How to Generate a Tax Check Code for Your PCO Driver Licence: Step-by-Step Guide with Links

10 October 2024

If you're applying for or renewing your PCO (Public Carriage Office) driver licence, one of the mandatory steps is generating a Tax Check code. This code is required by Transport for London (TfL) to confirm that you are tax-compliant. In this guide, I’ll show you how to generate your Tax Check code step by step, including links to make the process easier.

What is a Tax Check Code?

A Tax Check code is a unique identifier issued by HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs), proving that you are registered for tax and are up to date with your tax obligations. From April 2022, it became a legal requirement for anyone renewing a PCO driver licence to provide this code to TfL.

This guide is essential for drivers working with:

Taxi services (such as black cab drivers)

Private hire vehicles (PHV) including drivers for Uber, Bolt, and other similar platforms

Without this code, your application for a PCO driver licence will not proceed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Generating a Tax Check Code

Step 1: Create or Log in to Your HMRC Online Account

Before generating your Tax Check code, you'll need access to your HMRC online account. Follow these steps to create or log in to your account:

Go to the HMRC online services page: HMRC login or registration.

Register for a Government Gateway account if you don't already have one. You’ll need:

Your National Insurance number

Personal details (such as date of birth and address)

Once registered, log in to your HMRC account using your Government Gateway user ID and password.

If you already have an account, you can simply log in and proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Check Your Tax Status

Before you can generate a Tax Check code, you need to ensure you're compliant with your tax obligations. This means you should be registered as self-employed or as an employee under PAYE and have filed your taxes correctly. To check your status:

Log in to your HMRC account: HMRC login.

Ensure that you have filed any relevant Self-Assessment tax returns or that your PAYE details are correct.

If there are any outstanding tax returns or payments, you will need to resolve these before you can generate the code.

Step 3: Access the Tax Check Section

After ensuring your tax details are up to date, you can now generate your Tax Check code:

Go to the Tax Check page: Tax Check for licence renewals.

Log in to your HMRC account if prompted.

Look for the option to complete a tax check for a taxi or private hire driver licence. This is typically found in the section related to self-employment or licence renewals.

Step 4: Complete the Tax Check

HMRC will now ask for some key details to confirm your tax status:

Your National Insurance number

Your Self Assessment Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), if you're registered for Self Assessment

Confirmation that your tax returns are up to date

Follow the on-screen prompts and ensure that the information you provide is accurate.

Step 5: Receive Your Tax Check Code

Once the Tax Check process is complete:

HMRC will generate your Tax Check code instantly if all details are correct.

The code will be displayed on your screen and sent to your registered email address.

Save or write down the code somewhere safe, as you will need it for your PCO driver licence application.

The code is valid for a limited time, so be sure to use it promptly in your licence renewal process.

Step 6: Submit the Tax Check Code to Transport for London (TfL)

The final step is to submit your Tax Check code to TfL as part of your PCO driver licence application or renewal. Follow these steps:

Visit TfL’s licensing page: PCO Licence Application.

Start or continue your PCO driver licence application.

When prompted, enter your Tax Check code in the relevant section of the form.

Once TfL has received your Tax Check code and verified it, your application will continue to be processed.

Important Tips for Generating Your Tax Check Code

Tax Compliance is Key: Ensure that you are up to date with all tax filings before attempting to generate a Tax Check code. If you're behind, HMRC won't issue a code, and your PCO licence application will be delayed.

Keep Your Code Safe: Once you receive the code, save it securely as you will need it for your PCO licence renewal.

Act Quickly: Tax Check codes are valid for a limited time. Don’t delay in submitting your PCO licence renewal once you’ve generated the code.

Why Do You Need a Tax Check Code for Your PCO Driver Licence?

Since April 2022, HMRC has made it mandatory for individuals renewing their PCO driver licences to provide a Tax Check code. This ensures that all licensed drivers are meeting their tax obligations. TfL won’t process your application without this code, which means you won’t be able to continue working as a taxi or PHV driver if you don’t provide it.

Conclusion

Generating a Tax Check code for your PCO driver licence is a crucial step in staying compliant with UK tax regulations. By following this step-by-step guide, you can complete the process smoothly and avoid delays in your licence renewal.

If you have any issues with generating the code or your tax status, always refer to HMRC or TfL for assistance. Completing your Tax Check on time ensures that you can continue driving legally and stay up to date with both your tax and licence obligations.

Additional Requirements for Your PCO Licence Application

When applying for or renewing your PCO driver licence, in addition to the Tax Check code, you must also meet the following requirements:

Topographical Test: This is a map reading test designed to assess your ability to navigate London’s streets and routes effectively.

SERU Test: The Safety Equality, and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) test evaluates your knowledge of the legal and safety requirements of being a licensed driver in London.

Enhanced DBS Check: An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required to verify your criminal record.

Medical Examination: You must provide a medical certificate demonstrating that you are physically fit to drive.

Make sure you complete all these requirements to ensure a smooth application process for your PCO licence.