SERU TfL Test Explained (Guide for London Taxi & Private Hire Drivers)

If you’re a taxi or private hire (PHV) driver, or planning to become one soon, you’ve probably heard a lot of talk about the SERU TfL test. Maybe you’ve even seen drivers chatting about it online or at the ranks, and you’re wondering — what is this test, and why does it matter so much?

You’re in the right place. I’ve been working with London drivers for years, helping them make sense of TfL’s rules, licence renewals, and training requirements. So think of this as your go-to, friendly guide — no complicated language, no technical talk, just honest, easy-to-follow advice.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly what the SERU test is, why it’s important, and what’s changing from 2025 — especially for taxi drivers, who will now need to pass it when applying for or renewing their licence. We’ll also look at what’s inside the test and share practical tips so you can feel confident walking into that exam room.

Let’s dive in. Because understanding the SERU TfL test isn’t just about getting your licence — it’s about being the kind of driver who knows the rules, respects passengers, and keeps London’s roads safe and fair for everyone.

What Is the SERU TfL Test?

Let’s keep it simple. SERU stands for Safety, Equality, and Regulatory Understanding.

The SERU TfL test is a short assessment created by Transport for London (TfL) to make sure every driver — both taxi and private hire (PHV) — understands the key rules that keep everyone safe, treated fairly, and following TfL’s regulations.

In other words, it checks that you know:

• How to keep passengers and yourself safe while working.
• How to treat everyone equally, no matter who they are.
• The main TfL rules that all licensed drivers must follow.

Think of the SERU test as a simple way for TfL to confirm that every licensed driver understands the basics of safety, equality, and regulations before getting or renewing their licence.

So, when someone asks, “What is the SERU test?” — it’s basically a knowledge check to show that you’re a responsible and professional driver who knows the rules of the job.

Who Has to Take the SERU Test?

Good question — and it’s one a lot of drivers are asking right now.

If you’re a private hire (PHV) driver, you probably already know about the SERU test. TfL has made it a requirement for PHV drivers for a while now. That means if you want to get your first PHV licence, renew it, or prove your English language skills, you’ll need to pass the SERU test.

But here’s the big update: starting in 2025, London taxi drivers will also need to take and pass the SERU test. That includes both new applicants and drivers renewing their licence.

So, in short:

• PHV drivers — you already need the SERU test.
• Taxi drivers — from 1 October 2025, you’ll need to pass it too.
• Anyone proving English skills — must complete the SERU test as part of the process.

TfL introduced this rule so that everyone — whether driving a cab or a private hire vehicle — understands the same key rules about safety, equality, and regulations.

It’s not there to make things harder; it’s there to keep London’s roads safer and to make sure every licensed driver knows their responsibilities.

Recent Updates You Should Know

Here are the latest updates for 2025 and beyond:

• SERU now mandatory for taxi drivers from 1 October 2025.
• From this date, all new and renewing taxi drivers must pass the SERU test before getting their licence.
• PHV and taxi tests are separate.
• If you passed the SERU test for PHV, you’ll still need to take the taxi version — there’s no crossover.
• Cost and retests.
• The taxi SERU assessment costs £36 for your first attempt and £16 for a retest if you need one.
• More time for existing drivers.
• If your taxi licence expires on or after 1 October 2025, you’ll need to take the test as part of your renewal. TfL is allowing drivers who apply before their licence expires to keep driving while they finish the SERU — in some cases, you could have up to 12 months after expiry to pass.
• Easy booking and cancellations.
• You can now book, cancel, or reschedule your SERU assessment online through TfL’s website.
• Final deadline for some PHV drivers.
• PHV drivers who hadn’t yet taken the SERU had a final deadline of 31 March 2025 to complete it.

Why TfL Introduced the SERU Assessment

Let’s talk about why TfL decided to bring in the SERU assessment — and why it matters for every driver in London.

1. To Keep Passengers Safe

Safety is TfL’s number one priority. The SERU test helps make sure all licensed drivers understand how to keep passengers safe at all times.

It covers things like what to do in an emergency, how to handle difficult situations, and how to protect both yourself and your passengers.

When everyone knows the right safety steps to take, London’s roads become safer and more trusted for everyone.

