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PHV SERU: 50 practice questions

Mock format: 36 questions, 50 minutes, pass 22/36 (61%). Answer key on the last page. From theorytestrevision.co.uk · independent study aid, not an official test. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

  1. 1. You must not park partially or wholly on the ___ in London.

    1. A. motorway
    2. B. roundabout
    3. C. bridge
    4. D. pavement

  2. 2. You do not own a licensed PHV. Should you still know the licensing rules for PHVs?

    1. A. Yes, every PHV driver should know them
    2. B. No, they are only for vehicle owners
    3. C. Only if you plan to buy a car
    4. D. No, they are only for operators

  3. 3. A passenger with a guide dog wants to sit in the front. Where should the dog go?

    1. A. In the footwell with the passenger
    2. B. On the back seat, on its own
    3. C. In the boot, with the luggage
    4. D. In the driver's footwell

  4. 4. A bus stop by the kerb has no wide yellow or red line. Should you use it to pick up?

    1. A. Only if you are a taxi
    2. B. Avoid it if you can, as it may delay buses
    3. C. Yes, and you may wait there
    4. D. Yes, bus stops are the best pick-up points

  5. 5. Having a CCTV camera may reduce your insurance ___.

    1. A. premiums
    2. B. journeys
    3. C. claims only
    4. D. licences

  6. 6. A passenger with a visual impairment needs to find the building entrance. What is good practice?

    1. A. Drive off quickly
    2. B. Ask someone passing to help
    3. C. Offer to guide them to a safe place
    4. D. Point and say 'over there'

  7. 7. How should you treat an assistance dog?

    1. A. As a friendly pet that you can play with
    2. B. As luggage that goes in the boot
    3. C. As a second passenger with its own seat
    4. D. As a working animal; do not stroke or feed it

  8. 8. Two passengers of the same sex hold hands in the back of your car. What should you do?

    1. A. Tell them to stop holding hands
    2. B. Treat them with the same respect as anyone
    3. C. Ask them questions about their relationship
    4. D. Make a joke about them to lighten the mood

  9. 9. Why must the operator be told when you do not carry out a booking?

    1. A. It must fine the passenger for the problem
    2. B. It must report every refusal to TfL
    3. C. It is responsible for the booking it accepted
    4. D. It will pay you for the time you lost

  10. 10. What is a fixed penalty notice (FPN)?

    1. A. A certificate showing you passed SERU
    2. B. A letter from your operator about a booking
    3. C. A permit to park in a bus lane
    4. D. A notice that can bring a fine and penalty points for an offence

  11. 11. A passenger shouted abuse about your race yesterday and nobody is in danger now. Which police number should you use to report it?

    1. A. 111
    2. B. 112
    3. C. 999
    4. D. 101

  12. 12. How can a passenger check that you are the correct driver for their booking?

    1. A. By comparing the details from the operator with your badge
    2. B. By calling the police before getting in
    3. C. By asking to see the driver's bank card
    4. D. By checking the colour of the car only

  13. 13. Your operator starts a ridesharing service. Who should provide ridesharing training?

    1. A. TfL's examiners
    2. B. The DVLA
    3. C. Your operator
    4. D. The passengers

  14. 14. Are licensed London taxis (black cabs) exempt from the Congestion Charge?

    1. A. Only at weekends and bank holidays
    2. B. Yes, while actively licensed
    3. C. Only the electric taxis are exempt
    4. D. No, they pay the same as PHVs

  15. 15. You do not own a PHV; you rent one. Why does the handbook say you should still know the vehicle licensing rules?

    1. A. Only renters can be fined for it
    2. B. Renters must pay the licence fee
    3. C. You drive it and must use it legally
    4. D. Renters must fit the licence discs

  16. 16. When might TfL suspend or revoke a PHV driver's licence because of complaints?

    1. A. Only when the driver asks TfL to do it
    2. B. Never, because only operators deal with complaints
    3. C. After any single late arrival at a pick-up point
    4. D. After a serious complaint or a pattern of poor behaviour

  17. 17. Who investigates reports of unacceptable sexual behaviour by PHV drivers?

    1. A. TfL or the police
    2. B. Only the passenger's family
    3. C. The Highway Code office
    4. D. Only the operator's marketing team

  18. 18. You arrive to find the passenger has an assistance dog, which the booking did not mention. What must you do?

    1. A. Cancel the booking
    2. B. Ask for a dog fee
    3. C. Ask the operator to send another car
    4. D. Carry the passenger and the dog

  19. 19. When you turn the ignition key, which warning light may stay on after the engine starts?

