To obtain a PCO license, successfully passing the TfL topographical test is a mandatory requirement. This test assesses your map reading and practical navigation skills, which are essential in the private hire industry.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Topographical Test
The topographical test is an assessment that evaluates your map reading skills, index usage, general topography understanding, route planning, and compass point orientation using the Master Atlas of Greater London book.
Don’t worry if any of the above sounds complicated. We’ll break them down and explain what they are below.
Private hire drivers normally use applications such as Waze or Google Maps on their phones to navigate and complete rides. The topographical test uses traditional methods of navigating using a physical book, understanding the fundamentals of map reading and manual route planning.
The test is computer-based and expects you to be able to operate a mouse.
You will have 90 minutes to answer 25 questions.
Cost of Assessment
The assessment costs £36 for the initial attempt and £16 for a re-sit.
Marking Criteria
The test has 100 marks in total, and you’ve got to score at least 60 to pass.
This test is divided into four main components, each of which plays a crucial role in evaluating your aptitude for effectively navigating London’s intricate streets and landmarks. Let’s explore these components and understand their significance in assessing your topographical knowledge:
1. Index-Based Questions
The first component of the test focuses on your ability to utilize the indexes within the “Master Atlas of Greater London.” You’ll be presented with questions that require you to identify specific points or locations using the atlas’s indexes. This segment assesses your familiarity with the atlas’s structure, your efficiency in locating grid references, and your competence in identifying relevant page numbers. Accurate use of the indexes demonstrates your foundation in map navigation and your capability to quickly pinpoint key locations.
2. General Topography Questions
The second component challenges your general topographical understanding by testing your capacity to interpret different maps within the atlas. You’ll encounter questions that require you to determine directions and identify points or locations on the maps. This section evaluates your proficiency in reading map legends, recognizing symbols, and making sense of spatial relationships. Proficiency in general topography is essential for real-world navigation, as it enables you to navigate unfamiliar areas confidently.
3. Planning a Route Questions
The third segment evaluates your skill in planning routes between two locations using the “Master Atlas of Greater London.” You’ll need to identify the most direct and efficient routes based on the provided information. This component assesses your ability to analyze map details, consider alternate paths, and choose optimal routes for various scenarios. Proficiency in route planning is crucial for offering passengers efficient journeys and avoiding unnecessary delays.
4. Compass Point Questions
The final component assesses your familiarity with compass points and your ability to navigate through scenarios based on directional cues. You’ll encounter questions that involve travelling specific distances in different directions and identifying your final location. This section evaluates your understanding of compass points and your capacity to apply them practically. Mastery of compass points empowers you to provide accurate directions and make informed navigational decisions.
Each of these four components is designed to assess a specific aspect of your topographical knowledge and navigation skills. By excelling in these areas, you’ll not only prove your competence to pass the test but also demonstrate your readiness to embark on a successful career as a PCO driver. As we delve deeper into each component in the following sections, remember that mastering the “Master Atlas of Greater London” will be your key to success in the TfL Topographical Test and beyond.
Preparing for the Topographical Test
The test will be based on the Master Atlas of Greater London and will include questions on general topography, usage of indexes, route planning and compass points. See above for more details on each component.
Practice questions around each section thoroughly.
On the day of the test, be sure to arrive early and bring all required documents and identification. Dress appropriately and be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a professional and courteous manner.
By following these tips and putting in the necessary time and effort to prepare, you can increase your chances of success on the TfL topographical test.
Practical Tips for Success
- Eye for detail: Make sure you understand all the symbols and marks on the map.
- Put more emphasis on route planning as they carry more marks
- Check your answers
Resources for Preparation
TfL Driver Assessment Centres
Topographical testing is currently undertaken at TfL driver assessment centres at Pier Walk and West Kensington.
Pier Walk
14 Pier Walk
London
SE10 0ES
West Kensington
Ashfield House
7 Beaumont Avenue
London W14 9UY