PCO MOT in London: What Drivers Need to Know
A PCO MOT is a standard MOT test for a vehicle licensed, or about to be licensed, as a London private hire vehicle. The test itself is the normal MOT. What makes it different is the timing, because TfL links MOTs to your vehicle licence.
Before you book, work out which of these you need: an MOT, repairs or preparation, or the separate TfL licensing inspection. They are three different things.
MOT, TfL inspection or preparation?
- MOT test: the legal roadworthiness test, carried out at an authorised MOT test centre.
- TfL licensing inspection: a separate inspection arranged through TfL’s official process. An ordinary garage MOT does not replace it.
- Inspection preparation: a garage check or repairs before your TfL inspection. Preparation is not the inspection, and only some garages offer it.
If you need the licensing inspection, use TfL’s private hire vehicle licensing pages. Do not assume that a local MOT garage can book it for you.
When does a PCO vehicle need an MOT?
Your deadline depends on your licence, not just on when your last certificate runs out. London licensed vehicles are normally tested more often than private cars, with one MOT tied to the licensing inspection and another around six months into the licence.
TfL tells private hire operators to keep a copy of each vehicle’s current MOT certificate, and it must be no more than six months old. Check the exact dates for your vehicle on TfL’s website before booking, because an MOT that has not expired may still be outside TfL’s window.
A vehicle less than 12 months old does not need an MOT yet, but it still needs its licensing inspection.
How much does a PCO MOT cost?
The maximum fee for a car with up to 8 passenger seats is £54.85, according to GOV.UK. Garages can charge less, so prices vary. Repairs are charged separately.
Before you book, ask:
- What is the total MOT price?
- Is the car tested the same day, and how long will it take?
- Can I wait, or do I need to leave the car?
- Will you call me before starting any repairs?
- Are you testing the car yourselves, or sending it elsewhere?
What happens if the car fails?
Do not assume a retest is free. Under the GOV.UK rules, it depends on where the car is repaired and when it returns:
- Left at the test centre for repair: a free partial retest if it is retested within 10 working days.
- Taken away and returned by the end of the next working day: no charge for a partial retest on certain listed items, such as mirrors, wheels and tyres.
- Taken away and returned within 10 working days: a partial retest, and you may be charged a partial retest fee.
- Any other case: a full retest at the full MOT fee.
Read the full list on GOV.UK. Your car must also be roadworthy whenever you drive it, even if its old MOT is still valid.
How to choose a garage
The cheapest test is not always the best choice if a failed MOT keeps you off the road. Compare:
- The confirmed price and when it was last checked
- Actual MOT testing hours, not just online booking hours
- Retest terms and whether repairs are done on site
- Whether it works with your vehicle, including electric and hybrid cars
- Early, late or Saturday appointments that fit your shifts
Compare MOT garages in London.
Common questions
Is a PCO MOT different from a normal MOT?
The test is the same kind of MOT. The timing is different, because TfL ties it to your vehicle licence.
Can I book an MOT today?
Only if a garage confirms a slot. A request through PCO Directory is not a confirmed booking, so call the garage if the job is urgent.
Does a garage listing mean it is approved by TfL?
No. A garage listed here is not an authorised TfL inspection centre unless its listing says so.