The standard
TfL expects every licensed driver to speak, listen, read and write English to about level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference, the level of someone who can deal with most everyday situations.
How taxi applicants show it
- Speaking and listening: the Knowledge itself. Years of oral appearances with examiners show it.
- Reading and writing: the SERU assessment, which every new taxi driver passes before being licensed.
Private hire drivers take a separate speaking and listening test. Taxi applicants do not.
Sources
- TfL, Taxi and private hire driver policy, version 6.0, 1 September 2026, sections 3.9 to 3.9.2
From the guide: How to become a London taxi driver