TfL Topographical Skills Assessment

14 April 2023

In order for you to complete this training you will need access to a AZ master atlas, This is a key requirement to answer all the Topographical index questions.

Need access to an AZ atlas?
Topographical library to get access to an AZ and various mock tests to help you prepare for the assessment.

 

After you have submitted your application to TfL you will be invited to complete a topographical skills assessment.

For those of you wondering, topography is the understanding of how maps work. You must pass this test in order to receive your Private Hire Licence.

 You Should take  training which is cover the multiple choice section of the test, and 2nd part,  the route planning of the test.

You have two attempts to take the test

If you fail the second attempt you will need to re-apply for your Private Hire Licence. TfL will give you a partial refund if you paid the full £310. Your medical form may still be valid to use again as this is valid for 1 year. But you will need to complete a new DBS- Enhanced Criminal Record check as this is only valid for 4 months.

You have 1 hour 30 minutes to complete:

25 Multiple choice questions (25%)
2 Short routes & 2 Medium routes (75%)

Route planning is where you will gain the most marks in the test. The test is computer based and TfL will provide you with a copy of the A to Z book to use in the test also.

YOU WILL NEED TO GET AT LEAST 60% ON THE TEST TO PASS!

TfL say it will take 10 working days to receive your results, but sometimes there may be a backlog and you could be waiting a lot longer

TIME MANAGEMENT 

You have 1 hour 30 minutes to complete your test!

We advise you only spend 20 minutes maximum on the multiple choice questions, if you do not know the answer or feel you are spending too much time on a question you can skip it by clicking 'Flag this question' as you can always come back to it at the end of your assessment.

It is best to use the remainder of your time wisely! The route planning will give you the most marks in your test, so you will need the time to complete these carefully and efficiently

To pass the test, you'll need to:

 Use the A-Z's Index pages.
 Know about the different maps of the A-Z.
 Know the compass points and be able to follow directions.
 Plan routes across Greater London.

If you have a Master Atlas of Greater London to hand this will be good to use to follow throughout this training.

If you don't have one there will be videos and photos on YouTube channel “fast track Digital M,

but you will need one to answer all the Topographical index questions. You need to do practice before going to test.