How to Become an Uber Driver in London: The Complete Step by Step Guide

Becoming an Uber driver in London offers the freedom to be your own boss, set your own hours, and earn a steady income. Whether you’re after full-time flexibility or a reliable side hustle, being an Uber driver is a great way to unlock new opportunities, especially in a fast-paced city like London. That said, becoming an Uber driver in London involves more than just signing up.

London’s private hire industry is one of the most heavily regulated in the world, with Transport for London (TfL) enforcing strict standards around driver eligibility, vehicle safety, and professional conduct. Before you can accept your first ride, you’ll need to secure a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence (also known as a PCO licence), which includes passing a DBS background check, a medical exam, English and topographical tests, and proving your right to work in the UK. Your vehicle must also meet TfL’s strict criteria, from ULEZ compliance to six-monthly inspections.

That’s where this guide comes in. We've created an easy-to-follow roadmap to becoming an Uber driver in London, breaking down uber driver requirements and every step into clear, manageable actions. Whether you're just getting starting or are stuck at one of the many steps, this guide will help you move forward with confidence.

We’ll also share how Splend can be your trusted PCO partner in the process, simplifying everything from licensing to getting a fully compliant vehicle. The path to becoming an Uber driver in London doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, so don’t let the red tape hold you back from building a future as an independent driver. With the right guidance, you’re closer than you think.

Are you eligible to become an Uber driver in London?

1. Checking the Core Requirements

Before diving into the application process, it’s important to start with the basics, asking yourself "Do I meet the core eligibility criteria set by TfL?". This step ensures you’re not wasting time or money pursuing a licence you may not yet qualify for.

2. Driver Requirements: Age, Licence & Experience

To drive for Uber in London, you must be at least 21 years old, hold a full UK driving licence, and have at least three years of driving experience. These requirements are in place to ensure drivers have the maturity, local driving familiarity, and road safety skills needed to operate professionally in London’s fast-paced environment. Note that EU or foreign licences are not accepted. If you hold one, you’ll need to exchange it for a UK licence through the DVLA before applying. You’ll also need to make sure your licence has no major endorsements or disqualifications, as TfL will assess your driving history as part of the application.

3. Background & Character Requirements: The DBS Check

Safety is a top priority for TfL, which is why you must pass an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check as part of your Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence application. This criminal record check costs £52 and must be completed through a TfL-approved provider. The enhanced check looks at both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings, including any information held by local police that may be relevant to your suitability as a licensed driver. It’s designed to ensure all drivers meet TfL’s strict standards for public safety and trust, especially when working with vulnerable passengers.

If you've lived abroad in the past 10 years, you may also need to provide a Certificate of Good Conduct from the relevant country, translated into English.

The PCO Licence Application: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Now that you know you’re eligible, let’s dive into what’s involved in the PCO licence application.

Step 1: The Medical Examination

First up, you’ll need to pass a DVLA Group 2 Medical Assessment. This is basically a thorough health check like those required for commercial drivers. They’ll look at your vision, neurological health, and anything else that could affect your ability to drive safely. Expect to pay around £80 to £150 for this. Think of it as a quick pit stop to make sure you’re road-ready before TfL gives you the green light.

Step 2: The Topographical Skills Assessment

Next comes the Topographical Skills Assessment, where you’ll demonstrate your navigation skills using an A-Z atlas (traditionally on paper, though some test centres may now use digital versions).

You’ll need to plan routes and use the index to show you know London’s maze of streets, from quiet back roads to major landmarks. The pass mark is 60%, and you’ll take the test under timed, exam-style conditions, so it’s worth brushing up on your map-reading and route-planning skills. The more familiar you are with London’s layout, the more confident you’ll feel, and the less likely you are to get lost before you even start!

Step 3: The English Language Requirement

Communication is key on the road, so you’ll need to pass an English language test with two parts: a speaking & listening conversation, plus a reading & writing section. This ensures you can understand directions, chat with passengers, and handle any unexpected situations calmly.

