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5 Changes Awaiting PHV Drivers in 2023
We’ve compiled a list of five upcoming changes in 2023 that PHV drivers in London should be aware of. These changes are a combination of updates by Transport for London, the DVLA, and the government.
1. Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) Vehicles
Starting from January 1, 2023, TfL will require Private Hire Vehicle licensing to be exclusive to Zero Emission Capable vehicles. To obtain a new license for private hire purposes, the vehicle must meet ZEC criteria. Vehicles without ZEC capability and no previous Private Hire Vehicle License will no longer qualify for licensing as private hire vehicles in London.
To comply with ZEC standards, vehicles must:
* Emit a maximum of 50g/km CO2 and have the ability to operate with zero exhaust emissions for a minimum range of 10 miles.
* Emit a maximum of 75g/km CO2 exhaust emissions and have the ability to operate with zero emissions for a minimum range of 20 miles.
2. Expansion of 20mph Speed Limit Roads in London
Transport for London will increase the number of roads with a 20mph speed limit in the boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Islington, Haringey, and Camden. Private Hire Drivers spend significant time on the road, so being aware of these changes is crucial to avoid penalties for speeding.
Here are some of the roads that will have the new 20mph speed limit, expected to take effect from around February 2023:
* Seven Sisters Road A503
* City Road A501
* Finchley Road A41
* Holloway Road A1
* Kingsland Road A10
* Mile End Road A11
* The Highway A1203
3. ULEZ Expansion
Starting from August 29, 2023, the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expansion will encompass all London boroughs. Drivers with vehicles that do not meet ULEZ requirements and drive within any London borough will be subject to a daily charge of £12.50.
There is a longer grace period for wheelchair-accessible Private Hire Vehicles. They will be allowed to continue driving within the Ultra-Low Emission Zone until October 24, 2027.
4. Fuel Duty Increase in 2023
PHV drivers will face the impact of the cost-of-living crisis in 2023, with fuel prices set to rise again in March. In March 2022, the government temporarily reduced fuel duty by 5p per litre. However, drivers may experience fuel price hikes of up to 12p per litre.
5. First SERU Assessment Deadline
There are two significant dates related to SERU assessments for Private Hire Drivers in 2023. Starting from April 1, 2023, new PHV driving license applicants must complete the TfL SERU assessment and the Speaking & Listening test before receiving their Private Hire Driver’s License.
September 30, 2023, serves as the SERU assessment deadline for Private Hire drivers who were licensed before September 30, 2021, and did not submit their evidence for the English Language Requirement. Drivers falling into this category will also need to complete the TfL Speaking & Listening test.
