In order to drive on the Uber app, you'll need a private hire licence from a council that Uber is licensed by. All UK private hire drivers need a licence from a licensing authority such as a council.

In 2026, it is a mandatory legal requirement for all Uber drivers in the United Kingdom to hold a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence, also commonly known as a PCO licence in London. This licence must be issued by the specific local authority or council where the driver intends to operate, such as Transport for London (TfL). To obtain this, applicants must pass a series of rigorous checks, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) criminal record check, a medical fitness examination, and often a topographical or English language assessment. Driving for Uber without this licence is illegal and would result in immediate deactivation from the platform. Additionally, the vehicle itself must be licensed for private hire, meaning it must meet age, emission, and safety standards set by the local council. Uber's app requires drivers to upload high-quality color images of these physical licences before they are cleared to accept their first "trip" or "surge" request.