Step 4: The SERU Assessment (Safety, Equality & Regulatory Understanding)

Then there’s the SERU test - a mandatory, computer-based assessment that checks your understanding of Safety, Equality, and Regulatory Understanding. It covers everything from TfL’s rules around driver conduct and passenger safety to equality legislation and licensing responsibilities. The test includes 37 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll need to score at least 60% to pass.

Think of it as your final checkpoint before becoming a fully licensed professional driver. It’s designed to ensure you know the rules, respect the rights of all passengers, and are prepared to operate safely and responsibly on London’s roads.

Step 5: Submitting Your Application & Costs

Once you’ve ticked all the boxes, it’s time to submit your Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence application. The current cost is £310 for a licence that lasts three years, but keep in mind prices are set to rise in 2025.

If you’re feeling unsure at any stage, Uber's Ignition Programme is a fantastic (and completely free) resource for first-time drivers. Whether you need help navigating the paperwork, booking your tests, or uploading your documents correctly, Ignition advisors can guide you through each step with confidence and clarity. It’s support like this that can make all the difference when starting your Uber journey.

Getting Your PCO-Approved Vehicle: The Smarter Way

Once you’ve passed your tests and secured your PCO licence, you’re almost ready to hit the road. But there’s one final hurdle… the vehicle. This can be one of the trickiest parts of the process. The good news? You don’t have to tackle it alone - Splend is here to help. 

The Solution: An All-Inclusive PCO Car Subscription

Splend’s all-inclusive PCO car subscription plan takes the stress out of getting a TfL-approved vehicle, and is by far the easiest way to clear the vehicle hurdle without the upfront costs, admin headaches, or compliance worries. You’ll get a brand-new, Zero-Emission Capable (ZEC) electric car, fully approved for PCO use in London, plus all the essentials bundled into one simple weekly payment, including:

• Your PCO vehicle licence

• PHV damage and loss cover

• Servicing and maintenance

• Road tax, MOTs, and replacement tyres & brakes

• 24/7 driver support and customer care

There are no hidden costs, no long-term commitments, and no confusing paperwork. Simply start your journey with our Flexi Own plan, and work towards car ownership over time. If you prefer to test the waters and are looking for something flexible, Splend also offers out Flexi Try Plan.

Splend handles the details, so you can focus on earning. It’s the smart, hassle-free way to meet TfL’s strict requirements and start your Uber journey with confidence, fully supported, fully compliant, and fully electric.

Prefer to License Your Own Vehicle?

If you’d rather license and use your own car, it’s absolutely possible, but there are a few extra hoops to jump through. TfL has strict rules around vehicle type, age, and emissions, and meeting them can take time, effort, and a significant upfront investment.

London’s Strict Vehicle Rules: Zero-Emission Capable (ZEC)

Any vehicle being licensed for PCO use in London for the first time must meet Zero-Emission Capable (ZEC) standards. That means it needs to be fully electric or a plug-in hybrid that meets specific electric range and emission criteria. TfL’s push toward a greener future is great for the city, but it does put pressure on new drivers to get the right vehicle from the start. And with limited options that meet these standards, plus rising costs and changing regulations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to choose the right car on your own. That’s why it’s so important to do your research, choose a vehicle that’s future-proofed for TfL’s evolving rules, and make sure it’s fully PCO-ready before committing.

Understanding the Challenge: Buying vs. Renting vs. Subscribing

Buying a ZEC-compliant car outright is expensive, with many EVs costing upwards of £25,000. And that’s before adding insurance, servicing, and road tax! Renting might seem more affordable upfront, but often excludes key essentials like PHV insurance or vehicle maintenance, leaving you with more admin and more costs.

That’s why an all-inclusive solution like Splend’s subscription model is such a popular choice - especially if you’re new to the industry and want to avoid surprises. See how Splend's plans compares to buying or renting your PCO car.

Activating Your Uber Account & Hitting the Road

With your PCO licence and vehicle sorted, the final step is activating your Uber account so you can start accepting trips.

