TfL ‘currently exceeding’ targets set for initial taxi and private hire driver licence assessments, says London Mayor

Transport for London (TfL) are ‘currently exceeding’ targets set for the initial assessment of taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV) driver applications, says Mayor of London after six-week processing turnaround proposal.

Leonie Cooper, a London Assembly Member, asked the Mayor of London for clarity and timing of the driver licensing process. She urged the Mayor of London to provide clearer guidance for applicants and proposed a six-week time frame for processing applications.

In response, Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, noted that TfL already aims to assess new and renewal applications for taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers within 10 days. He added that TfL is currently exceeding this target.

The initial assessment focuses on ensuring that applications are completed properly and all necessary documents, such as medical forms, are provided. Where information is missing, TfL will request it from the applicant.

However, Khan highlighted that the licensing process can be lengthy, particularly when it involves medical or immigration checks. PHV drivers, for instance, must meet the higher Group 2 DVLA medical standard, typically required for commercial drivers, and some are also required to pass additional mandatory assessments.

Khan said: “Transport for London (TfL) has a target of undertaking an initial assessment of a taxi or PHV driver applications (both new and renewal) within 10 days and it is currently exceeding this target.

“The initial assessment ensures the applicant has filled in their application correctly and has provided all the relevant information (e.g. medical form). If necessary, TfL will then write to the applicant requesting any missing information.  

“The licensing process has several stages. It can be iterative and can involve several requests for further information from applicants. This is often the case where there are medical issues. An applicant or driver seeking to renew a PHV driver licence needs to meet Group 2 DVLA medical guidelines, which is a higher standard than people driving a private motor car.

“There are also elements of the licensing process that are outside of TfL’s control, such as the provision of immigration information required to confirm an applicant or licensee has the right to remain and work in the country and the provision of requested medical information.

“New, and in some cases renewing PHV drivers, are also required to undertake and pass mandatory assessments.     

“It is essential for public safety that TfL ensures that every applicant meets all licensing requirements in order to be licensed.  

“TfL does recognise that drivers and applicants rely on a licence to earn a livelihood and it seeks to make decisions as soon as is practically possible once it is in possession of all relevant information.“