New PHV drivers also take TfL's topographical skills test. It checks that you can read a map and plan a route in London. This guide explains the test; our free trainer lets you practise it.
6-minute read. Last checked 3 Nov 2026.
Topographical trainer
Plan routes on an on-screen London street map, one of each type, like the test. Free: 3 routes, 30 map questions and all 25 lessons. No sign-up.
Try a free routeThe test is on a computer, and you use a mouse. The map is on the screen. TfL can also give you a copy of the map key: a page that explains the map symbols. TfL lists these parts:
You plan 3 routes on the digital map: a short one, a short one with a road closed, and a long one. The start is a green marker and the end is a red one. Routes give 66 of the 100 marks. The other questions are multiple choice, with one or two right answers.
You lose marks for a route that:
A TfL assessor marks each route and a second assessor checks it. TfL does not give detailed feedback or a copy of the test.
| Part | Before | Now |
|---|---|---|
| Map | Paper A–Z | On screen, with a paper legend |
| Time | 90 min | 70 min |
| Questions | 25 (4 routes) | 24 (3 routes + 21 questions) |
A–Z is a trade mark of HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. We are not connected with them.
6 timed mock tests come with Topographical Practice. The free routes, map questions and lessons stay free.
Your Topographical Practice ended on .
Your Topographical Practice · until . Continue routes
For new PHV drivers: all 49 routes, 304 map questions and 6 timed mock tests.
£24.99launch price · 90 days access
Best value
SERU Practice + Topographical Practice, 90 days each. £14.99 less than both apart.
£29.99launch price · 90 days access
For SERU Practice holders: 90 days from today, until . Your SERU date does not change.
£10launch price · 90 days access
Not affiliated with Transport for London.
TfL books new PHV drivers for SERU, the topographical test and the English speaking and listening test on the same day. Plan your study for all three. Our exam-day guide covers the day.
Practise both: SERU and Topographical, or the two together in the PCO Tests Pack. Start the free SERU practice test, or see prices.
Practise both: keep practising SERU with your SERU Practice, and plan routes for the topographical test.
At TfL's own assessment centre, 14 Pier Walk, London SE10 0ES, near North Greenwich station. Bring your booking confirmation and original photo ID.
Sources: TfL's topographical page and guidelines (29 April 2026), TfL's video and licensing policy. Checked 3 Nov 2026.
New London PHV driver applicants. You don't take it if you passed TfL's topographical test before, hold a London taxi licence (All London or suburban), or work as a professional London tourist guide, such as a Blue Badge guide. TfL accepts only its own certificates. If you have a disability or a health condition, ask TfL for adjustments before you book.
60%. The test has 100 marks: 66 for 3 routes on a map and 34 for the other questions.
70 minutes for 24 questions: 3 routes and 21 map questions. You can answer them in any order, flag them and come back. TfL shows this in its instructional video.
£40. A resit costs £30. You have 3 attempts.
Usually yes. TfL books new PHV drivers for SERU, the topographical test and the English speaking and listening test on the same day, at the same centre.
No sign-up. No card.Free with your account.
3 routes, 30 map questions and all 25 lessons. Your route marked, every mistake explained.
Try a free routeOpen topographical practiceTopographical Practice
Your Topographical Practice
Until . All 49 routes, 304 map questions and 6 timed mock tests are open.
Continue routesYour Topographical Practice ended on . Topographical Practice £24.99 · PCO Tests Pack £29.99 (SERU + Topographical): launch prices, not on sale yet
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