English language tests for private hire drivers

About the test

English language proficiency at CEFR level B1 is required for all applications to TfL (Transport for London) for private hire driver licences from 14 October 2016. This includes applications for both renewal and new licences.

Trinity’s ISE I Secure English Language Test (SELT) at CEFR level B1 is approved by TfL for this purpose.

Full details and how to book this exam are detailed below. 

ISE I

• SELT - Secure English Language Test
• Test of 4 skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening
• Test taken in 1 day
• Certificate usually sent within 21 days 
• ISE I = CEFR level B1 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)

Prepare for your test/learning support

Learning support resources SELT preparation courses Special needs requests

Take with you to the test

• You must take proof of identity (ID) to the SELT test centre. Please read Trinity's SELT Centre Candidate ID policy.
• Remember to download and complete a Topic Form to take to the exam for discussion with the examiner.

Results and certificates

When you get your results for ISE, you receive:

• a certificate if you passed both parts of the test
• a diagnostic report for each skill showing how you performed in the test

Certificates are usually sent within 21 days of candidates passing both parts of the ISE test.

Visit Results and certificates for:

• Information if you pass or fail
• Understanding your diagnostic report
• ISE scoring information
• How to improve your skills if you have failed

Approved by UKVI

Trinity SELT qualifications are also approved by UKVI for British Citizenship, Settlement and visa applications. This means that the ISE I (B1) SELT can also be used if applying for:

• British Citizenship (Naturalisation)
• Further Leave to Remain
• Indefinite Leave to Remain
• Tier 2 and 4 visas