    1. A. The handbrake warning light
    2. B. The oil warning light
    3. C. The battery charge light
    4. D. The engine fault light

  20. 20. Besides the police and NSPCC, who else does TfL's safeguarding page list as somewhere to report concerns?

    1. A. Your car dealer
    2. B. Your local council
    3. C. Your own bank
    4. D. Your local gym

  21. 21. What three steps does DfT guidance recommend when giving assistance?

    1. A. Decide, act, then explain later
    2. B. Lift, load, then leave quickly
    3. C. Ask, listen, then act on what you are told
    4. D. Guess, try, then say sorry

  22. 22. A red route PCN can be given in which ways?

    1. A. Only by text message to the driver
    2. B. By an officer, or by post after CCTV
    3. C. Only by a police officer, in person
    4. D. Only through your PHV operator

  23. 23. What share of London's roads are TfL red routes?

    1. A. About 5%
    2. B. About 25%
    3. C. About 1%
    4. D. About 50%

  24. 24. You must return your badge and licence when they pass their ___ date.

    1. A. birth
    2. B. payment
    3. C. booking
    4. D. expiry

  25. 25. You measure your front tyre tread at 1.4 mm. What does this mean?

    1. A. It is under the 1.6 mm legal minimum
    2. B. It is legal until it reaches 1.0 mm
    3. C. It is fine for city driving only
    4. D. It only matters in the winter

  26. 26. Always have a pen and ___ with you so you can write things down.

    1. A. phone
    2. B. map
    3. C. paper
    4. D. torch

  27. 27. Are you, the driver, legally responsible for recording booking details?

    1. A. No, and changes do not matter
    2. B. Yes, you must photograph each passenger
    3. C. Yes, you must keep a written book
    4. D. No, but you should tell the operator of changes

  28. 28. What should you do if you need to check a map or navigation screen in detail?

    1. A. Read it while driving slowly
    2. B. Ask the passenger to hold it up
    3. C. Check it at red lights
    4. D. Find a safe place to stop first

  29. 29. You spent a four-month extended holiday abroad seven years ago. Do you need a Certificate of Good Conduct?

    1. A. Only if you worked there
    2. B. No, it was more than five years ago
    3. C. Yes, extended holidays count
    4. D. No, holidays never count

  30. 30. Which approach is most likely to calm an angry passenger?

    1. A. Speaking loudly to show you are in charge
    2. B. Correcting them every time they speak
    3. C. Speaking calmly and listening without interrupting
    4. D. Refusing to explain your decisions

  31. 31. Why should you drive carefully when passing bus stops?

    1. A. Pedestrians may step out suddenly into the road
    2. B. Buses always pull out without looking
    3. C. Bus stops are where PHVs should pick up
    4. D. Passing a bus stop at any speed is an offence

  32. 32. Why does the handbook say speed matters so much in a collision?

    1. A. Speed only matters on motorways
    2. B. Slow cars use more fuel
    3. C. Faster cars brake better
    4. D. Injuries get worse as speed increases

  33. 33. If a passenger's behaviour is offensive because of your faith, it is a hate ___.

    1. A. crime
    2. B. fare
    3. C. rule
    4. D. joke

  34. 34. What fixed penalty can a driver or passenger get for smoking in a licensed PHV?

    1. A. £180
    2. B. £50
    3. C. £12.50
    4. D. £1,000

  35. 35. Drivers must make sure that all children are correctly seated and ___.

    1. A. entertained
    2. B. comfortable
    3. C. restrained
    4. D. quiet

  36. 36. What is the maximum fine for a driver who fails to carry out a s.165 duty?

    1. A. A fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale
    2. B. A fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale
    3. C. A fixed penalty of £50 only
    4. D. Only a warning letter from TfL

  37. 37. An older passenger's companion takes their bank card and pays for everything, and the passenger seems unhappy. What may this be a sign of?

    1. A. Normal good manners and kindness
    2. B. A fault with the card machine
    3. C. An error made in the booking
    4. D. Someone else controlling their money

  38. 38. Safeguarding means protecting children and adults at risk from harm and ___.

    1. A. traffic
    2. B. weather
    3. C. fines
    4. D. abuse

  39. 39. Your operator must agree a fare or give an ___ estimate before the journey starts.

    1. A. accurate
    2. B. hidden
    3. C. old
    4. D. optional

  40. 40. A passenger who was friendly suddenly goes silent, stares at you and taps their fingers hard. What should you do?

