---
title: How to Get a PCO Licence in Sutton (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)
description: Thinking of becoming a private hire driver in Sutton? This guide shows you how to get your PCO licence with application tips, local help, & what to expect.
image: https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hubfs/takahiro-taguchi-_SKIDRiIEtk-unsplash%20(1).jpg
---

[Skip to content](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide#main-content)

![Sherwood Logo-2](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Sherwood%20Logo-2.jpg?width=100&height=75&name=Sherwood%20Logo-2.jpg)

- [Home](https://sherwoodtgroup.com)
- [Services](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/services)
- [Drivers](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/drivers)
- [Assistants](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/passenger-assistants)
- [Parents](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/parents)
- [Councils](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/councils)

Open main navigation

Close main navigation

- [Home](https://sherwoodtgroup.com)
- [Services](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/services)
- [Drivers](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/drivers)
- [Assistants](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/passenger-assistants)
- [Parents](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/parents)
- [Councils](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/councils)
- [Contact us](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/contact)

[Contact us](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/contact)

[All posts](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/all)

 August 7, 2025

# How to Get a PCO Licence in Sutton (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

![Picture of Faheem Nasir](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Faheem%20Nasir%20ACIM.png?width=50&name=Faheem%20Nasir%20ACIM.png) By  [Faheem Nasir](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/author/faheem-nasir)  ·   2 minute read

If you're based in Sutton and looking to become a private hire driver, you’ll need a PCO (Private Hire Vehicle) licence from Transport for London (TfL). This guide breaks down the process clearly so you can start earning as a licensed driver — whether you're planning to drive with Uber, Bolt, or do regular school run work with companies like Sherwood T Group.

### What is a PCO Licence?

A PCO licence (now called a Private Hire Driver Licence) is issued by TfL and allows you to drive private hire vehicles legally in London. It's essential whether you're driving full-time or just part-time on fixed routes like school runs.

### Step-by-Step: How to Get a PCO Licence in Sutton

#### 1. **Meet the basic requirements**

To apply, you must:

- Be at least 21 years old
- Hold a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years
- Have the right to work in the UK

#### 2. **Apply for a DBS Check (Enhanced Criminal Record Check)**

This is required for all applicants.

- Register with the DBS update service
- Apply through TfL’s approved provider (e.g. GBGroup or Onfido)
- Cost: around £60

#### 3. **Pass a Medical Exam**

- Download the TfL medical form (TPH/204)
- Book an appointment with your GP
- You must meet Group 2 medical standards (like HGV drivers)

#### 4. **Pass an English Language Requirement (ELR)**

- You’ll need to prove your ability to read, write, speak, and listen in English.
- You can do this with a GCSE or equivalent — or sit a SELT (Secure English Language Test)

#### 5. **Complete the TfL SERU Assessment (Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding)**

- This replaced the old Topographical Skills Test
- You must understand TfL’s rules, safety standards, and accessibility requirements
- Recommended to prepare using the TfL SERU study guide

#### 6. **Submit Your Application Online**

- Register with TfL’s PHV Licensing portal
- Upload all documents: ID, medical, DBS, ELR proof, SERU booking confirmation
- Pay the application fee (around £170)

#### 7. **Await Approval & Badge Issuance**

- TfL processing times vary, but expect 8–16 weeks
- Once approved, you’ll receive your PCO badge and licence

### Where to Get Help in Sutton

If you’re not sure where to start, there are local services that can help:

- **Sutton Library** (for internet access and printing)
- **Local GP practices** (for medical checks)
- **TfL-approved centres in South London** (for DBS and English tests)

### How Sherwood T Group Can Help

We work with new and experienced PCO drivers across Sutton. Whether you're just starting out or looking for term-time only school-run work, we offer:

- Fixed AM + PM routes
- Weekly pay
- Vehicle options available
- Friendly support team

We can also help guide you through your PCO application.

