An Uber driver is taking Transport for London (TfL) to the high court over delays in renewing his private hire vehicle licence, which he says caused him significant financial hardship. Julius Mugabo, 55, who has been licensed by TfL since 2016, alleges that the transport authority breached its legal obligations by not processing his renewal application in a timely manner.

Under the Private Hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998, drivers working through apps such as Uber and Bolt must have their licences renewed every three years by TfL to continue operating legally. Mugabo applied for his renewal late last year, but said TfL repeatedly requested documents he had already submitted, causing extensive delays. His licence expired at the end of March 2026, and he only received the renewed licence after initiating legal action.

The delays led Mugabo into thousands of pounds of debt. He owed HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) £3,000 in tax, but due to late payments and accumulating interest, the amount rose to £20,000. He also faced pressure from his landlord, who threatened eviction over unpaid rent, though Mugabo and his family ultimately avoided losing their home.

Mugabo is bringing the case as the first legal challenge of its kind against TfL on this issue, hoping to prevent similar hardship for other drivers. There are about 100,000 private hire drivers in London, and according to data obtained by the Conservative party, nearly 18,000 drivers have received "goodwill" payments between £300 and £500 due to licence renewal delays.

Mr Justice Sweeting has allowed the case to proceed to a full judicial review hearing, noting that the delays caused “immediate and serious consequences” for Mugabo and his family. The judge also acknowledged that TfL admitted its processing of Mugabo’s application fell below usual standards.

The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which represents many private hire drivers, has voiced strong criticism of TfL’s handling of licence renewals. Alex Marshall, IWGB president, said that the delays have led numerous drivers to fall into debt, lose their vehicles, or face eviction. The union argues TfL failed to act promptly when the crisis first emerged, resulting in drivers exhausting savings and enduring prolonged financial distress.

Ahmed Aydeed, solicitor for Mugabo, stated that TfL’s failure to issue renewal licences before expiry effectively strips drivers of their livelihoods. He also highlighted the legal risk for drivers who work without a valid licence, which can lead to criminal prosecution. Aydeed described TfL’s conduct as unacceptable, particularly amid the current cost of living challenges.

A TfL spokesperson said the authority is aware of the judicial review claim brought by Mugabo and is awaiting the hearing date, without commenting further on the specifics of the case.