📝 Step 1: Apply for a Private Hire Driver Licence (PHV Licence)

To work as a chauffeur, you need a Private Hire Driver Licence (PHV Licence) from your local council. If you’re in London, apply through Transport for London (TfL) for a PCO Licence.

Requirements for a Private Hire Licence:

✔️ Full UK Driving Licence (held for at least 12 months)
✔️ Enhanced DBS Check (criminal background check)
✔️ Medical Examination (to ensure you are fit to drive)
✔️ Topographical Skills Test (map-reading & navigation)
✔️ English Language Test (for some councils, including TfL)
✔️ Knowledge of Local Routes & Road Safety

📌 London Chauffeurs must apply for a TfL Private Hire Licence (PCO Licence) at TfL’s Website.

🚖 Once you have your PHV Licence, you can legally work as a chauffeur in the UK!

Steps to Get Your PHV/PCO Licence:

1. 1. Apply to Your Local Licensing Authority:

   • In London, apply through Transport for London (TfL).

   • Outside London, apply through your local council.

2. 2. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Check:

   • Complete an enhanced criminal background check (DBS) to ensure passenger safety.

3. 3. Medical Examination:

   • Pass a Group 2 Medical Test, similar to what HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers undergo.

4. 4. Topographical Skills Test:

   • In London, you must pass a map reading & route planning test.

   • Outside London, it may vary depending on the council.

5. 5. English Language Test:

   • In London, proof of English language proficiency is mandatory.

🚘 Step 2: Gain Chauffeur Experience & Training

While a PHV Licence allows you to work, professional chauffeurs go beyond regular private hire drivers.

Recommended Chauffeur Training & Skills:

✔️ Defensive Driving & Advanced Driving Skills (RoSPA, IAM RoadSmart courses)
✔️ Customer Service & Professional Etiquette (handling VIPs, executives, and high-profile clients)
✔️ Luxury Vehicle Handling (driving high-end cars smoothly & efficiently)
✔️ First Aid Training (optional but useful for corporate & VIP clients)
✔️ Confidentiality & Discretion (essential for high-net-worth clients)

📌 Consider joining a chauffeur training course for professional skills and industry certification.

While a standard PHV licence allows you to operate, professional chauffeur services require higher standards. Consider completing a chauffeur training course to improve skills such as:

• Advanced Driving Techniques – Smooth driving, safety, and precision.

• Customer Service & Etiquette – How to provide VIP-level service.

• Vehicle Care & Maintenance – Keeping luxury cars clean and well-maintained.

• Confidentiality & Discretion – Working with high-profile clients.

Recommended Chauffeur Training Providers:

• IAM RoadSmart – Advanced driving courses.

• RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) – Defensive driving.

• British Chauffeurs Guild – Professional chauffeur courses.

🚖 Training will set you apart from regular drivers and increase your earning potential!

🚗 Step 3: Get the Right Vehicle (If Self-Employed)

If you want to work as a self-employed chauffeur, you need a luxury vehicle that meets chauffeur standards. Many chauffeur companies provide vehicles, but if you’re buying or leasing your own, choose a:

✔️ Mercedes E-Class, S-Class, or V-Class – Most popular chauffeur cars
✔️ Mercedes V-Class (MPV) – Ideal for groups or VIP events.
✔️ BMW 7 Series or Audi A8 – Executive & corporate transport
✔️ Range Rover Autobiography – VIP & luxury travel – Luxury SUV for long-distance trips.
✔️ Bentley Flying Spur or Rolls-Royce Phantom – High-end chauffeur clients – Top choice for VIP and special occasions.

📌 Ensure your vehicle is fully insured for private hire use and meets your council’s vehicle requirements.

🚘 A clean, well-maintained, and luxury car is essential for a successful chauffeur career!

💡 Tip: Some companies provide a vehicle, but owning a high-end car could offer better earnings as a self-employed chauffeur.

💼 Step 4: Find Chauffeur Work

Once you are licensed and have a suitable vehicle, you can start working as a freelance chauffeur, join a company, or set up your own business.

Where to Find Chauffeur Jobs?

✔️ Luxury Chauffeur Companies – Apply to firms like Addison Lee, Tristar, iChauffeur, or Blacklane.
✔️ Private Hire Apps & Platforms – Uber Executive, Bolt Chauffeur, Wheely.
✔️ Corporate & Business Clients – Network with hotels, finance firms, and event organizers.
✔️ Self-Employed Chauffeur Business – Build your brand and attract high-net-worth clients.

📌 For self-employed chauffeurs, setting up a professional website, social media presence, and Google Business profile will help attract clients.

🚖 Start working with high-end clients and luxury travel services to grow your chauffeur career!

💰 Step 5: Get Insured & Register Your Chauffeur Business (If Self-Employed)

If you’re working as a self-employed chauffeur, you must:

✔️ Get Private Hire Chauffeur Insurance – Protects you and your passengers.
✔️ Register Your Business with HMRC – As a sole trader or limited company.
✔️ Apply for Public Liability Insurance – Required for corporate and VIP contracts.

As a chauffeur, you must have the correct insurance to operate legally. This includes:

• Private Hire Insurance – Covers passengers and third-party liabilities.

• Comprehensive Chauffeur Insurance – Protects the driver, vehicle, and clients.

• Public Liability Insurance – Covers claims from passengers or the public.

📌 Insurance costs vary based on your vehicle, experience, and location.

🚘 Protect yourself legally and financially before starting your business!

💡 Tip: Use specialist insurers like Towergate or Adrian Flux for chauffeur policies.