TfL Taxi Driver SERU Assessment

ByJeremy Simon

🚖 What London Taxi Drivers Need to Know About the TfL SERU Assessment

Starting 1 October 2025, all licensed London taxi drivers will be required to pass the Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) assessment. This new requirement is part of Transport for London’s effort to align with national standards and ensure drivers are fully equipped to serve the public safely and professionally.

🧠 What Is the SERU Assessment?

The SERU test evaluates a driver’s understanding of:

  • Taxi fares and payments
  • Equality and disability awareness
  • Safeguarding responsibilities
  • Safe driving and passenger safety
  • Licensing rules and regulations

It’s based on the official Taxi Driver Handbook, and drivers must also complete an online safeguarding awareness course before taking the test.

📅 Who Needs to Take It?

  • New applicants: Must pass the SERU assessment before being licensed.
  • Existing drivers: If your licence expires on or after 1 October 2025, you’ll need to pass the SERU test before renewal.

📝 What to Expect in the SERU Test

While the exact structure and format of the Taxi SERU assessment has not yet been officially confirmed, it is expected to closely follow the format used for the Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) SERU assessment. Transport for London may release further details closer to the rollout date, so it’s a good idea to check back for updates.

Based on the PHV SERU format, here’s what drivers are likely to encounter:

  • Duration: Around 45 minutes
  • Format: Computer-based, with a mix of multiple-choice questions and sentence completion
  • Number of Questions: Typically 36 questions
  • Passing Score: A minimum of 60%
  • Open Book: The PHV SERU is an open book exam, allowing reference to the official handbook during the test
  • Pre-Test Briefing: Includes a short presentation and sample questions before the test begins

These details are subject to change, so keep an eye on our posts for the latest updates.

📍 Where Is It Held?

Assessments take place at TfL’s Pier Walk Assessment Centre in North Greenwich, the same location used for Knowledge of London appearances.

This move ensures that black cab drivers meet the same safety and regulatory standards as other transport professionals, while recognising the unique demands of the taxi trade. It’s not just a test—it’s a step toward a safer, more inclusive London.

Want help preparing for the SERU or accessing the Taxi Driver Handbook? Drop us a message and we’ll point you in the right direction.

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