Taxi (Black Cab) SERU Assessment 2026 – Full Guide
This guide is for the TfL Taxi (Black Cab) SERU Assessment (not PHV SERU).
Test length and structure
- Total time is 60 minutes.
- Computer based (no pen or paper)
- 36 questions
💡 Goal: Plan routes on map software, identify locations and navigate maps using directions.
Everything you need to know about the Taxi (Black Cab) SERU Assessment (2026)
The Taxi SERU assessment is TfL’s Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding test for London taxi (black cab) drivers. It checks that drivers understand day-to-day responsibilities around safety, equality, passenger support, safeguarding, and the key rules set out in the Taxi Driver Handbook.
This guide focuses on what the assessment is, who it applies to, how the day works, and how to prepare efficiently.
What is the Taxi (Black Cab) SERU assessment?
- A TfL assessment that checks your understanding of safety, equality and safeguarding duties, regulations, and driver responsibilities.
- It is based on the official Taxi Driver Handbook. Use this as your main study material: TfL Taxi Driver Handbook (latest version)
Who needs to take Taxi SERU, and when?
Taxi SERU applies to two main groups:
- New applicants applying for a taxi driver licence on or after 1 October 2025. You normally sit the assessment before you can be licensed (often around Stage 4 or 5).
- Existing licence holders whose licence expires on or after 1 October 2025. You must pass before TfL can renew your licence.
If you submit your renewal before your licence expires, TfL may allow you to continue working for up to 12 months while you complete and pass SERU (depending on the rules for your specific case).
Where the assessment happens, and what to bring
The assessment is taken at the TfL driver assessment centre, 14 Pier Walk, London SE10 0ES (near North Greenwich).
Bring:
- Original photo ID
- A payment card
Format, timing, and pass mark
Taxi SERU is completed on a computer and lasts 60 minutes. There are 36 questions, and the pass mark is 60%.
The questions include:
- 22 multiple-choice
- 12 fill-in-the-blank
- 2 reading and understanding questions
You can skip questions, flag them, and return later. There is no negative marking, so it is worth making an educated guess if you are stuck.
Is it open book?
Yes. Taxi SERU is open book, and TfL provides a copy of the handbook at the assessment centre (you cannot bring your own copy).
Because you only have 60 minutes for 36 questions, speed matters. Many candidates find it challenging not because the content is complicated, but because it is easy to lose time searching through the handbook.
Booking, fees, retakes, and results
TfL will usually contact you as your licence expiry approaches. If you want to book earlier, you can email assessments@tph.tfl.gov.uk.
Fees are typically:
- £36 for the first attempt
- £16 per retest
If you do not pass, you can usually retake the assessment (fees apply). Results are commonly issued within 15 days, but it can take longer.
Safeguarding requirement (do this first)
Before you sit Taxi SERU, you must complete the Safeguarding Awareness Course. This is an online video course that you complete at home, and it is not supervised.
Link: TfL Safeguarding
Taxi SERU vs PHV SERU (they are not the same)
Taxi SERU is for taxi drivers and is not the same as the SERU used for private hire (PHV) licensing. The two assessments use different handbooks and different content structures. Taxi SERU is typically based on 12 sections, while the PHV SERU handbook is typically structured into 10 sections. PHV licensing also includes a separate B1 Speaking and Listening English test.
How to revise and pass (without wasting time)
Most people pass by doing two things consistently:
- Read the Taxi Driver Handbook so you know where information is located.
- Practise timed mocks in the same style as the real test until you are comfortably scoring 70%+.
Use our official-format mock pack here: TfL Taxi (Black Cab) SERU Mock Test Pack
A common revision timeline is around 2 weeks, but it depends on English reading speed and computer confidence.
English level and accessibility support
You will need good English reading skills to work quickly under time pressure.
If you have a disability or learning difficulty, TfL may be able to provide reasonable adjustments if you submit evidence. Email assessments@tph.tfl.gov.uk to request support.
