TfL warn private hire vehicle drivers over fake fast-track licence services as delays continue
- Perry Richardson
- May 30
- 1 min read
Transport for London (TfL) has issued a warning to all private hire drivers after reports of third-party websites fraudulently offering fast-track licensing services for a fee.
In a recent industry update sent to licensed drivers, TfL confirmed that no such service exists and any additional charges beyond the official application cost should be treated as fraudulent.
Applicants are reminded that the only fee they will be asked to pay is the standard cost of the licence application. TfL does not provide a fast-track option under any circumstances. Drivers who are approached by websites or individuals claiming otherwise are urged to report the matter to TfL’s Taxi and Private Hire team.
This warning comes as many new applicants face delays in obtaining a private hire licence. These delays have led to growing frustration among drivers applying and renewing their licenses in the capital. The extended waiting times may lead some to seek out alternative routes to speed up the process, making them vulnerable to fraud.
TfL has reiterated that it does not partner with any third-party services for application processing. All licence applications must go through TfL’s official channels.
The TfL update read: “Applicants for a private hire driver's licence will only ever be asked to pay the cost of an application. We do not offer a fast-track service and will never charge more than the advertised application costs.
“If you have ever been approached by a third party offering a fast-track service at additional costs, this is a fraudulent operation. You should report it to us at tphreport@tfl.gov.uk.”