Uploading Your Documents to Uber

Here’s what you’ll need to upload via the Uber app:

• Your full PCO licence (both front and back)

• UK driving licence

• Vehicle logbook (V5C) – provided by Splend

• PHV insurance certificate – also provided by Splend

• MOT certificate (if applicable)

• Any other documents Uber requests (they’ll guide you through it)

Visiting an Uber Greenlight Hub

If anything gets stuck or you’d prefer in-person help, head to an Uber Greenlight Hub. These centres offer hands-on support for new and experienced drivers, from document checks to account setup.

London Greenlight Hub Location:

• Address: 1-13 Saint Mary's Road, London, E16 1QY

• Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10am – 4pm

Understanding Your Earning Potential in London

Before you hit the road, it’s worth understanding what kind of income you can expect, and how to make the most of your time behind the wheel. So let’s talk numbers.

How Much Can You Actually Earn?

Uber earnings in London can vary depending on how often and when you drive, but you can expect to earn £250 to £800 per week, with many drivers averaging £20 to £25 per hour. These figures can rise significantly during high-demand periods, and by using an electric vehicle, you’ll also save on fuel and congestion charges.

Maximising Your Income: Peak Hours & Locations

By working smarter, not harder - and choosing the right vehicle with the right support - you’ll be well on your way to making Uber driving in London a success. To boost your earnings, timing and location are everything. The highest demand tends to be:

• Weekday mornings (6–10am) for commuters

• Evenings (5–8pm) for post-work travel

• Weekend nights for nightlife crowds

Top hotspots include Soho, Liverpool Street, Paddington, King’s Cross, Canary Wharf, and Heathrow - all areas with high passenger traffic and surge pricing potential.

Your Journey to Becoming an Uber Driver Starts Now

From confirming your eligibility and passing TfL’s rigorous assessments to securing a compliant vehicle and activating your Uber account, becoming an Uber driver in London is a detailed process. But…it’s absolutely achievable.

Yes, there’s red tape. Yes, the standards are high. But with the right guidance, the right mindset, and the right partners by your side, you can move through each step with confidence. So whether you’re looking for full-time freedom or a steady side income, driving with Uber opens the door to a more flexible and independent way of working. Your journey starts now.

Need more help? At Splend, we’ve helped thousands of drivers navigate this exact path - and we’re here to help you do the same. Let’s get you on the road and earning. 

About Splend

At Splend, we believe in drivers. We know their vehicles need to work harder than most; that they drive more miles than most; that their insurance is hefty; their maintenance costs high and that they can face unreasonable finance rates – which is a heavy load to carry on their own.

That’s why at Splend, we exist to support rideshare drivers with a new model, that takes all those car ownership costs, and provides them for less, with lower purchase prices, better rates, lower servicing and insurance costs – all for one weekly repayment, all in one place.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a PCO licence in London?

The entire process can take anywhere from 3 to 16 weeks, depending on how quickly you complete each step and TfL's processing times. Booking your medical exam and tests promptly is key. Partnering with a service like Splend helps by ensuring your vehicle and its documents are ready the moment your personal licence is approved, speeding up the final stage.

What happens if I fail the SERU or Topographical test?

For both the SERU and Topographical skills tests, you are given two attempts. If you fail the first time, you can book a second attempt. However, if you fail the second attempt, your entire PCO application will be withdrawn, and you will need to start the whole process over again, including paying the application fees. It's crucial to prepare thoroughly for these tests.

Do I really need an electric car to be an Uber driver in London?

If you are getting a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence for a car for the first time, TfL requires it to be a Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) vehicle. While this includes some plug-in hybrids, opting for a fully electric vehicle (EV) is the most future-proof choice. EVs are exempt from the Congestion Charge and ULEZ fees, and you can benefit from incentives like the Uber Clean Air Plan, significantly lowering your running costs.

Is it better to get a car from Splend than to buy my own?

While buying a car offers total ownership, it comes with a high upfront cost, the risk of depreciation, and the responsibility of arranging your own (expensive) PHV insurance, maintenance, and licensing. A Splend subscription removes all these hurdles. For a single weekly payment, you get a new EV with everything included, allowing you to start earning faster with less financial risk and administrative hassle.