    1. A. Stare back so they know you are not afraid
    2. B. Trust your feelings and act early to avoid a problem
    3. C. Ignore it because the passenger was friendly before
    4. D. Wait until they start shouting before doing anything

  41. 41. What defence can a PHV operator use for not accepting a booking from a disabled passenger under s.167A?

    1. A. No suitable vehicles were available
    2. B. The driver did not feel like it
    3. C. The journey was too short to be worth it
    4. D. The passenger was rude on the phone

  42. 42. A PHV driver's electric car is not on Auto Pay. They pay the charge on the day. How much do they pay?

    1. A. £13.50
    2. B. £0
    3. C. £21
    4. D. £18

  43. 43. Two strangers share a PHV to work every day. What risk does TfL describe?

    1. A. They may both have to pay the full fare
    2. B. One may learn private details about the other
    3. C. The vehicle may need a bigger licence
    4. D. The driver may lose their badge

  44. 44. As well as calling 101, how else can you report a non-emergency crime to the police?

    1. A. Report it online
    2. B. Post it on social media
    3. C. Write to TfL's fares team
    4. D. Tell a bus driver

  45. 45. Petrol PHVs must be Euro 4 and diesel PHVs must be Euro ___ to meet the ULEZ standard.

    1. A. 3
    2. B. 6
    3. C. 5
    4. D. 4

  46. 46. What is likely to happen to a driver who is violent towards a TfL employee, unless there is significant mitigation?

    1. A. Their licence is likely to be revoked
    2. B. They will get a verbal warning only
    3. C. They will need a new vehicle licence
    4. D. Nothing, if the employee was not injured

  47. 47. Putting a phone cradle in the area covered by your wipers is an ___.

    1. A. option
    2. B. offence
    3. C. advantage
    4. D. extra

  48. 48. You are waiting for a passenger to get in and you are watching sexual videos on your phone. Why is this unacceptable?

    1. A. It uses too much of your mobile data
    2. B. It is fine if the passenger cannot see it
    3. C. Watching sexual material at work is unacceptable
    4. D. It is only wrong while you are driving

  49. 49. What must operators keep about all complaints made to them?

    1. A. Only complaints from regular customers
    2. B. Details of every complaint
    3. C. Nothing after a week
    4. D. Only complaints about fares

  50. 50. A passenger's voice suddenly changes and becomes low and threatening. What should you do?

    1. A. Treat it as a warning sign and act early
    2. B. Make a joke to change the mood
    3. C. Turn up the radio
    4. D. Ignore it because they have not shouted

