About the SERU TfL Mock Test
~7 min read · Updated April 2026
The TfL SERU assessment is mandatory for every new London private hire driver since October 2021. It's a 1-hour, 60-question multiple-choice test taken at a TfL-approved centre and you must pass it before TfL will issue your PHV licence.
The pass mark is 36 out of 60 (60%). Roughly 40% of candidates fail their first attempt, almost always on the safeguarding and equality sections. This guide covers every syllabus area and the most efficient way to prepare.
Format and pass mark
60 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes at a TfL-approved centre. Pass mark 36/60. Fee around £36 each attempt. Up to three attempts in any 18-month period before TfL pause your application.
Questions are scenario-based: 'A passenger asks you to do X — what do you do?' The right answer is almost always the safest, most legally compliant and most respectful option. Common-sense alone won't get you 60% — you need to know the specific TfL rules.
The 10 syllabus areas
(1) Driver behaviour and conduct. (2) Driving standards. (3) Vehicle safety, security and roadworthiness. (4) Passenger safety, including disabilities and assistance dogs. (5) Equality. (6) Safeguarding. (7) Legislative requirements (Equality Act 2010, Children Act 1989). (8) Notifying TfL of changes. (9) Insurance, MOT, hire and reward. (10) Routes and London geography basics.
Safeguarding and equality usually account for 15+ of the 60 questions. Drill these areas hardest.
Safeguarding — the make-or-break section
Know the categories of abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, neglect, financial, modern slavery, child sexual exploitation, domestic abuse). Know the four Rs: Recognise, Respond, Report, Record.
If you suspect a child or vulnerable adult is at immediate risk, call 999. For non-immediate concerns, report to the local council safeguarding team and notify TfL. Never investigate yourself, never confront the suspected abuser, never promise confidentiality to the victim.
Equality and assistance dogs
You must accept assistance dogs at no extra charge. Refusal is a criminal offence under the Equality Act 2010 unless you have a TfL-issued medical exemption certificate (and the certificate must be displayed in your vehicle).
You must accept passengers in wheelchairs at no extra charge if your vehicle is wheelchair accessible. You may not charge extra for assistance, loading time, or for guide-dog passengers.
How to study
Read the official TfL Private Hire Driver's Handbook (free PDF on tfl.gov.uk) cover to cover. Then drill the SERU mocks on UK Test Hub for two to three weeks. After every wrong answer, find the rule in the handbook.
Most failed candidates skip the handbook and go straight to mocks. Don't — the handbook contains specific phrases TfL test on.
Booking and on the day
Book through your TfL applicant portal. Bring photo ID (passport or driving licence). Arrive 15 minutes early. No phones, no notes, no bags in the test room.
Result is on screen at the end. Pass certificates go straight to TfL automatically — you don't need to send anything in.
Ready to start?
You've read the guide — now put it into practice. 45 of 45 mock papers ready, each with 24 questions and full explanations.
Start SERU TfL Mock Test