SERU Is Open Book — Here's How to Use the Handbook Without Running Out of Time

"It's open book" is the most reassuring — and most misleading — thing people hear about SERU. Yes, you can refer to the Private Hire Driver's Handbook. No, that doesn't mean you can learn it on the day.

Why open book isn't a shortcut

You have roughly an hour for around 36 questions. That's under two minutes each, including reading, thinking and answering. Stop to search the handbook on every question and you'll run out of time before the end — and unanswered questions score nothing.

Use the handbook like a pro

1. Know the structure before you walk in. If you know which section covers safeguarding and which covers equality, a quick check takes seconds rather than minutes.
2. Answer what you know first. Go through confidently, and only reach for the handbook on a question you're genuinely unsure about.
3. Check details, not concepts. The handbook is ideal for confirming a specific rule. If you don't understand the concept, you won't find it fast enough under pressure.
4. Watch the clock. Leave yourself time to finish — a guessed answer can score, a blank one never does.

Practise the way you'll be tested

The best preparation is timed practice without leaning on notes, so the knowledge is in your head. Use the free SERU practice tests and the SERU questions and answers to find your weak spots, then read up on just those sections.

For the official handbook and current rules, go to Transport for London. SeruPass is an independent study app.