Transport for LondonCriminal Records Bureau checks
If you are applying to become a taxi proprietor and are not a licensed taxi driver, you will need to have a 'Standard' CRB check.
We're introducing a new CRB application process to improve the way we carry out CRB checks. The changes are being made in stages, so please ensure you follow the instructions provided with your licence application pack.
Please note: For driver applications, there are limited circumstances in which a CRB check is not required. Details can be found on the application form.
You will need to apply for a CRB check through TMG CRB, which manages taxi and private hire CRB checks on our behalf.
You must apply for a CRB check before you send your new licence or licence renewal application form to us. As soon as you have applied for your CRB check and had your identify verified, you will be given a reference number which you must include with your licence application.
The reference number will be either:
- An E-number if you have completed the form online - TMG CRB will provide this to you within three working days of receiving your application
- A F-number if you have applied by post - this number is on the top right hand side of the paper CRB application form
CRB checks only remain valid for three months so it's important that you send us your licence application (new or renewal) form as soon as you have applied for your CRB check and after your identity has been verified.
If your CRB check is more than three months old we won't be able to accept it and you will have to apply for a new check. Only CRB checks for TfL taxi or private hire licensees are acceptable - CRB checks carried out for other positions you have applied for will not be accepted.
Online CRB application
The quickest, cheapest and easiest way to apply is online:
- Email tphcrb@tmgcrb.co.uk to request an online application - you'll be sent an email containing an application code and a full step-by-step guide
- Once you've received the email and completed the online application process you'll need to print off the form which contains your unique barcode token
- You'll need to have your identity verified - this can be done at selected Post Offices by taking along your unique barcode token plus three original documents that prove your identity
- Once your identity has been verified, your CRB application will be sent to TMG CRB and you'll receive a unique E-number within three working days. This number will either be sent to your specified email address or you can access this via your TMG CRB Online account
- After the CRB check has been completed you'll be sent a paper copy of the results (referred to as a CRB disclosure)
After you have the E-number you must complete your licence application (new or renewal) form and send this to us. Please remember to put the E-number in the required section of the licence application form.
Guidance notes for Online CRB application (PDF 435KB)
Paper CRB application
You can also request a paper CRB application form by emailing tphcrb@tmgcrb.co.uk or calling 0845 251 5000.
Once you've received the application form you should:
- Read the guidance notes before you complete the CRB application form. Incorrect CRB applications will not be accepted and could delay your licence application or your licence being renewed
- Complete your CRB application form - make sure all the required fields are completed and the declaration is signed
- Once your CRB application form is complete, you can either
(a) Take your completed CRB application form to one of the selected Post Offices along with your payment and original documents to have your identity verified. You will then be issued with a verification receipt by the Post Office. After your identity has been verified by the Post Office, you should write the F-number recorded on your CRB application form (found on the top right of the CRB form) in the section provided on your Licence application before you then send the completed CRB application and ID verification receipt to TMG CRB.
OR
(b) Send your CRB application form, along with your payment and your original ID documents to verify your identity to TMG CRB. We recommend you send your documents by Royal Mail Special Delivery. They will be returned to you by first class post unless you enclose a pre-paid Special or Recorded Delivery envelope.
Before you send the documents to TMG CRB you should write the F-number recorded on your CRB application form (found on the top right of the CRB form) in the section provided on your Licence application form. You must then wait until you have received your original ID documents back before you submit your licence application form to us, as the return of your original ID documents confirms that your identity has been verified. - After the CRB check has been completed you'll be sent a paper copy of the results (referred to as a CRB disclosure)
Once your identity has been verified, either at the Post Office or after your original documents return from TMG CRB, you should complete your licence application (new or renewal) form, with the F-number stated in the appropriate section, and send this to us.
Proof of identity
To verify your identity you must provide three original documents. Details of the acceptable documents will be included in your application email or pack, but where possible please provide documents that confirm your:
- Driving licence number
- Passport number
- National Insurance number eg from your NI card, P45, P60, payslip or tax return
Post Office services
You can search for Post Offices that accept CRB applications and taxi and private hire driver licence applications and renewals on www.postoffice.co.uk/counterservices
Fees
| Categories | Details | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| CRB application | Online application | £55 |
| CRB application | Paper application | £57 |
| Post Office ID checking service | £7.15 |
Contact
If you have any queries about applying for a CRB check please contact TMG CRB by:
Email: tphcrb@tmgcrb.co.uk
Telephone: 0854 251 5000
The helpline is open between 08:30-17:30 Monday to Friday and also has a 24-hour messaging service
Post:
TPH @ TMG CRB
1 Wilford Business Park
Ruddington Lane
Nottingham
NG11 7EP