2. To Ensure Legal Compliance

The SERU test also checks that drivers understand the laws and TfL regulations they must follow.

This includes equality and anti-discrimination laws, passenger rights, and the key TfL rules for holding a taxi or private hire licence.

Knowing the law protects both you and your passengers — it helps prevent mistakes that could lead to fines, licence issues, or misunderstandings.

3. To Keep Standards Consistent

Before the SERU test, not every driver was tested on the same topics. TfL wanted to fix that.

Now, every driver — whether taxi or PHV — must meet the same standard of knowledge about safety, equality, and regulations.

This creates a fair system where all drivers work to the same level of professionalism and understanding.

What Topics Are Covered in the SERU Test?

Don’t worry — the SERU test isn’t as scary as it sounds. It’s not designed to trick you; it’s there to make sure you understand the most important parts of being a safe, fair, and responsible driver in London.

Let’s go through the main topics it covers, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Safety and Safeguarding

This part is all about keeping passengers safe — especially those who might be at risk.

You’ll need to know:

• What to do in an emergency situation (like an accident or if someone becomes ill).
• How to protect vulnerable passengers, such as children, elderly people, or anyone who might need extra support.
• How to spot signs of abuse or danger and report them correctly.

Safeguarding is a big deal because you’re not just a driver — you’re also someone who passengers trust to get them home safely.

2. Equality and Anti-Discrimination

This section makes sure you understand how to treat every passenger with respect.

You’ll learn about the Equality Act 2010 — the law that protects people from discrimination.

It includes topics like:

• Helping passengers with disabilities (for example, wheelchair users or those with guide dogs).
• Treating everyone fairly, no matter their background, gender, religion, or appearance.
• Understanding what counts as discrimination and how to avoid it.

Remember, London is one of the most diverse cities in the world — the SERU test helps ensure every passenger feels welcome and respected.

3. TfL Taxi and PHV Regulations

This part checks that you understand the rules TfL sets for drivers.

It covers things like:

• What’s required to get and keep your licence.
• The vehicle standards you must meet.
• How to report incidents or complaints properly.
• The penalties for breaking the rules.

Knowing these regulations protects your licence and helps you stay fully compliant with TfL’s standards.

4. Driver Conduct and Responsibilities

This section focuses on how you should behave as a professional driver.

You’ll be tested on:

• How to act professionally with passengers and TfL staff.
• When and how to refuse a job (for example, if it’s unsafe or unreasonable).
• The importance of honesty, politeness, and good communication.

Good conduct isn’t just about following the rules — it’s about giving passengers a positive experience that makes them feel safe and valued.

5. Handling Emergencies

TfL wants to know that you’d stay calm and take the right action in an emergency.

This includes:

• What to do if your vehicle breaks down.
• How to respond to a medical emergency.
• Who to contact if you or your passenger are in danger.

These are straightforward, real-life situations — no trick questions here. TfL just wants to be sure you can handle them responsibly.

6. Lost Property

This one’s simple but important. If a passenger leaves something behind — like a phone, bag, or wallet — you need to know what to do.

You’ll be tested on:

• How to record and report lost property.
• Who to hand it over to (depending on whether you’re a taxi or PHV driver).
• It’s all about being honest and professional, and doing the right thing.

7. Supporting Vulnerable Passengers

Finally, there’s a section focused on passengers who may need extra help or understanding.

That might include people with disabilities, elderly passengers, or those who don’t speak much English.

You’ll learn how to:

• Communicate clearly and kindly.
• Offer assistance respectfully (without overstepping).
• Recognise when someone may need extra care or patience.

This section really highlights the human side of being a driver — treating people with empathy and respect.

What Is the Format of the SERU Test?

Here’s what the SERU test looks like in practice — simple, clear, and nothing to stress about once you know what to expect:

• The test is computer-based and taken at an official TfL assessment centre. The system is easy to use, and you’ll get clear instructions before you start.
• There are about 40 questions in total. Most are multiple-choice, while a few may ask you to type short answers — just a word or phrase.
• You’ll have around 45 to 60 minutes to complete the test, which is plenty of time if you stay calm and read each question carefully.
• The pass mark is roughly 60%, so you don’t need to be perfect — just confident in the key areas.
• You can’t use any notes or books during the test, so it’s important to prepare properly.
• Questions are based on the TfL Driver’s Handbook, covering things like safety, equality, TfL rules, emergencies, driver conduct, and lost property.

