Drivers with Disabilities

If you have a disability and want to become a private hire driver with a PCO Licence then the Equality Act 2010 ensures that you are treated equally but of course there are a few things for you to consider.

Everyone, no matter whether they have a disability of not has an equal opportunity to get through the PCO licence application and assessment process but of course the customers are the number one priority and in those instances there may be some medical conditions which may prevent you from getting licensed. These are outlined in the DVLA Group 2 medical standards and as with all applicants you will have to undergo a medical examination with a GP who will ask you questions around the topics of cardiovascular,endocrine system, musculoskeletal, neurological, psychiatric, and vision.

If you have any of the following conditions then you will probably not be licensed:

  • Epilepsy
  • Insulin treated/insulin dependent diabetes
  • Monocular or poor vision
  • Neurological or neurosurgical disorders (.e.g strokes, blackouts, head injuries)
  • A progressive degenerative illness
  • A history of alcohol or drug abuse
  • A history of mental illness or severe mental handicap
  • A physical disability which might impair the ability to discharge the requirements of a vocational driver
  • Heart problems
  • Certain prescribed medications.

If your answers and results satisfy the doctor that you fulfill the Group 2 medical criteria then then will be happy to sign-off on your application form.

Vehicle Modifications

As a disabled driver some licensed taxis and private hire vehicles have modifications made to them such as hand operated controls and reconfigured foot pedals which to enable people to drive them.

If you do need to use a vehicle with adaptions then the first step is that is to meet a medical professional and driver assessor who will recommend what adaptations are needed, and then these need to be fitted by an authorised motability installer who will give you the required documentation for this. Before carrying out the installations you would first contact the licensing team.