Uber driver sues TfL over licence renewal delays

Uber driver Julius Mugabo is pursuing a legal challenge against Transport for London (TfL) in the high court, alleging that delays in renewing his private hire licence led to substantial financial hardship and fears of eviction. Mr Mugabo, 55, has been licensed by TfL since 2016 and requires his licence to be renewed every three years to continue working.

Financial Strain and Personal Impact

Mr Mugabo stated that his licence expired at the end of March 2026, and he only received his renewed licence after initiating legal action. He reported that TfL repeatedly requested documentation he believed he had already provided. The delays, he explained, meant he struggled to meet his financial obligations. He accumulated £3,000 in tax owed to HMRC, which increased to £20,000 due to penalties and interest. His landlord also threatened eviction due to difficulties in paying rent, although his home was ultimately not lost. Mr Mugabo told The Guardian that he was bringing the case to help other drivers who have experienced similar difficulties.

The high court action contends that TfL breached its legal duties by failing to process private hire vehicle licence renewals in a timely manner. In a ruling that granted a full judicial review hearing, Mr Justice Sweeting observed that the delay resulted in 'immediate and serious consequences for [Mugabo] and his family'. TfL has conceded that the processing of Mr Mugabo's application did not adhere to its standard procedures.

Wider Impact on Drivers

The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which supports Mr Mugabo’s legal challenge, stated that many of its members have been affected by TfL's licence processing delays. According to data obtained by the Conservatives, approximately 18,000 of London's 100,000 private hire drivers have received 'goodwill' payments ranging from £300 to £500 due to such delays. Alex Marshall, president of the IWGB, commented that drivers have suffered financial losses, including depleted savings, loss of homes, and mounting debts, as a result of the system's failures.

Ahmed Aydeed of Deighton Pierce Glynn solicitors, representing Mr Mugabo, highlighted that drivers working without a renewed licence risk criminal prosecution. He added that any public authority causing such hardship to working-class individuals is 'not fit for purpose', particularly during the current cost of living crisis.

A TfL spokesperson confirmed awareness of the judicial review claim and stated that the organisation is awaiting the hearing date.