Many PCO drivers are nervous about the TfL English tests and, in particular, the SERU assessment. This post will help you to succeed. First, let’s explain why PCO drivers must take this exam at all.
Back in 2016, TfL introduced the English Language Requirement (ELR) as part of its rules for getting the PHV driver licence you need to work as an Uber driver in London – and SERU is one half of this. Many private hire drivers in the capital also refer to this licence as a PCO badge but it’s the same thing.
Our full guide on how to get a PCO licence in 2024 is here. Right now, let’s talk about SERU.
Quick facts
In January 2024, Transport for London (TfL) announced that it is trialling a whole new format for the SERU test. More details below.
How does the SERU assessment work?
The ELR checks that every private hire driver in London can speak, listen, read and write English to an intermediate standard. This means that an Uber driver has the language skills to cope with most ‘common situations’ while on a trip to the UK.
To meet the old requirement, Uber drivers could simply provide documentary ELR evidence, such as a certificate from one of TfL’s Secure English Language Test (SELT) providers.
In 2021, TfL said that PCO drivers must take actual tests for the ELR – and it expanded the idea to check they understood the safety and rights of passengers, plus basic TfL regulations.
This new element was the Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) assessment. Rather than make London PHV drivers take an extra test, in addition to the speaking and listening exam, the SERU assessment also checks your reading and writing skills. It’s one test with two purposes.
Since April 2023, every London Uber driver must pass the SERU assessment, whether they are new to the game or an experienced driver renewing their PCO licence.
Drivers who got a PCO license before that date still have some flexibility – and we will explain what that means soon. Before that, let’s focus on how the two ELR tests work.
What does the TfL English test include?
The TfL English test – which is how some PCO drivers describe the ELR – is split into two halves.
- Speaking and listening assessment
The first test checks your verbal English language skills and it is a 15-minute conversation with an interlocutor (i.e. an examiner you speak to). This test happens at the TfL offices but it takes place over a video or telephone link with a TfL service provider called PeopleCert.
- Reading and writing assessment (SERU)
The second exam ensures you understand key points about passenger safety, equality and other TfL regulations, while also checking your written English skills. This is a 45-minute test that involves multiple-choice questions and completing sentences by filling in missing words.
The tests are run separately but most drivers take both on the same day. You can do this at the TfL office in Baker Street or West Kensington. Each costs £36 if taken for the first time or £16 for a resit.
For more practical details about exactly how to book the two ELR tests see our full guide.
