General NYC TLC Rules
The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) has established a set of laws and regulations that apply to ride-share drivers operating in the city.
Some of the key requirements include:
- TLC License: All ride-share drivers must obtain a TLC license, which involves passing a background check and completing a training course.
- Vehicle Requirements: The TLC has established specific requirements for the vehicles used by ride-share drivers, including the model year, vehicle type, and inspection standards.
- Insurance: Ride-share drivers must have a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage, which is required by the TLC.
- Driver Hours and Rest Requirements: Ride-share drivers are required to take breaks after a certain number of hours of driving, and they must adhere to strict rest requirements to ensure they are alert and able to operate their vehicles safely.
- Fare Requirements: Ride-share drivers must follow fare rules established by the TLC, which include minimum and maximum pricing limits.
- Reporting Requirements: Ride-share drivers must report certain incidents to the TLC, including accidents and incidents involving passengers.
Non NYC Rideshare Drivers – What You Might Not Know
Any non-NYC rideshare driver will receive a ticket for picking up a passenger in NYC if they do not have the necessary licenses and permits to operate in the city.
To pick up passengers in New York City, rideshare drivers must have a TLC (Taxi and Limousine Commission) driver’s license and their vehicle must also be licensed with the TLC.
If a non-NYC rideshare driver is caught picking up passengers in NYC without the necessary licenses and permits, he/she may be issued a summons or ticket by the TLC or the New York City Police Department.
The ticket may result in fines or other penalties, and in some cases, the driver’s vehicle may be impounded.
All rideshare drivers need to ensure that they are operating legally and in compliance with local regulations before picking up passengers in any city.
A True Case
A single mom who works part-time as an Uber vehicle had picked up a fare in Long Island and dropped the passenger off at JFK airport. After dropping off the passenger, she was approached by a man who asked for a ride back to Long Island.
The woman agreed but little did she know that the man she was speaking to was an undercover TLC officer and she subsequently got a ticket.
What made matters worse, she missed court because her child was ill and she was hit with a $1500 civil fine and she had her license suspended.
So Be Warned!
If you do rideshare part-time or even full-time, please be cognizant of the TLC rules when in NYC. If you have any questions, please call Pat at 516-439-9442!