCO license. PCO stands for Public Carriage Office and it is a department of Transport for London (TfL). A PCO license is otherwise known as a Private Hire Driver License but they are the same thing.

PCO Car

A PCO car is a four-door vehicle or minivan. Due to the space they contain, it meets the requirements of TfL as a form of London transport.

Applying For A PCO License

You need at least three years of driving experience and the right to work in the UK to apply. Plus, a range of identification documents such as passport, national insurance number and driving license. Once attained, your PCO license lasts for three years.

The Right Vehicle For PCO Car Rental

For PCO car hire your vehicle must be in good condition with no damage to it’s paint and no broken essentials like lights or windows. As mentioned, you need four opening doors to ensure smooth transition of passengers entering and exiting the vehicle. Not to mention, a euro 6 petrol, euro 4 petrol or diesel engine.

How To Get A PCO License

Standard Requirements

Apart from having a three years old driving license and basic identity documents you need to be at least 21 years old and go through an advanced DBS criminal records check. Furthermore, proof your GP that you are medically fit, have a topographical skills certificate and an english language qualification. Then you must apply on the Tfl website.

The Cost

It usually costs around £700 but this is dependent on what documents you already have at your disposal and what tests you have already passed. If you do certain assessments and fail, it may cost you even more.

How Long Does It Take To Process

For PCO car rental your PCO license application can take between 12 to 16 weeks to process.

Renewing Your PCO License

Four months before your license expires you will be sent an application pack. Complete the necessary paperwork and then apply for the updated DBS service to save money long-term. Take a new photo and then head over to the TfL website where you can apply for a license renewal as an existing holder.