Driver FAQs

• Will I be self-employed?

FC Transports only engages self-employed sub-contracting with licensed PCO drivers.   For good order with our TFL licence, we expect you to be registered with the HMRC and will need your Unique Tax Reference number, to show that you are “fit and proper”. If you don’t have an accountant, we have negotiated preferential rates from the industry specialist accountant Drivertax.

• Do I need experience?

You do not necessarily need experience of driving a private hire vehicle.   If you are enthusiastic, reliable, have a good knowledge of South East London, licensed PCO driver.   You also need to be able to read, write and speak good English, you are welcome to apply to become a Self-Employed, Driver /Subcontractor.

You will need a Transport for London private hire licence (formerly known as a PCO License) to accept jobs from FC Transports.

• What training will I receive?

(a) FC Transports can give you access to a private hire training team who will assist you to have the knowledge and all that you will need for your license.
(b) All drivers have the opportunity to take an NVQ level 2 award in Road Passenger Vehicle Driving.   You will be fully assisted by our Driver Liaison team.

• How much will I earn?

You are the key to your own success.   You work when you want, but remember the more journeys you complete, the more money you will earn.

• Will I be paid cash for every journey?

There are three types of booking:

• Priority Service for Account-based Bookings.  For these we will take payment directly from the client, on your behalf.   You will then be paid weekly in arrears.    Account work will be credited against your Weekly Charges and any excess credit will be paid directly into your bank account.
• Secondly, there are cash bookings.  For these journeys, the passenger will pay you your money directly, in cash, when you have completed the journey. These jobs help top up your cash flow.
• And finally – Credit/Debit Card Bookings, customers can  pay through over the phone using their  Credit/Debit card, any transaction will show on the drivers Account Credit Sheet, as a self-employed driver you can obtain a credit card terminal which can be linked directly to your bank account.

• Do I pay for my own fuel?

Yes, it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that his/her vehicle always contains enough fuel to complete each journey.
Remember this cost is an expense that is wholly claimable in your tax return.

• Will I have satellite navigation in my car?

No, it is the drivers responsibility to supply your own equipment, such as Sat Nav or A to Z of London and any other Maps. Maps are available through our App on Android.

• What do I need to become a driver?

Before accepting bookings from FC Transports, you will need to provide us with your…

• Your driving licence,
• Your PCO licence (Paper & Badge),
• Your National Insurance Card or Proof of National Insurance,
• A UTR (Unique Tax Reference number),
• A passport size Photo and Proof of Address – ie. Bank Statement, Utility Bills clearly showing your current address.

• When can I start?

Please call our driver onboarding team on 020 8699 9184 to discuss how to get started.

• How much will I pay FC Transports?

FC Transports will charge a standard weekly charge.   These rates are normally adjusted every two to three years.   For more information please visit www.firstchoiceforyou.com or call 020 8699 9184.  From time to time ‘discount incentives’ become available which can be discussed in full with our Driver Recruitment Team.

• Where can I signup?

Simply visit our Driver Sign-up page. We will then process the application and confirm an appointment.

PLEASE NOTE: DOCUMENTS / ITEMS NEEDED TO BE BROUGHT WHEN ATTENDING THE FIRST CONSULTATION.

1. TFL Private Hire Licence (Paper & Badge);
2. Full UK Driver’s Licence;
3. National Insurance Card, or other valid proof;
4. Proof of Address (not older than 4 months);
5. Passport Size Photo;
6. UTR (Unique Tax Reference);
7. Android Mobile Phone (Android 4.5 or higher);
8. For more information about joining our drive partner scheme, talk to a member of our Driver Recruitment Team on 020 8699 9184.