9 PCO Application Errors to Avoid And Pass Your Licence Application

Do you want to become a PCO driver and are unsure how to apply for a PCO licence? If yes, keep reading.

The importance of a PCO licence cannot be overstated, as without it, you cannot start picking up passengers. Besides, most ride-hailing platforms, like Uber and Bolt, require a PCO licence before you can begin to drive for them.

However, the PCO application process can be tedious and complex, and this can cause most applicants to make errors and get rejected. This article will focus on the mistakes to avoid when applying for your PCO license while decreasing the chances of your application getting rejected.

So, let’s get right to it.

Incorrect or Incomplete Applications

One of the major reasons why most people get rejected is because they do not fill out the application form completely or they made errors while filling out the application form. You must take care when filling in your details to avoid making any mistake with your name, address, or contact details, as this can cause issues with verification.

Plus, double-check the form multiple times to avoid not filling out the mandatory fields. You can also ask experienced drivers to cross-check your application to avoid errors.

Incorrect Documentation

You must ensure that all the documents you submit are valid and match the details you filled in on your application. If you submit an expired driving license or passport, your local councils will reject your application. The same goes for if your proof of address, like a bank statement or utility bill, does not match the address you provided in the application.

This is why you need to ensure that all your documents are up to date before you start your application.

Failing the Medical Examination

Local councils require a medical examination to make sure that you are fit to drive, but if you fail the exam, you will not be able to. You must disclose any medical conditions that you want to avoid discovery later, which can lead to your rejection.

You can also visit your doctor beforehand to check if your medical condition will affect your driving fitness eligibility. Additionally, local councils like TfL only accept medical reports from a few approved practitioners, so if you use a doctor who is not approved, your application can be rejected.

Incorrect/ Incomplete Topographical Test

You need to be able to pass a topographical skills test to prove that you can read and interpret maps. However, if you do not adequately prepare for the test, you may be stuck with submitting an incomplete test, leading to a rejection.

To avoid this, you need to familiarise yourself with the test format by using online resources, taking preparation courses, and doing practice tests at training centres.

Lack of English Language Skills

You need to meet the local council's English language requirement to become a PHV driver, and failing the English test will result in a rejection. Some applicants underestimate the English test because they assume they have sufficient language skills but then end up failing the spoken or written portion.

If English is not your native language, you need to practice your reading and writing and review sample English tests to improve your performance.

Besides, if you use a non-approved test centre to book your English language skills test, your test certificate will be invalid, leading to a rejection.

Lack of Background Check Transparency

Local councils and TfL use the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) to conduct background checks, but you need to be transparent about your record before applying. If you do not disclose your past criminal record, it can lead to flagging during the DBS check and an automatic rejection.

If you have any complaints lodged against you, especially if they are related to inappropriate behaviour or professional misconduct, your application will be rejected. The same goes for if you have penalties related to sexual offences, like trafficking, assaults, or indecent behaviour.

Late Payment

Your application may be delayed or rejected if you do not pay the PCO application costs on time or if you pay the incorrect fee. This can happen because most local transport councils, like TfL, have strict deadlines for applications, and failure to meet them will cause delays.

However, to avoid any issues with payment, make sure you use the official TfL payment method and check the current fees on the website if you are a driver in London.

Ignoring Vehicle Compliance Requirements

There are strict vehicle compliance requirements for PCO-licensed cars, and you must ensure that your car meets these requirements. This is because if your car doesn't meet the required age and emission standards, you cannot use it for private hire work.

Additionally, you need to check your local transport council’s approved vehicle list before you buy a car for PHV work.

Not Following Up with Your Application

If you do not track your application, this can result in delays. If you don’t follow up, you can miss follow-up requests for additional information, and this can result in rejection. You should check your application status regularly and maintain proper communication with the local transport council by checking your mail and phone messages.

Besides, if there are queries, you need to respond to them on time to avoid delays in processing time.

Getting the Wrong Insurance

Most new private hire drivers make the mistake of thinking they only need to get personal car insurance. As a PHV driver, your regular car insurance does not cover your private hire driving work, and using it will result in penalties, fines, and even revocation of your PCO licence.

Besides, several insurance companies offer PCO insurance policies that meet the regulatory requirements.

How to Make Sure Your PCO Application Is Successful

To increase your chances of getting your PCO application approved, you need to follow the steps outlined below.

Ensure that you are eligible for the PCO licence
Make sure that all necessary documents, such as medical reports, means of identification, and proof of address, are available.
Practice and pass all the required tests, like the topographical assessment and English skills test.
Ensure that your application is error-free with valid confirmation of payment.
Do not ignore any deadlines.
Endeavour to stay updated with your application and respond to any requests quickly.
Use online guides and get advice from current private hire vehicle drivers.

Wrapping Up

By avoiding the common PCO application mistakes, you will be able to have a smooth licensing process while increasing your chances of getting approved.

You need to prepare accordingly and pay attention to details to enable you to achieve your goal of becoming a licensed PHV driver.

Plus, once you get your PCO licence, the driving opportunities are endless, as you can choose to drive for a ride-hailing service or run your own private hire service.