Everything About PCO Vehicle Inspection 2023

Before enrolling to become a driver for Uber or any other rideshare platform, it’s crucial to possess the appropriate licensing documentation. This entails fulfilling the PCO license prerequisites as a driver and also adhering to the PHV license prerequisites for your vehicle.

As a part of the vehicle licensing process, it’s essential to ensure that your vehicle aligns with the standards set by TfL. Given that TfL is the governing body responsible for granting the PHV license required to operate your vehicle with Uber, it’s imperative to comply with both TfL stipulations and Uber’s vehicle criteria.

Nevertheless, it’s important to note that not all vehicle models are endorsed by Uber. Depending on your specific location and the range of Uber services accessible, Uber maintains an extensive catalog of cars that have been approved by the platform.

Browse through the list of eligible vehicles for Uber services in London.

Pro Tip: To circumvent the complexities of dealing with car documentation, consider opting for our PCO car hire plan, which provides a hassle-free solution along with ready-to-use electric vehicles (EVs).

Table of Contents:

What Constitutes a PCO Vehicle Inspection?
What Are the Vehicle Requirements Outlined by TfL for PCO?
How Can I Register for a PCO Vehicle Inspection?
Which Documents Are Essential for the PCO Vehicle Inspection?
How Frequently Is the PCO Vehicle Inspection Mandatory?
What Are the Consequences of Failing the PCO Vehicle Inspection?

What Constitutes a PCO Vehicle Inspection?

The PCO vehicle inspection stands as an obligatory step to acquire your PCO vehicle license. It necessitates your car’s successful completion of a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) to guarantee its adherence to all safety prerequisites pertinent to on-demand transportation.

Moreover, if you’re employing your vehicle for passenger transport, it’s essential to renew your license annually. The cost for the TfL Private Hire car inspection is approximately £140.

What Are the Vehicle Requirements Outlined by TfL for PCO?

Starting from 1 January 2023, newly licensed Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs) are subject to updated emission criteria:

The vehicle’s age must not exceed ten years, or it should be a more recent model.
All PHVs must possess zero-emission capability (ZEC) and adhere to the Euro 6 emissions standard upon initial licensing.

PHVs that are entirely electric or incorporate a hydrogen fuel cell are in line with the new licensing prerequisites.

How Can I Register for a PCO Vehicle Inspection?

The most convenient and expeditious approach is to schedule an inspection online via the TfL (Transport for London) website. This enables you to select a suitable date, time, and location, with the flexibility to modify or cancel your appointment if required. Alternatively, you can secure an inspection by dialing 0343 222 5555.

Book an Inspection for Your Vehicle via TfL

DID YOU KNOW? If you’re a Splend customer, we handle all the details, including the Private Hire Vehicle license inspection every six months, right at our London Hub.

Inspection Centers in London:

Central West Site
Address: Unit 2 Aquarius Business Park, Staples corner, Priestly Way, NW2 7AN

South East Site
Address: Unit 13 & 14, Klinger Industrial Park, Edgington Way, Sidcup, DA14 5AF

North Site
Address: Unit 2, Watermill Business Centre, Edison Road, Enfield, London, EN3 7XF

West Site
Address: 20A Airlinks Industrial Estate, Spitfire Way, Heston, TW5 9NR

Central East Site
Address: Unit 10 Segro Park, Rainham, RM13 8HY

For appointments outside London, your vehicle must undergo inspection and licensing by the local council.

Locate and Get in Touch with Your Local Council

IMPORTANT: Unless the car is registered under your name, you’ll need to receive nomination from the registered keeper to act on their behalf during the application process and when presenting the vehicle for inspection

Which Documents Are Essential for the PCO Vehicle Inspection?

When attending your scheduled inspection, ensure you have the following documents readily available and up-to-date:

Existing PHV License and Discs (for renewal cases)
V5c DVLA Vehicle Registration Certificate
Hire and Reward Insurance Documents (Refer to PHV insurance and Amazon Flex insurance for comprehensive information)
MOT Certificate Issued within the Last 14 Days
Any Pertinent Vehicle Modification Documents (if applicable)
Voluntary Individual Vehicle Approval – VIVA (for personal imports and left-hand drive vehicles)
Certificate of Conformity (if required)

DID YOU KNOW? Every Splend vehicle holds a valid PHV license, so once your individual documents are in order, you can begin driving right away, while we take care of any associated paperwork.

How Frequently Is the PCO Vehicle Inspection Mandatory?

The PCO vehicle inspection is a requisite step for renewing your PHV license. As a result, you are required to have your car inspected each time you renew your license. In cases where you are operating outside of London, the frequency of inspections is determined by the local council. However, these councils are limited to conducting a maximum of three inspections per year.

What Are the Consequences of Failing the PCO Vehicle Inspection?

Ideally, aiming for a successful outcome on the first attempt is advisable to avoid incurring additional costs for a re-inspection. Preparation is key on inspection day. Ensure your vehicle fully aligns with all TfL stipulations, possess the requisite documentation, and maintains proper upkeep and servicing (absence of dents, scratches, or paint damage).

Yet, in the event that the initial inspection is unsuccessful, you have the option to schedule a re-test. This can be done as soon as 21 days from the original inspection date or at a later point, depending on the extent of repairs required.