How many questions are in the SERU test, what is the pass mark, and is it open book? These are the most searched questions about TfL's Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding assessment, and they have the most confused answers online. You will see 36, 37 and even 60 questions quoted, pass marks of 60% and 75%, and time limits from 45 to 60 minutes.
The reason is simple: TfL does not publish the private hire figures on its SERU page. What it does publish is a set of official documents that point clearly to the answer. This page lists every figure, what TfL itself says, which official document supports it, and what other websites claim, so you can see exactly how firm each number is. UK Driver Licence Prep is an independent study aid, not part of TfL. Figures were checked against TfL's pages and notices on 19 October 2026.
SERU test format: official vs reported
| Figure | What TfL's SERU page says | Official proxy | What other sites claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of questions | Not published | Taxi SERU: 36 questions (TPH Notice 06/25), described as similar | 36 (most), 37 (some), 60 (wrong) |
| Pass mark | Not published | Taxi SERU: 60% (TPH 06/25) | 60% (most), 75% (wrong) |
| Time | Not published | "SERU assessments last 50 minutes", including a short video (On Route, Winter 2024) | 45 minutes plus intro, 50, 60 |
| Open book | Not stated | Trial announced in TPH Notice 01/24 (17 January 2024); taxi SERU is open book | Many say open book; not confirmed by TfL for private hire |
| Question types | Multiple choice and completing sentences by adding missing words | TPH 06/25 lists four styles for the taxi SERU | Some report drag-and-drop for missing words |
| Attempts | No limit stated | Taxi SERU: can be taken multiple times, licence not granted until you pass (TPH 06/25) | "Two attempts" (an old rule, out of date) |
| Results | Not stated | Taxi SERU: within 15 days at most (TPH 06/25); letter after quality assurance (On Route) | Same day, a few days |
| Fee | £40, re-sit £30 | TPH Notice 05/26, from 9 March 2026 | £36 / £16 (old) |
The rest of this page explains each line.
Key fact: The only firm, published SERU numbers are for the taxi version: 36 questions, 60% to pass, about one hour, open book. TfL says the private hire test is similar, which is why candidates and trainers use the same figures.
How many questions are in the SERU test?
TfL's private hire SERU page does not give a question count. The best official evidence is:
- TPH Notice 06/25, which introduced the taxi SERU on 1 October 2025, says that assessment has 36 questions in total and describes it as similar to the private hire SERU.
- TfL's online assessment guide for private hire drivers contains "over 36" knowledge-check questions. That is a revision resource, not the test, but it matches the scale.
Most candidates who have sat the private hire SERU report 36 questions. A few websites and news articles say 37. One or two pages claim "60 questions with a 75% pass mark": nothing TfL has published supports that, and it appears to be confused with another test.
Our practical advice: expect about 36 questions. Whether it is 36 or 37 makes almost no difference to how you prepare. What matters is being comfortable with every section of the handbook.
How the questions are chosen
TfL selects SERU questions at random from a database and says it keeps that database under review. Two drivers sitting the test at the same time see different papers, and a re-sit is unlikely to repeat your first paper, although similar questions may appear. TfL also does not publish how many questions come from each handbook section, so you cannot safely skip one.
What is the SERU pass mark?
The private hire pass mark is not published on TfL's SERU page. TPH Notice 06/25 sets the taxi SERU pass mark at 60%, and candidates report the same figure for private hire.
On a 36-question paper, 60% is 21.6 questions. Since you cannot score part of a question, you need 22 correct to reach 60%. That leaves room for 14 mistakes, which sounds generous until you meet the sentence-completion questions.
| Questions | 60% equals | Correct answers needed |
|---|---|---|
| 36 | 21.6 | 22 |
| 37 | 22.2 | 23 |
Is there negative marking?
TfL publishes no penalty for wrong answers. We do not claim that none exists, only that nothing in TfL's published material describes one. Either way, an unanswered question cannot score, so answer every question.
Exam tip: Do not aim for the pass mark. Aim for 85% in practice. Unfamiliar wording, nerves and the reading questions all cost marks on the day, and a margin covers them.
How long is the SERU test?
TfL's licensee magazine, On Route (Winter 2024), says SERU assessments last 50 minutes, and that this includes a brief instruction video at the start of the session. Some third-party sites describe this as about 45 minutes of questions plus a short introduction, which fits the official figure.
The taxi SERU is described in TPH 06/25 as taking approximately one hour.
| Version | Time | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Private hire SERU | 50 minutes including video | On Route, Winter 2024 |
| Taxi SERU | About one hour | TPH Notice 06/25 |
With about 36 questions in roughly 45 minutes of working time, you have a little over a minute per question. Multiple-choice questions take less; reading passages take more. The SERU mock test runs on a 50-minute timer so you can feel the pace.
Is the SERU test open book?
This is the figure people most want confirmed, and the honest answer has two parts.
- Taxi SERU: yes. TPH Notice 06/25 says a copy of the Taxi Driver Handbook is provided during the assessment.
