TfL B1 Speaking & Listening Test (English Requirement - 2026 Full Guide

The TfL B1 Speaking & Listening test (also known as the English Language test, or simply B1) is a basic English communication assessment required by TfL. It checks that PHV drivers can understand passengers, speak clearly, and respond appropriately in everyday travel situations.

It is mandatory for all PHV applicants and TfL no longer accepts qualification-based exemptions (even if you have a degree or GCSE/college qualifications).

This guide summarises the format, timings, and question types using a real-style practice paper, plus the key rules PHV applicants usually ask about.

Test length and structure

Total time is usually 11–13 minutes.
The test is split into 4 parts.
You will speak with an examiner (the interlocutor).

💡 Goal: Speak clearly, answer the question directly, and keep your answers long enough to show your English (but not so long that you lose track of the question).

Part 1: Personal questions (about 1.5–2.5 minutes)

This part is a short conversation about you.

You can expect:

Identity checks and simple admin questions (for example, spelling your name)
Everyday questions about your life and preferences

Example topic from the sample paper: sports and physical activities

Do you enjoy sports or physical activities? Why or why not?
What is your favourite way to stay active?
How often do you exercise or play sports?
Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities?

Part 2: Role-play situations (about 3 minutes)

You will do short role-plays (usually two situations, sometimes three if time allows).

What this tests:

Starting a conversation politely
Asking for help
Explaining a problem
Responding appropriately

Examples from the sample paper:

Doctor check-up: the interlocutor starts and you respond naturally.
Clothing shop: you start by asking for help, then respond to questions.

Part 3: Discussion (about 3 minutes)

You will discuss a topic with the interlocutor. This is more like a structured conversation.

Example topic from the sample paper: healthy living

What do you do to stay healthy?
Is it easy or difficult to live a healthy lifestyle? Why?
What changes would you like to make to improve your health?
Is it important to include physical activities in schools for young students? Why or why not?

Part 4A: Listening, note-taking, and questions (about 3 minutes)

The interlocutor reads a short text twice.

You should:

Listen carefully
Take notes
Answer questions based on what you heard

Example listening topic from the sample paper: drinking water

Typical question styles:

A direct question about the main idea (Why is it important?)
A detail question (How many glasses each day?)
A benefits question (What are two benefits?)
A simple multiple-choice comprehension question (for example, the tone: serious, informative, casual)

Part 4B: 1.5-minute talk + follow-up questions (about 2.5–3 minutes total)

You will speak on your own for about 1.5 minutes.

You get 30 seconds to prepare notes.

Example speaking task from the sample paper:

Talk about: A healthy habit you have

Then the interlocutor asks follow-up questions, such as:

How did you start this habit and why?
How has it helped you in daily life?
Would you recommend it to others? Why?
How long does it take to adopt a new habit?

Simple tips to score well

Answer in full sentences. Avoid one-word replies.
Explain “why”. It immediately makes your answer stronger.
Use linking words like “because”, “for example”, “also”, “however”.
In Part 4A, write keywords only (not full sentences) so you can keep listening.
In Part 4B, keep a clear structure: start, explain, give an example, finish.

Key FAQs (quick answers)

Where is the test held? At TfL assessment centres in West Kensington and Greenwich (the same locations used for SERU and Topographical assessments).
How much does it cost? Typically £36 for the first attempt, and £16 for a resit.
When do you need to pass? You must pass before SERU and before your PHV licence can be issued.
Can you work (Uber/Bolt) before passing? No. You cannot work until B1 is passed, SERU is passed, and your licence is issued.
What happens if you fail? You must rebook and resit. You cannot take SERU or receive your PHV licence until you pass.
When will TfL invite you to book? After your documents are approved, TfL invites you in the online portal.
Do you have to write anything? No, but you can make notes.
Can you skip questions and come back? No.
Do you get partial marks? Yes, you can get marks for partially correct spoken answers.
How is the test conducted? It is run at the TfL Assessment Centre, typically as a video call with an examiner.