Mayor of London Responds to Ongoing Concerns Over TfL Taxi and Private Hire Licence Delays

The Mayor of London has acknowledged growing concerns from taxi and private hire drivers over ongoing delays with Transport for London’s (TfL) licensing system.

Many drivers have reported losing work and income due to lengthy waits for their licence applications or renewals to be processed, prompting unions and trade bodies to call for urgent action.

Drivers Say Delays Are “Unacceptable”

At a recent Mayor’s Question Time, Green Party Assembly Member Caroline Russell raised complaints from drivers who say TfL repeatedly asks for additional paperwork and medical checks, dragging out the process and leaving them unable to work.

Drivers argue that these delays are not only affecting their livelihoods but also risking public safety by creating uncertainty around licensing standards.

What TfL Is Doing to Tackle the Backlog

In response, the Mayor outlined several steps TfL is taking to address the issue:

Fast-tracking renewals: Applications from drivers whose licences have expired or are close to expiry are being prioritised.
Hiring more staff: Extra staff have been brought in to help process applications quicker.
Fixing system errors: Work is ongoing to streamline data and resolve internal issues causing bottlenecks.
Improved communication: TfL has promised clearer guidance to drivers to avoid repeated requests for missing documents.
Medical check reforms: Meetings with industry representatives are planned to simplify the medical assessment process.

The Mayor said TfL “continues to review its processes to identify opportunities for streamlining, including reducing delays caused by incomplete applications or multiple follow-ups.”

Unions Threaten Legal Action

Despite these assurances, unions remain highly critical of the delays:

The Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB) has threatened judicial review proceedings, arguing TfL is breaching its duty by failing to process applications within a reasonable timeframe.
The GMB union has warned of potential compensation claims on behalf of drivers left unable to earn while waiting for licence renewals.

As of mid-2025, around 480 drivers were awaiting re-licensing despite submitting all documentation, while a further 1,400 cases were pending additional information, according to figures reported in the Evening Standard.

Risks for TfL and the Industry

The ongoing backlog has significant consequences for both drivers and the wider industry:

Financial hardship: Some drivers have reported vehicle repossessions due to loss of income.
Reputation damage: TfL faces growing criticism from unions, drivers, and London Assembly members.
Legal risk: Judicial reviews or compensation claims could force further reform of TfL’s licensing system.

The Mayor’s latest response signals a willingness to engage with the trade, but many drivers say they will judge TfL by results, not promises.

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