SERU stands for Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding. Transport for London (TfL) has introduced an assessment for both new and existing Private Hire Vehicles (PHV) licence holders’ drivers who must take the (SERU) test before they are issued or renew or after renewing their licence called Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU).

It is a new requirement that came into force on 1 October 2021. TfL SERU Assessment Training is computer-based and it is delivered by TFL at their test centres. This assessment will involve multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop questions (completing sentences by adding missing words) and reading and understanding questions.

SERU Assessment is to help ensure public safety and will enhance levels of customer service. 

London PHV drivers must have an appropriate understanding of safety, equality and the regulatory requirements that apply to them.

This includes:

1. Drivers’ obligations under the PHV (London) Act 1998 including the associated regulations and relevant obligations including under the Equality Act 2010;
2. Policies and guidance issued by Transport for London (TfL) or other persons which are relevant to London PHV drivers;
3. The particular needs of passengers that arise because a passenger has (or may have) a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010;
4. Protecting children and adults at risk from harm and abuse;
5. Passenger and driver safety;
6. Road and vehicle safety.
7. Safeguarding Awareness Course Preparation

TfL SERU Update on September 2022:

TFL have extended the time for existing drivers to complete the SERU assessment as outlined in TPH notice 14-22.

In summary, there are 4 main points:

Existing drivers who DID NOT supply English language evidence by 30th September 2021 – Now have until 30th September 2023 to take and pass the English language speaking and listening test and SERU assessment.

Existing drivers who DID supply English language evidence by 30th September 2021 (And it is accepted by TFL) – Now have until 31st March 2025 to take and pass the SERU assessment only. (If the English language evidence is not accepted these drivers will have until 30th September 2024 to take and pass the English language speaking and listening test and SERU assessment.)

Existing drivers who applied for a PHV driver’s licence on or after 1st October 2021 and up to 31st March 2023 – now have until 30th September 2024 to take and pass the English language speaking and listening test and SERU assessment. – (TfL are currently issuing licenses on the successful completion of Topographical assessment.)

New applicants who apply for a PHV licence on or after 1st April 2023 will need to take and pass the English language speaking and listening test and SERU assessment before their licence is issued.

Be Aware: TfL can give you notice at any time for the SERU assessment. Check your e-mails regularly including your spam and trash e-mail folders. You only have 2 attempts at this test, if you fail twice TFL could revoke your licence.