- Private hire SERU: not confirmed. In TPH Notice 01/24, published on 17 January 2024, TfL announced a trial of an open-book SERU, with the handbook available during the assessment. Some trainers and candidates describe the private hire test as open book now. However, TfL's SERU page does not say so, and we have not found a TfL notice making it permanent.
Even where a handbook is provided, open book does not mean easy. With about a minute per question, you do not have time to search a 52-page handbook for every answer. Treat the handbook as a backup for one or two questions, not a plan.
Key fact: Prepare for the private hire SERU as a closed-book test. If a handbook is provided on the day, that is a bonus, not something to rely on.
SERU question types
TfL's own wording for the private hire SERU is "multiple choice questions and completing sentences by adding missing words". For the taxi SERU, TPH 06/25 lists four styles, and the private hire test is reported to use the same mix:
| Style | How it works | Where to practise |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple choice, one answer | Pick the single correct option | SERU mock 1 |
| Multiple choice, select all | Choose every correct option; more than one can be right | Check each option on its own |
| Reading passage | Read a short handbook extract, answer questions about it | Our mocks include reading sets |
| Missing words | Complete a text with words from a list; some words are spare | SERU fill in the blanks |
The missing-words style exists because the SERU is also TfL's B1 reading and writing test under its English language requirement. It is the style that catches most people, especially drivers who read English as a second language. Our free SERU English skills note covers the grammar behind it. Worked examples of each style are on the SERU questions and answers page.
Attempts and re-sits
TfL's published rules set no limit on attempts. TPH 06/25 says, for the taxi SERU, that the assessment can be taken multiple times but a licence will not be granted until you pass. Older websites still repeat a "two attempts, then reapply" rule. That reflected TfL's earlier approach, which was paused in January 2024, and it does not appear in TfL's current published material.
Each re-sit costs £30 (from 9 March 2026; the first attempt costs £40). How you book a re-sit and pay is covered on the SERU booking page.
How SERU results are given
- The assessment software marks the SERU automatically.
- The marks go through a two-tier quality assurance process before results are released.
- TfL sends a results letter. If you sat more than one assessment on the same visit, you receive one report with a score for each.
- You can ask TfL for a breakdown of your results, which tells you which areas to work on.
- For the taxi SERU, TfL says results are issued within a maximum of 15 days.
TfL does not give you a copy of the questions. The breakdown and your own notes are the only feedback you get, so write down the topics you found hard as soon as you leave the room.
For how many people pass, see the SERU pass rate page. TfL's Freedom of Information figure is 73% for assessments up to April 2024.
Pacing plan for about 36 questions
Knowing the format is only useful if you turn it into a plan for the 50 minutes. Here is a simple one, based on the official session length and the reported question count.
- First 5 minutes: watch the instruction video and settle in. Do not start worrying about time yet.
- First pass (about 30 minutes): answer every question you can do in under a minute. For a hard one, choose your best answer, flag it if the system allows, and move on.
- Reading passages: read the questions first, then the passage, so you know what you are looking for.
- Second pass (about 10 minutes): return to flagged questions. Read each sentence-completion answer in place one more time.
- Last few minutes: make sure nothing is left blank.
Why the numbers differ online
Most confusion comes from three sources. Some pages were written before the taxi SERU notice gave TfL's first published count, so they guessed. Some copy each other without checking, so one mistake spreads. And some mix up the SERU with the separate speaking and listening assessment or with council knowledge tests, which have very different formats. When a page gives a figure, look for the TfL document behind it. If there is none, treat it as a report, not a rule.
How our mocks match the SERU test format
Because TfL does not publish the private hire figures, our mocks use the best-supported assumption and say so:
| Our SERU mocks | Basis | |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | 36 | Taxi SERU figure (TPH 06/25); most candidate reports |
| Time | 50 minutes | On Route, Winter 2024 |
| Pass line | 22 correct (61%) | 60% of 36, rounded up |
| Styles | Multiple choice, sentence completion, reading passages | TfL SERU page; TPH 06/25 |
| Select all | Not yet included | Practise the habit of checking every option |
There are ten fixed mocks. Mock 1 is free, and so is the 20-question diagnostic. Pro unlocks mocks 2 to 10 and every section for £6.99 a week, £11.99 a month or £22.99 for three months; see pricing. There is no pass guarantee. If you drive a black cab, use the taxi SERU practice instead, which runs 36 questions in 60 minutes.
Your study plan
- Today: take the free SERU diagnostic to see where you stand.
- This week: read the free SERU exam guide and the handbook sections for your two weakest areas.
- Next week: practise sentence completion every day using the fill in the blanks method.
- Then: sit SERU mock 1 closed book, with the 50-minute timer. Check your pace at question 18: you should have about 25 minutes left.
- Before booking: reach 85% on three mocks in a row, then follow the steps on the SERU booking page. For the wider picture, see the SERU test hub.
8 free PHV SERU practice questions with answers
Try each one, then open the answer. For a timed experience use the free mock exam.
1. You must not park partially or wholly on the ___ in London.
- A. motorway
- B. roundabout
- C. bridge
- D. pavement
Show answer
D. pavement
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. You do not own a licensed PHV. Should you still know the licensing rules for PHVs?
