SERU English skills: reading, cloze and comprehension

The SERU assessment does two jobs at once: it checks your knowledge of safety, equality and regulatory matters, and it tests your English reading and writing at B1 level. To pass, you need exam techniques as well as knowledge of the handbooks. This note explains the English Language Requirement, the four question types used in SERU, and practical techniques for multiple choice, cloze (missing word) and reading questions.

The English Language Requirement in brief

All London private hire drivers must show an appropriate level of English, known as the English Language Requirement (ELR). The required level is B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for reading, writing, speaking and listening. The requirement applies to licence applications received by TfL on or after 14 October 2016.

From 1 October 2021, TfL changed how English skills are assessed. The SERU assessment is used to assess your reading and writing skills. Since 1 April 2023, every new PHV applicant must take and pass both the speaking and listening test and the SERU assessment, in addition to the Topographical assessment, before they can be licensed.