### FAQ

**How much does it cost to get a PCO licence?** Expect to spend around £300–£400 including medical, DBS, and TfL fees.

**Can I do Uber and school runs at the same time?** Yes. Many drivers work school runs in the morning and afternoon and use Uber in between.

**Do I need my own car to get started?** No. Some operators, including Sherwood T Group, offer vehicles for PCO drivers.

### Final Tip

Start early — the application process can take a few months. But once you're licensed, you’ve got options: school runs, app-based driving, and flexible income that works around your life.

Ready to start your journey? Let us know how we can help.

Share: [facebook-f icon](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide) [twitter icon](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide) [pinterest-p icon](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/link/?url=https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide) [envelope icon](mailto:?body=https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide)

## Related posts

[![How to Get a PCO License](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hubfs/How%20to%20get%20a%20PCO%20License%20Featured%20Image.png)](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-apply-for-a-pco-license-in-the-uk-a-step-by-step-guide)

[guides](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/tag/guides)

### [How to Apply for a PCO License in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-apply-for-a-pco-license-in-the-uk-a-step-by-step-guide)

[![DBS Check](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hubfs/Imported%20sitepage%20images/DBS-banner.jpg)](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-apply-for-an-advanced-dbs-check-a-step-by-step-guide)

[guides](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/tag/guides)

### [How to Apply for an Advanced DBS Check: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-apply-for-an-advanced-dbs-check-a-step-by-step-guide)

[![Special Educational Needs SEN](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hubfs/Services%20Header%20(1).png)](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/what-is-sen-transport-a-guide-for-parents-and-guardians)

### [What is SEN Transport? A Guide for Parents and Guardians](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/what-is-sen-transport-a-guide-for-parents-and-guardians)

[![Sherwood T Group Logo - tree only-1](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Sherwood%20T%20Group%20Logo%20-%20tree%20only-1.png?width=200&height=161&name=Sherwood%20T%20Group%20Logo%20-%20tree%20only-1.png "Sherwood T Group Logo - tree only-1")](https://sherwoodtgroup.com)

# Sherwood T Group

### *From Doorstep to Destination. We'll be your side.*

facebook-f icon linkedin-in icon twitter icon instagram icon

**Pages**

[Home](https://sherwoodtgroup.com)

[Services](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/services)

[Councils](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/councils)

[Parents](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/parents)

[About](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/about)

**Resources**

[Blog](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog)

[Drivers](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/drivers)

[Passenger Assistants](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/passenger-assistants)

[Contact](https://sherwoodtgroup.com/contact)

Copyright © 2026, Sherwood T Group

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Faheem Nasir",
    "url" : "https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/author/faheem-nasir"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2025-08-07T17:24:24.789Z",
  "datePublished" : "2025-08-07T17:24:24.000Z",
  "headline" : "How to Get a PCO Licence in Sutton (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)",
  "image" : [ "https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hubfs/takahiro-taguchi-_SKIDRiIEtk-unsplash%20(1).jpg" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://sherwoodtgroup.com/hubfs/Sherwood%20Logo-1.jpg"
    },
    "name" : "Sherwood T Group"
  }
}
```

```json
{
  "@context" : "http://schema.org",
  "@type" : "Article",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : [ "Faheem Nasir" ],
    "url" : "https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/author/faheem-nasir"
  },
  "datePublished" : "2025-08-07T17:24:24+0000",
  "description" : "Thinking of becoming a private hire driver in Sutton? This guide shows you how to get your PCO licence with application tips, local help, & what to expect.",
  "headline" : "How to Get a PCO Licence in Sutton (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)",
  "image" : "https://139823056.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/139823056/takahiro-taguchi-_SKIDRiIEtk-unsplash%20%281%29.jpg",
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://f.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/139823056/Sherwood%20Logo-1.jpg"
    },
    "name" : "Sherwood T Group"
  },
  "url" : "https://sherwoodtgroup.com/blog/how-to-get-a-pco-licence-in-sutton-2025-step-by-step-guide"
}
```