Category: SERU Practice

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.