How to Become a Bolt Driver in London?

Are you considering a career as a Bolt driver? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know and do to become a Bolt driver. From obtaining the necessary licenses to signing up with Bolt, we’ll explore each step in detail to help you kickstart your journey as a Bolt driver in London.

Let’s explore each step in detail to become a Bolt driver in London:

Private Hire Driver License (PCO)

To obtain a Private Hire Driver License (PCO), follow these steps:

• Register with Transport for London (TfL): Begin by registering with TfL and starting your application online. Complete all necessary sections, providing accurate and up-to-date information.
• Undertake an enhanced criminal records check: TfL requires an enhanced criminal records check, which you can obtain through their authorised service provider. This check helps ensure that you are of good character.
• Medical declaration: Obtain a medical declaration from a qualified medical practitioner. Complete the Medical Declaration Form provided by TfL, confirming your fitness to drive for private hire purposes.
• Pass the Topographical Skills Test: Successfully complete the Topographical Skills Test, which assesses your knowledge of London’s streets, routes, and landmarks. This test ensures that you can navigate efficiently and safely while providing transportation services.
• Pass the English Speaking and Listening Test: TfL requires drivers to pass an English Speaking and Listening Test, which assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. This assessment is carried out by PeopleCert, an authorised test provider.
• Pass the Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU) Test: The SERU Test evaluates your understanding of safety regulations, equality laws, and other important regulations relevant to private hire driving. Passing this test demonstrates your knowledge and commitment to ensuring passenger safety and providing quality service.

Licensed Private Hire Vehicle (PHV)

As a Bolt driver, you’ll need access to a licensed Private Hire Vehicle (PHV). Ensure that the vehicle you choose meets the requirements set by TfL. These requirements typically include a maximum age limit for the vehicle, often around 10 years for new applicants. The PHV must also have a valid MOT certificate, indicating that it has passed the necessary safety. The Vehicle should meet the emission standards set by TfL. Additionally, you’ll need comprehensive hire and reward insurance specifically designed for private hire vehicles. Contact insurance providers that offer suitable policies to ensure your vehicle is adequately covered.

Hire and Reward Insurance

It’s crucial to have appropriate insurance coverage for private hire driving. Contact insurance providers that offer specialized private hire driver insurance and obtain a policy that meets TfL’s requirements. Ensure your policy covers public liability, passenger liability, and property damage.

Sign Up with Bolt

Once you have the necessary licenses, vehicle, and insurance, visit Bolt’s website or download the Bolt Driver app to sign up as a driver. Once approved, you can start accepting ride requests and offering rides to passengers through the Bolt platform.

Upload Documents

Follow the registration process, provide the required information and add all the required documents, such as your PCO license, PHV license, insurance certificate, MOT certificate, and bank statement. Await approval from Bolt, which typically involves verifying your documents and conducting checks.

Account Activation Meeting

The final step on how to become a Bolt driver in London is to book an onboarding meeting with Bolt. During the meeting, Bolt will verify your documents, activate your account, and assist you in taking a profile picture for identification purposes. Once these steps are complete, you will be all set to start driving for Bolt and offering rides to passengers in London.