Topographical Tests
Note: The test centre is not suitable for visitors with impaired mobility.
Abba Dart has carried out hundreds of topographical tests with high pass rates. We also offer evening and weekend testing for your convenience. If you join Abba dart as a driver we will refund your test fee against your 2nd weeks rent.
Booking your Topographical Test
We run tutoring classes and topographical Tests every Week. If you would like to book a topography test please use our contact us form.
About our Topographical Tests
As of 1 April 2006 Abba Dart became accredited as a Topographical test centre.
The assessment is required as part of the PCO Private Hire licensing requirements for applications made after 1st April 2006.
The assessment is broken down into the following:
- 20 - 60 minute consult and teaching establishing current knowledge then teaching and demonstrating skills accordingly.
- 1 hour 40 minute 4 module route planning and geographic awareness test in silence but with assistance if required to explain and provide guidance as an aid to understanding the test so the candidate can demonstrate the skills required. Candidate uses provided stationary and maps in this part of the assessment.
- 20 minute final module without maps.
- a marking period after which results are given and a Pass certificate or invitation to a half price re - test is given.
Candidates assessments will be tailored to their intended are of work to give them skills that they would need to demonstrate once they start work a a private hire driver.
We advise candidates to invest in an A-Z MASTER ATLAS OF LONDON and become familiar with using it and navigating through the pages.
To find out more details and book simply call Prav on 07919 894 806 or 020 8300 1982.
Section 13(3) of the Private Hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998 requires an applicant for a London PHV driver’s licence to show that they possess a level:
- of knowledge of London or parts of London; and
- of general topographical skills which appears to him to be appropriate.
The Secretary of State may impose different requirements in relation to different applicants.
The Licensing Authority is willing to grant exemption to any applicant who is able to demonstrate that they satisfy one or more of the exempted categories specified below:
| Exemption Categories | Exemption Criteria |
|---|---|
| Licensed London Private Hire Vehicle drivers. | Any London Private Hire driver first licensed prior to 1st April 2006. |
| London Private Hire Vehicle driver applicants. | Any London Private Hire driver applicant who has applied and been issued with a temporary permit, prior to 1st April 2006 and who is awaiting a final decision about their application. |
| Licensed London Taxi drivers (All London and Suburban). | Those already working as “black cab” drivers, having successfully completed the Knowledge of London administered by the PCO. |
| Professional London Tourist Guide. | A driver registered as a professional tourist guide with an established Tourist Guide association (e.g. APTG, Blue Badge Driver Guide (BBDG)). |
| A person who can provide the PCO with evidence of a recognised and relevant vocational qualification (NVQ or equivalent). | S/NVQ (Scottish equivalent) Road Passenger Transport at Level Two – for taxi, private hire and chauffeurs. Edexcel Level Two BTEC Certificate in Transporting Passengers by Taxi and Private Hire. |
