Written by the Sydenham Mini Cabs team. Last updated .
The work you would be doing
Our customers are mostly local people. A typical day includes short runs around Sydenham, Forest Hill, Penge and Catford, hospital appointments, station drops and longer airport jobs.
- Local journeys across the districts on our areas we cover page
- Airport transfers, such as the minicab from Sydenham to Gatwick Airport
- Station runs into central London
- Regular bookings, including the school run taxi
- Account work for local businesses
Every job is pre booked through the office and sent to you by our dispatch system. You never ply for hire.
Shifts and hours
The office runs around the clock, so there is work in the early morning, through the day, in the evening and overnight. Tell us which hours suit you when you apply. Weekend nights and early airport runs are the times we most often need cover.
[Shift patterns and any minimum hours to be confirmed by the business.]
What you need to apply
These are the standard requirements for private hire driving in London, set by Transport for London.
Your licence
You need a current private hire driver licence from Transport for London, often called a PCO licence. To hold one, a driver must be at least 21, have held a full driving licence for at least three years, have the right to work in the UK, and have passed an enhanced criminal record check, a medical, a topographical assessment and the English language and safety assessments.
Your vehicle
If you drive your own car, it must hold a current Transport for London private hire vehicle licence, a valid MOT and insurance for hire and reward. Transport for London also sets emissions rules for vehicles being licensed for the first time, so check the current rules before you buy.
Documents we will ask for
- Private hire driver licence and badge
- DVLA driving licence
- Private hire vehicle licence, MOT and logbook, if using your own car
- Hire and reward insurance certificate
- Proof of address and of your right to work
We check originals before you start and again at each renewal.
Not licensed yet?
You cannot drive for us until Transport for London has issued your licence. Applications are made directly to Transport for London, and the process takes time because of the checks involved. If you are part way through, you are welcome to call us and talk about work once your badge arrives.
Do you need a car?
Many of our drivers own their vehicles. If you do not have a licensed car, tell us when you apply. [State here whether the business can supply or arrange rental vehicles for drivers.]
For larger vehicles, we are always interested in drivers with MPVs, since demand for the 6 seater taxi is strong on airport and group work.
Pay, commission and fees
We will not print figures here that may change. Earnings depend on the hours you work and the jobs you take. How fares are paid, what commission or circuit fee applies and when you are paid will be explained in full before you start.
[Commission or weekly fee, payment schedule and any equipment deposit to be confirmed by the business.]
What we look for in a driver
Licences get you through the door. These things keep customers coming back.
Punctuality matters most, because people are catching flights and trains. Local knowledge helps a great deal, and if you are new to the area, it comes quickly. A clean car, careful driving and patience with older passengers, children and people with luggage are all part of the job. Drivers who are comfortable carrying pets and assistance dogs are especially welcome.
How to apply
Call 020 8778 8888 and ask about driving for us, or email info@sydenhamcars.co.uk with these details.
- Your full name and phone number
- Your private hire driver licence number and expiry date
- Whether you have your own licensed vehicle, and its make and seat count
- The hours you would like to work
- The areas of London you know best
We will call you back and arrange a time to meet at the office and go through your documents. Our address and opening hours are on the contact us page. If you run several vehicles, see the become a partner page.
Driver questions
Do I need a PCO licence before I apply?
Yes. You must hold a current Transport for London private hire driver licence before you can take any work. You can contact us while your application is in progress.
Can I drive part time?
Tell us the hours you want when you apply. We need drivers at different times of day and night, and we will say honestly whether your hours fit.
Do I need my own car?
Most drivers use their own licensed vehicle. If you do not have one, mention it when you apply and we will tell you what options are available.
What area would I be working in?
Mainly Sydenham and the neighbouring parts of south east London, with regular airport and central London journeys.
How do I get paid?
Payment arrangements are explained before you start. Ask us about commission, fees and the payment schedule when we speak.
Is my car suitable?
It must hold a current private hire vehicle licence and be clean and well kept. Tell us the make, model, age and number of seats, and we will let you know.
Do you provide training?
We show new drivers how our dispatch system and office procedures work. Transport for London's own assessments must be completed as part of your licence.