If this sounds like a lot, don’t worry — with the right preparation, you’ll be ready in no time.

A great way to build your confidence is to practice with real-style questions before your assessment. The TfL SERU Assessment Preparation Exam by Training Tale is designed exactly for that. It helps you understand the format, test your knowledge, and get comfortable with the kind of questions you’ll see on the day.

It’s a simple, flexible way to prepare — and it could make all the difference between feeling nervous and walking in fully ready to pass.

Platforms That Offer SERU TfL Courses

If you’re ready to start preparing for your SERU TfL test, the good news is — there are plenty of great training options out there. Whether you prefer learning online at your own pace or sitting in a classroom with an instructor, there’s a course that’ll fit your style and schedule.

Here’s a quick guide to some well-reviewed and trusted SERU training providers you can look into.

TfL SERU (Official-Style Online Course)

This is one of the most popular online platforms built specifically for the SERU assessment. It offers full coverage of every topic in the TfL Driver’s Handbook, plus practice quizzes and realistic mock tests. Great for anyone who wants to study from home at their own pace.

Russbridge Academy

They offer an intensive 1-day course that combines SERU prep with English support and mock exams — ideal if you’re short on time.

How to Prepare and Study for the SERU TfL Test

Preparing for the SERU TfL test doesn’t have to be stressful — it’s all about studying smart, not just hard. With the right resources and a bit of consistent effort, you can feel calm and confident on test day. Here’s how to do it the easy way.

1. Start with the Official TfL Driver’s Handbook

This is your main study guide — everything in the test comes from here.

Read it carefully, a few pages at a time, and make notes as you go. Focus on:

• Safety and safeguarding
• Equality and anti-discrimination laws
• TfL’s taxi and private hire rules
• Driver responsibilities and conduct

Don’t just memorise — try to understand what each rule means in real life. That way, even if a question is worded differently, you’ll still know the right answer.

2. Take Practice and Mock Tests

Once you’ve gone through the handbook, start practising with mock tests. They help you get used to the question style and the time limit.

Try doing a few timed mock tests — this builds your speed and helps you learn to stay calm under pressure.

Platforms like Training Tale’s SERU Preparation Exam are really useful here because they show you what the real test feels like and help you focus on your weak spots.

3. Focus on Real-World Scenarios

A lot of SERU questions are based on everyday driving situations. Focus on topics like:

• Helping vulnerable passengers (children, elderly people, passengers with disabilities)
• Handling lost property
• Dealing with emergencies
• Knowing your legal duties and rights as a driver

Think about what you’d actually do in those moments. The test rewards common sense and awareness, not just memorisation.

4. Keep Up with the Latest TfL Updates

Rules can change — especially with the 2025 SERU updates for taxi drivers. Make sure you check the TfL website for the most recent guidance before your test.

That way, you’re studying the latest version of the handbook and not outdated material.

5. Build a Study Routine

You don’t need to study for hours every day. Just 30–45 minutes a few times a week is enough if you stay consistent.

Break your study into small chunks:

• Day 1: Safety and safeguarding
• Day 2: Equality and conduct
• Day 3: TfL rules and regulations
• Day 4: Practice test

Before you know it, you’ll have covered everything.

6. Stay Calm and Confident

Finally, don’t overthink it. The SERU test is designed to check your understanding, not catch you out.

If you’ve read the handbook, practised mock questions, and know the main rules, you’re ready.

What Happens If You Fail the SERU Test?

Let’s be honest — not everyone passes the SERU test the first time, and that’s completely okay. The good news is, you can retake it, and TfL gives you another chance to pass before it affects your licence.

Here’s how it works. If you fail the SERU test, TfL will let you book a retake. You’ll need to wait until they invite you again, and there will usually be a small resit fee (currently around £16 for taxi drivers and similar for PHV drivers).

During this time, it’s a good idea to go back over your TfL Driver’s Handbook and spend some time practising mock questions, especially in the areas you found tricky.

