Author: Jeremy Simon

Given that all private hire drivers eventually need to complete the TfL SERU assessment, it is important to be well-prepared.

To pass the TfL SERU test, you must undergo an examination at a TfL centre. The test lasts for 45 minutes and includes 37 questions. In order to pass, you need to achieve a score of 60% or higher.

The 37 questions include: 18 multiple-choice questions, 2 reading and understanding questions, and 17 drag and drop questions. You can try free sample TfL SERU Assessment questions here. Let’s delve into these question types below.

Multiple-Choice Questions (18 Questions):

These questions are based on the 10 sections of the TfL PHV Driver’s Handbook. As the name implies, each question presents multiple answers to choose from, with the requirement of selecting one correct answer in most cases.

However, be cautious, as some questions may ask for two answers. Take your time to read these questions carefully and select the appropriate number of answers.

Here’s an example of a multiple-choice question:

Reading & Understanding Questions (2 Questions):

Although only two of these questions appear on the test, they hold significant importance since they are not necessarily based on any sections of the TfL PHV Driver’s Handbook.

These questions involve a paragraph that requires reading and comprehension, followed by selecting a true statement based on the given paragraph.

Here’s an example of a Reading & Understanding Question:

Drag & Drop Questions (17 Questions):

These questions are relatively straightforward but may require some practice to become accustomed to. Similar to the multiple-choice questions, they are based on sections of the TfL PHV Driver’s Handbook.

In these questions, you are presented with a sentence containing gaps that need to be filled with words. You can select the appropriate words from a list provided below and drag them into the gaps.

An essential aspect of the drag and drop questions is ensuring that any unused words are placed in the pink box before submitting your response. Each sentence will have three missing words, and you can choose from a selection of six words.

Pay attention to the spelling of the words, as some commonly have spelling mistakes made by people.

Here’s an example of what a TfL SERU Drag & Drop Question looks like:

To gain a realistic experience of the TfL SERU assessment, we encourage you to sign up for TfL SERU Online Training courses, which includes a timed mock test and official format questions from the TfL SERU assessment.

By adequately preparing for the test, you maximize your chances of success. Passing the assessment secures your license, saves you time, and reduces expenses.

Where to practice TfL SERU Assessment Tests

 

There are a range of SERU mock tests and SERU mock test packs for you to practice here.

If you have any questions, reach us on Whatsapp via the icon below.

Amongst drivers, there is confusion as to whether the SERU assessment is required for everyone.

In this blog, we will answer the most commonly asked questions.

Do I need to take the SERU assessment if I already sat and passed an English B1 speaking and listening test?

Yes, even if you provided a B1 English certificate for speaking and listening you must sit the SERU assessment.

I have been a PHV driver for 10 years, do I need to sit the SERU assessment?

Yes, all new and existing drivers must pass the SERU assessment, no matter how long they have been licensed for.

I provided my GCSE / college / university certificate, am I exempt?

No. You must still take the SERU assessment. It is mandatory for all drivers regardless of their educational background.

I am British-born / English is my first language, am I exempt?

No. You must still take the SERU assessment.

In conclusion, all PHV drivers must take the SERU assessment at some stage. The deadline for each driver will vary, depending on whether they have already met the English Language Requirement for Speaking & Listening.

You can find your deadline here.

The TfL English Language Requirement (ELR) has undergone changes, and drivers who submitted their evidence (English Certificates) by September 30th, 2021, and received confirmation from TfL that their evidence was accepted will be exempt from the new English Language Speaking and Listening test. However, they will still be required to take the new TfL SERU Test (Learn more about it in our blog post, “What is the SERU test?”). Previously, the TfL English Language Requirement covered all four aspects: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The updated requirement now separates these components. The TfL SERU Test focuses on reading and writing, while the speaking and listening skills are assessed through the new separate test. Private Hire PCO drivers who applied for or renewed their license but either did not provide evidence for the English Language Requirement by the previous deadline of September 20th, 2021, or had their evidence rejected by TfL will need to complete both the SERU test and the English Language Speaking and Listening Test.

What Exactly is the Tfl Speaking & Listening test?

The TfL Speaking and Listening test is a 15-20 minute assessment that covers the following components:

1. Brief conversation: Engage in a short dialogue about personal topics, such as your name and place of origin.

2. Role play: Participate in a simulated social situation to demonstrate your communication skills.

3. Information exchange: Share and discuss information based on provided images.

4. Listening and comprehension: Listen to a short recording and answer related questions.

5. Topic discussion: Express your thoughts and opinions on a given topic.

Where can I take the TfL Speaking and Listening test?

The TfL Speaking and Listening test is conducted at TFL offices but is administered remotely via video link.

How much does the TfL Speaking & Listening test cost?

The TfL Speaking and Listening test carries a fee of £36, and if you need to retake the test, the cost is £16.

What if I fail the TfL Speaking and Listening test?

You have two attempts to pass the TfL Speaking and Listening test. Failing to achieve a passing score will require you to restart your application, causing delays in obtaining your private hire PCO licence.

How can I prepare for the TfL English Language Speaking and Listening Test?

While you can find assistance on the TFL website, it is important to improve your English language skills and gain confidence in speaking before taking the test. Stay tuned for our upcoming online speaking and listening training course, designed to support your preparation.

If you need help passing your Speaking & Listening test, we have tutors fluent in a range of languages including Urdu, Bangla, Pashto, Dari and Somali to help you pass your test.

Just get in touch with us via our Whatsapp Support Desk.

For new Private Hire Driver applications, applicants must pass the SERU as part of the application process before they are granted a license.  

For existing drivers, TfL will send an email and or letter with a request to sit the SERU assessment before their deadline.

There are 3 different deadlines, depending on whether drivers have passed the English Language Requirement for Speaking & Listening (B1 level):

A: Drivers with licenses granted before 30th September 2021 who didn’t submit English Language Requirement evidence:

• Must pass the SERU assessment and Speaking & Listening test before  30th September 2023. 

B: Drivers with license granted before 30th September 2021 who submitted English Language Requirement evidence:

• If ELR evidence was accepted: must pass SERU assessment before 31st March 2025. (Speaking & Listening test is not required). 
  
  
• If ELR evidence was not accepted: must pass SERU assessment and Speaking & Listening tests before 30th March, 2024. 

C: Drivers with applications made or license granted after 1st October 2021 :

• Must pass the SERU assessment and satisfy English Language Requirements before 30th September 2024.

These dates might appear a bit perplexing, but the key point to remember is that every private hire driver in London will eventually be required to complete, at the very least, the SERU assessment. Thus, it is advisable to be prepared when your turn comes.

It is a good idea to prepare for your SERU assessment before you receive your invite e-mail/letter. TfL has given some drivers as little as 1 week’s notice to sit their SERU assessment, which may not be enough time.