The test for Speaking & Listening

For Private Hire Drivers who have successfully fulfilled their English language requirement within the specified timeframe and had it accepted by TfL, there is no need to undergo an additional speaking and listening test with TfL.

However, they are still required to complete the SERU . by 31 March 2025. If you would like more information about the SERU deadline and dates, please refer to our blog.

If you submitted your English language requirement late (after 30 September 2021) or if TfL did not accept your evidence, you will be required to complete both the SERU . and the TfL speaking and listening test. Additionally, all new applicants for a Private Hire driver’s license must fulfil both the SERU . and the speaking & listening test requirement.

The previous English Language Requirement by TfL has been replaced by the SERU ., which covers the Reading and Writing components, while the Speaking and Listening test focuses on the remaining aspects.

Information on the TfL Speaking & Listening Test:

Similar to the SERU ., the cost for the Speaking and Listening test with TfL is £36, and if you fail the test on the first attempt, you have the opportunity to re-sit it once for £16. You are allowed only two chances to pass the test.

The Speaking and Listening test is conducted at a TfL office and is facilitated through a secure video or telephone link with a company called PeopleCert’s.

Breakdown of the Speaking & Listening Test for Private Hire Drivers:

* The speaking and listening test typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete.

* The pass mark for the test is 60/100 (60%).

* The test consists of 5 parts, which we will outline in detail below.

The TfL Speaking & Listening Test: Breakdown of 5 Parts

1. Personal Information and Subject Discussions: The test begins with the examiner engaging in a conversation with you, asking personal questions such as your name. Then, you will discuss four subjects provided by the examiner. For instance, you might be asked about your internet usage or what you had for breakfast. These discussions will be brief, with one question per subject, and you can respond with a single sentence.

2. Situational Role Play: In this part, the examiner will present four situational subjects to initiate a role play. For example, they may act as a waiter in a café while you pretend to express dissatisfaction with the food. You will engage in a conversation with the examiner, playing out the scenario.

3. Image-Based Discussion: Part 3 involves a discussion with the examiner based on presented images. The examiner will use the information depicted in the pictures to initiate conversation, and you will continue the discussion using other images provided.

4. Listening Comprehension: In the fourth part, the examiner will read a paragraph aloud, and you need to listen attentively. Following the reading, you will be given three questions based on the content. Take notes of potential answers using the provided pen and paper. Subsequently, you will verbally provide answers to the three questions.

5. Extended Speaking: The final part requires you to speak for approximately one and a half minutes on a topic presented by the examiner. For instance, the examiner might ask about your favourite movie. You will have half a minute to take notes on the points you want to discuss. The examiner may ask follow-up questions related to the topics you mentioned during your speech.

If you need help passing your Speaking & Listening test, we have tutors fluent in a range of languages including Urdu, Bangla, Pashto, Dari and Somali to help you pass your test.

Just get in touch with us via our Whatsapp Support Desk.