Answer key

  1. 1. D — The Highway Code says you must not park partially or wholly on the pavement in London, except in limited circumstances. Pavement parking blocks pedestrians and wheelchair users. Park at the kerb.
  2. 2. A — The handbook says that even if you do not own a licensed vehicle, you should know about the PHV licensing requirements.
  3. 3. A — The assistance dog should stay with the passenger, in the footwell.
  4. 4. B — You should avoid picking up or dropping off at bus stops, as this can delay buses and may not be allowed. Where there is a wide yellow or red line, you must not stop at all. Choose another place.
  5. 5. A — Having CCTV may reduce insurance premiums because recordings can be useful evidence in a dispute. A premium is the amount you pay for insurance. The camera itself is an extra cost.
  6. 6. C — On arrival, offer to help them out and guide them to a safe place before leaving.
  7. 7. D — Assistance dogs are highly trained working animals. Do not stroke, feed or distract them.
  8. 8. B — You should never make comments or jokes about someone's sexual orientation. Treat all passengers with respect and professionalism. Drivers who behave unacceptably face action by TfL or the police.
  9. 9. C — Because the operator accepted the booking, it must arrange another driver or tell the passenger it is cancelled.
  10. 10. D — A fixed penalty notice is given for some traffic offences. It can include a fine and penalty points on your licence, as an alternative to going to court.
  11. 11. D — TfL advises drivers to report incidents to the police as soon as possible. Use 101 when it is not an emergency. Use 999 if there is an emergency, for example if someone is in danger now.
  12. 12. A — Your operator must give passengers your name, photograph and vehicle details. Passengers can check this information against your badge.
  13. 13. C — If your operator offers ridesharing, talk to them about training; the operator should provide it.
  14. 14. B — Taxis are exempt from the Congestion Charge when they are actively licensed. PHVs are not exempt, except designated wheelchair-accessible PHVs on a booking. This is one of the differences between taxis and PHVs.
  15. 15. C — Even if you do not own a licensed vehicle, you should know about these requirements because you use it for private hire.
  16. 16. D — TfL may suspend or revoke a licence if there is a serious complaint, several complaints, or a pattern of poor behaviour. This applies when all ways to improve the behaviour have been tried and failed. Complaints are taken seriously.
  17. 17. A — TfL takes this issue extremely seriously. TfL or the police will fully investigate all complaints and reports and take appropriate action. Drivers found to have acted unsuitably will lose their licence.
  18. 18. D — You must carry the passenger and their assistance dog. Refusing is an offence unless you hold a valid exemption on display.
  19. 19. A — Most warning lights go out when the engine starts, except the handbrake warning light.
  20. 20. B — TfL lists your local council, the NSPCC and the police as places to report concerns, and you can report anonymously.
  21. 21. C — The guidance recommends drivers ask passengers what help they need, listen to and understand the answer, then act on it.
  22. 22. B — A PCN may be issued at the time by a civil enforcement officer. TfL may also use CCTV cameras, and you then receive the PCN later by post. Follow the signs and markings to avoid one.
  23. 23. A — TfL's red routes make up about 5% of London's roads but carry up to 30% of the city's traffic. This is why stopping rules are strict. They keep traffic moving safely.
  24. 24. D — Return the badge and licence when they expire or you stop being licensed.
  25. 25. A — The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm. 1.4 mm is below it, so the tyre must be replaced.
  26. 26. C — A pen and paper help you communicate with passengers who have hearing problems or limited English.
  27. 27. D — Drivers are not personally responsible for recording details, but should tell the operator about any changes.
  28. 28. D — Do not be distracted by maps or screen information while driving. If necessary, find a safe place to stop.
  29. 29. C — Periods of extended holiday are included. Four months is over three months and within the last 10 years, so a CoGC is needed.
  30. 30. C — Talking calmly and not raising your voice, listening without interrupting and explaining things all help. These steps reduce the chance of violence. Respond to the person's concerns.
  31. 31. A — People getting on and off buses may walk out suddenly from in front of or behind the bus. Drive carefully and slowly when passing bus and tram stops.
  32. 32. D — The faster you drive, the less time you have to avoid a collision, and injuries are more serious.
  33. 33. A — Offensive or violent behaviour because of your race, faith, sexual orientation, disability or gender identity is a hate crime. Report it to the police. TfL urges drivers to report it.
  34. 34. B — Drivers or passengers found smoking in a licensed taxi or PHV may get a fixed penalty notice of £50. If prosecuted and convicted, the maximum fine is £200. TfL may also review a driver's fitness.
  35. 35. C — Drivers must make sure children are correctly seated and restrained, using a seat belt or child seat.
  36. 36. A — A driver who fails to comply commits an offence and can be fined up to level 3 on the standard scale.
  37. 37. D — An adult who seems to have their money controlled by someone else may be at risk of financial abuse.
  38. 38. D — Safeguarding is about protecting people from harm and abuse.
  39. 39. A — The operator must give an accurate estimate or an agreed fare.
  40. 40. B — A sudden change in behaviour, aggressive staring and tapping fingers are warning signs. TfL advises you to trust your feelings and never ignore these signs. The earlier you notice a problem, the more choices you have to avoid it.
  41. 41. A — It is a defence for the operator to show it was reasonable not to accept the booking because there was a lack of suitable vehicles.
  42. 42. D — The 25% Cleaner Vehicle Discount applies only to electric cars registered on Auto Pay. Without Auto Pay, the full charge applies: £18 on the day or in advance. Registering for Auto Pay is free.
  43. 43. B — One passenger could learn things like the other's home address, workplace, routine and whether they live alone. This could make them vulnerable to crime.
  44. 44. A — TfL advises drivers to report incidents to the police as soon as possible. You can call 101, report a crime online, or call 999 in an emergency. Official reports allow the police to investigate.
  45. 45. B — Petrol PHVs must meet Euro 4 and diesel PHVs must meet Euro 6. Vehicles that do not meet these must pay the daily charge. Check your vehicle on the TfL website.
  46. 46. A — TfL will not tolerate violence, bullying or harassment towards its staff or agents. Drivers found doing this will have their fitness reviewed. Unless there is significant mitigation, violent behaviour is likely to result in revocation.
  47. 47. B — A cradled device in the swept area is an offence, which can lead to a fine and points.
  48. 48. C — You should never watch, display or share pornographic or sexual pictures or other sexual material. This is listed as unacceptable sexual behaviour. It could make passengers feel very unsafe.
  49. 49. B — Operators must keep details of all complaints made to them.
  50. 50. A — A change to the voice is listed as a warning sign of possible aggression. Trust your feelings and act early. Speak calmly and plan how to keep yourself safe.

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