TfL announces planned updates to licensing and assessment fees for 2026

Transport for London (TfL) has officially announced the first scheduled update to licensing and assessment fees since 2017.
Mar 19 / www.seru.co.uk

TfL announces planned updates to licensing and assessment fees for 2026

Transport for London (TfL) has officially announced the first scheduled update to licensing and assessment fees since 2017. According to TPH Notice 05/26, these changes are being rolled out in two stages throughout the year.

For London’s private hire and taxi drivers, these planned adjustments mean that the cost of assessments and licence applications is moving to a new structure. Below is everything you need to know to stay ahead and manage your costs effectively.

Key Dates for Your Diary

  • 9 March 2026: New rates for driver assessments (including SERU and Topographical) took effect.
  • 1 June 2026: New rates for PHV and Taxi driver licence applications and grants will take effect.

Understanding the New Assessment Fees

One of the key parts of the planned update is the adjustment to assessment fees. It is important to note the new rates for both first attempts and resits.

Assessment Type First Attempt Resit Fee
SERU Assessment £40
(was £36)
£30
(was £16)
Topographical Skills £40
(was £36)
£30
(was £16)
English Language (S&L) £40
(was £36)
£30
(was £16)

PHV Driver Licences (Effective from 1 June 2026)

The planned changes also apply to the actual licence application process:

  • PHV Licence Application Fee: Moving from £124 to £142.
  • PHV Licence Grant Fee: Moving from £186 to £212.
  • Total Licensing Cost: Now £354 (previously £310).

What This Means for Your Preparation

With the resit fee moving to £30, the value of passing on your first attempt has increased. These planned changes highlight the importance of being fully prepared before heading to your assessment centre.

By ensuring you are ready the first time, you not only save on the new fee structure but also avoid the extra time and stress associated with rebooking.

How to Prepare Effectively

At seru.co.uk, we have updated our platform to reflect the 2026 standards. To help you pass the first time and avoid unnecessary resit costs, we provide:

  • 1,600+ Questions: Practice with the official format used by TfL.
  • Unlimited Mock Tests: Test your knowledge until you are fully confident.
  • Mobile-Friendly Learning: Study whenever you have a spare moment.

The Bottom Line: These planned changes are now part of the licensing landscape in London. The most effective way to manage these costs is to prepare thoroughly and aim for a first-time pass.