If you’re a new applicant, TfL won’t approve your licence until you’ve passed the SERU test. If you’re renewing your licence, the renewal process may be delayed or paused until you pass. In some cases, TfL might let you keep driving for a short time (if you applied before your licence expired), but you must still pass the test within a set deadline.

So, don’t panic if you don’t pass the first time — it happens. The key is to learn from your first attempt, take your time to prepare properly, and go in confident for the retake. Most drivers who study carefully and practise a few mock tests pass on their second try.

Tips to Pass the SERU Test on Your First Try

• Read every question carefully — pay attention to words like must, should, and may.
• Eliminate wrong answers first to narrow down your choices.
• Practise timed mock tests to get used to the pace and pressure.
• Revise equality and safeguarding topics — they always come up.
• Take TfL’s safeguarding module for extra confidence and understanding.
• Stay calm and use common sense — most questions are practical, not tricky.
• Review your answers before submitting if you have time left.

Where to Find Official SERU Test Materials

• TfL Website – Visit the official Transport for London website for the latest SERU guidance, updates, and rules for taxi and PHV drivers.
• TfL Driver’s Handbook (PDF) – This is the main study resource; all test questions come from it. You can download it directly from the TfL site — just search for “TfL SERU Driver’s Handbook PDF.”
• TfL-Approved Training Providers – Enrol with recognised SERU course providers who use official materials and mock tests that follow TfL’s format.
• Driver Forums & Groups – Join London taxi and PHV driver communities (like Facebook groups or forums) to get honest tips, share experiences, and stay updated on what other drivers found useful.

All your key SERU study resources start with TfL’s own materials — everything else should simply help you understand, practise, and feel confident before test day.

SERU TfL Test – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the SERU test TfL?
It’s a short assessment by Transport for London (TfL) that checks drivers understand safety, equality, and regulatory rules for taxi and PHV licensing.

2. What is the meaning of SERU in TfL?
SERU stands for Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding.

3. What does SERU stand for?
Safety, Equality, and Regulatory Understanding — the key areas TfL tests every driver on.

4. How is a SERU test performed?
It’s a computer-based test with around 40 multiple-choice and short-answer questions taken at a TfL assessment centre.

5. How to pass the SERU test TfL?
Study the TfL Driver’s Handbook, take timed mock tests, and practise questions from trusted platforms like the Training Tale SERU Preparation Exam.

6. What happens if I don’t pass the SERU exam?
You can retake it. TfL will delay your application or renewal until you pass.

7. Is the SERU test difficult?
Not if you study properly. The questions are straightforward and based on real-life driving and passenger situations.

8. How should I prepare for a SERU test?
Read the TfL Driver’s Handbook, do mock tests, focus on safety and equality topics, and review recent TfL updates.

9. What is the pass mark for SERU?
You need around 60% to pass.

10. How many times can I retake SERU?
You can retake it as needed, but each attempt requires a new booking and fee.

11. Where is the hardest to pass a driving test in the UK?
It varies — typically busy London test centres have lower pass rates, but this doesn’t apply directly to SERU.

12. How long do SERU results take?
Results are usually available within a few weeks of completing the test.

Final Thoughts: Why the SERU Test Matters

At the end of the day, the SERU test isn’t just another requirement from TfL — it’s a sign of your professionalism, responsibility, and care as a London driver.

Passing the SERU test proves that you understand what really matters on the road: safety, fairness, and compliance. It shows passengers that they’re in good hands — that their driver knows the rules, respects everyone equally, and takes pride in doing the job right.

For taxi and PHV drivers, that knowledge doesn’t just help you pass an exam — it builds trust, opens up more opportunities, and sets you apart as a true professional.

And if you’re ready to take your preparation seriously, there’s a great resource that makes it easy to get started. The “All About TfL Online Assessment (SERU)” guide by Training Tale walks you through everything — from what’s in the test to how to practise effectively and avoid common mistakes. It’s written in plain English and helps you prepare with confidence.

So, take the time to learn, practise, and understand the SERU material properly. It’s not just about getting your licence — it’s about becoming a safer, smarter, and more trusted driver in London.