If you’re thinking about turning into a rideshare or private lease driving force in London, you’ve in all likelihood heard the term “PCO licence” extra than once. It’s a key requirement for working with offerings like Uber, Bolt, and Ola. But now not anyone desires to shop for a vehicle outright to get commenced. That’s where the choice to rent a PCO licensed car turns into tremendously useful.
In this guide, we’ll wreck down the whole lot you want to know approximately rent a PCO licensed car—from the fees worried, to the blessings, and the primary necessities.
What Does It Mean to Rent a PCO Licensed Car?
If you hire a PCO license, you will basically hire a car that has already been accredited through transport for London (TFL) for private rental. The car comes with an energy license of private rental (PHV), which means that the prison is to use it for commercial transport of passengers.
This is ideal for drivers who want to avoid the in advance costs and trouble of buying and licensing their personal car.
Why Rent a PCO Licensed Car?
There are many reasons to hire a PCO licensed automobile, specially in case you’re simply starting out or need flexibility. Here are the pinnacle benefits:
No Upfront Investment
Buying a new, PCO-prepared automobile can cost upwards of £20,000. When you lease a PCO licensed vehicle, you pay weekly or month-to-month, which enables manipulate coins float higher.
Maintenance and Servicing Included
Most apartment organizations cowl recurring servicing, MOTs, and even roadside assistance. That manner fewer surprising prices and much less downtime.
Insurance Covered
Many condo agreements include non-public rent coverage, which can be pricey on its own in case you’re sourcing it independently.
Flexible Terms
Whether you need a short-term weekly condominium or a longer-time period plan, the ability is one among the largest reasons drivers choose to rent a PCO certified vehicle instead of buying one.
Drive a Modern, Clean Vehicle
With guidelines tightening around emissions, specifically in London, rental fleets are commonly updated regularly. That approach you’ll regularly get to power a clean, ULEZ-compliant car.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a PCO Licensed Car?
The fee varies relying on the auto version, condominium length, and the company, but right here’s a general breakdown:
- Standard Petrol/Hybrid Cars (e.G., Toyota Prius): £a hundred and eighty–£250 in line with week
- Electric Vehicles (e.G., Kia e-Niro, Nissan Leaf): £250–£three hundred per week
- Luxury Models (e.G., Tesla, Mercedes): £300 in keeping with week
What’s typically covered:
- Insurance
- Servicing and preservation
- MOT
- Road tax
- 24/7 breakdown cowl
- PHV licence prices (once in a while)
Make certain to examine the nice print. Some agencies may also price more for mileage, transport, or deposit. Always ask for a complete price breakdown before you hire a PCO licensed car.
Requirements to Rent a PCO Licensed Car
Before you could hire a PCO licensed vehicle, you’ll need some matters in area:
PCO Licence (PHL)
You have to have a valid PCO licence issued with the aid of TfL. Without this, you legally can’t work as a personal rent driver in London.
UK Driving Licence
A complete UK riding licence with at the least 3 years of riding experience is generally required.
National Insurance Number
Rental organizations will ask for this as part of the verification manner.
Proof of Address
Usually, a recent software invoice or bank declaration dated in the closing three months.
Deposit
Most organizations will ask for a deposit ranging from £2 hundred to £500, which is refundable when you go back the auto in suitable circumstance.
Once all these requirements are met, you could start using as soon as the following day in many cases.
Things to Watch Out For
While there are many upsides to renting a PCO licensed car, maintain an eye out for:
- Hidden expenses: Ask approximately extra mileage, harm charges, and coverage excess.
- Contract phrases: Check for minimal condominium intervals and cancellation guidelines.
- Vehicle circumstance: Always investigate the car earlier than taking it out. Take pics to report any pre-current harm.
Being informed allows you keep away from surprises and makes your rental revel in smoother.
Is It Better to Rent or Buy?
If you are new to the enterprise or not positive how long you need to stay in it, renting a PCO licensed car is the smarter pass. It gives you the flexibility to check the waters with out a long-term dedication.
However, in case you’re in it for the long haul and ready to invest, proudly owning a PCO-ready automobile may additionally save you money within the long term.
Final Thoughts
To rent a PCO licensed car is one of the most practical ways to get started in London’s booming non-public rent marketplace. It’s price-effective, bendy, and receives you on the road speedy with fewer in advance hurdles. Whether you’re a full-time driver or simply testing the gig economic system, renting offers a decrease-danger course into the enterprise.
Just make sure you understand the costs, meet all the necessities, and pick out a reputable apartment issuer. With the right setup, you’ll be driving and earning right away.
