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Transport for London

Vehicles

Black cab You need to get a PCO licence when you first get your London taxi (black cab) and every year from then on.

Your taxi must meet high design standards as set out in the Conditions of Fitness (PDF 240KB) before we can give you a licence. You will also need to get it inspected.

Getting licensed

First of all you need to book an appointment with SGS (they do the inspections for us) on 0845 378 2345. If you pass the inspection you'll get two five-digit licence plates and your taxi's licensed for 12 months.

SGS will write to you to let you know when you need to get your taxi inspected again the following year, and also when your mid-year inspection is. More about inspections.

Taxi licensing for unlicensed drivers

If you are not a licensed taxi driver and are having your taxi licensed for the first time please contact us to arrange a Criminal Records Check.

Costs

Licensing your taxi will cost £178. You should pay this when booking your appointment.

Fee Cost  Refundable
Application and inspection fee £107 No
Licence fee £71 Yes, if a vehicle fails the first inspection and re-inspection
Total £178

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