- A. Yes, every PHV driver should know them
- B. No, they are only for vehicle owners
- C. Only if you plan to buy a car
- D. No, they are only for operators
Show answer
A. Yes, every PHV driver should know them
The handbook says that even if you do not own a licensed vehicle, you should know about the PHV licensing requirements.
3. A passenger with a guide dog wants to sit in the front. Where should the dog go?
- A. In the footwell with the passenger
- B. On the back seat, on its own
- C. In the boot, with the luggage
- D. In the driver's footwell
Show answer
A. In the footwell with the passenger
The assistance dog should stay with the passenger, in the footwell.
4. A bus stop by the kerb has no wide yellow or red line. Should you use it to pick up?
- A. Only if you are a taxi
- B. Avoid it if you can, as it may delay buses
- C. Yes, and you may wait there
- D. Yes, bus stops are the best pick-up points
Show answer
B. Avoid it if you can, as it may delay buses
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. Having a CCTV camera may reduce your insurance ___.
- A. premiums
- B. journeys
- C. claims only
- D. licences
Show answer
A. premiums
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. A passenger with a visual impairment needs to find the building entrance. What is good practice?
- A. Drive off quickly
- B. Ask someone passing to help
- C. Offer to guide them to a safe place
- D. Point and say 'over there'
Show answer
C. Offer to guide them to a safe place
On arrival, offer to help them out and guide them to a safe place before leaving.
7. How should you treat an assistance dog?
- A. As a friendly pet that you can play with
- B. As luggage that goes in the boot
- C. As a second passenger with its own seat
- D. As a working animal; do not stroke or feed it
Show answer
D. As a working animal; do not stroke or feed it
Assistance dogs are highly trained working animals. Do not stroke, feed or distract them.
8. Two passengers of the same sex hold hands in the back of your car. What should you do?
- A. Tell them to stop holding hands
- B. Treat them with the same respect as anyone
- C. Ask them questions about their relationship
- D. Make a joke about them to lighten the mood
Show answer
B. Treat them with the same respect as anyone
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.
Frequently asked questions
+How many questions are in the SERU test?
TfL does not publish the number for the private hire SERU. The taxi SERU has 36 questions, TfL describes the two assessments as similar, and most private hire candidates report 36 questions. Some websites say 37; treat any figure as reported, not official.
+What is the SERU pass mark?
TfL has not published a pass mark for the private hire SERU. The taxi SERU pass mark is 60%, and candidates report the same for private hire. On 36 questions, 60% works out at 21.6, so you need at least 22 correct if that figure applies.
+Is the SERU test open book?
The taxi SERU is open book: TfL provides a copy of the handbook. For the private hire SERU, TfL announced an open-book trial in January 2024 but has not confirmed on its website that it is permanent. Prepare as if you will not have the handbook.
+How long is the SERU test?
TfL's On Route magazine (Winter 2024) says SERU assessments last 50 minutes, including a short instruction video at the start. The taxi SERU takes about one hour.
+Is there negative marking in the SERU?
TfL publishes no penalty for wrong answers. Since an unanswered question cannot score, answer every question, making your best choice where you are unsure.
+Are SERU questions multiple choice?
Mostly, but not all. TfL describes multiple-choice questions and sentences you complete by adding missing words. For the taxi SERU it also lists select-all-that-apply questions and short reading passages with questions.
+Do you get the same questions if you resit the SERU?
Unlikely. TfL says questions are selected at random from a database, so a re-sit is unlikely to repeat the same questions, although similar ones may appear. TfL also keeps reviewing the database.
+How are SERU results given?
The software marks the SERU automatically, then the results go through quality assurance before TfL sends a results letter. If you sit several assessments, you get one report. You can ask for a breakdown, and for the taxi SERU TfL says results come within 15 days at most.
Study offline on your phone too
The UK Driver Licence Prep app has the same questions, works offline, and explains every answer in Urdu, Bengali, Punjabi, Arabic, Pashto, Farsi, Somali, Romanian or Polish, plus a map trainer for the Topographical.
Keep reading
- SERU Test: The TfL SERU Assessment ExplainedWhat the TfL SERU test covers, how it works for private hire and taxi drivers, fees from March 2026, and free SERU practice tests.
- Free SERU Mock Test (TfL Private Hire)Take a free SERU mock test: 36 TfL-style questions in 50 minutes with explanations. How to use mocks, review mistakes and know when to book.
- SERU Pass Rate: How Many Drivers Pass?The SERU pass rate from TfL's Freedom of Information data, newer reported figures, why drivers fail, and a plan to pass the SERU first time.
- SERU Fill in the Blanks: How to Pass Sentence CompletionHow to pass the SERU fill in the blanks (sentence completion) questions: a six-step method, grammar points and worked examples. Practise free today.
- Taxi SERU Practice Test for London Black Cab DriversFree taxi SERU mock test for London black cab drivers: 36 questions, the Taxi Driver Handbook, open-book tips, fees and who must take it.