TLC Insurance: Your NYC Driving Guide

  Effective Date: October 1, 2025 Attention all for-hire vehicle drivers: If you hold an out-of-state driver's license and drive in New York City, the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) has announced a new mandatory procedure that affects you. Starting October 1, 2025 , all out-of-state applicants and current license holders must complete a new verification step with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain or maintain their TLC Driver's License. This process is mandatory for new applications, renewals, and even replacement licenses. Who Is Affected by This New Rule? This change applies to you if you are applying for a TLC Driver's License and your primary driver's license was issued by a state other than New York. Specifically: New applicants with an out-of-state driver's license Current TLC drivers with out-of-state licenses who are renewing their TLC license Any licensee with an out-of-state license requesting a replacement TLC Driver...

Your guide to navigating Workers' Compensation while maintaining your TLC license For-hire vehicle drivers in New York City—whether you're with Uber, Lyft, a yellow cab, or a livery service—your health and safety come first. If you get injured on the job, Workers' Compensation can provide financial support while you recover. But for TLC-licensed drivers, going on Workers' Compensation involves specific compliance steps with the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC).In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know: how to go on Workers' Compensation, what your responsibilities are while you're out of work, and how to return to driving once you're cleared by your doctor. What Is Workers' Compensation? Workers' Compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. For drivers, this could include injuries from accidents, repetitive stress issues, or even illnesses link...

  Life as a For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) driver in New York City is demanding. Whether you're planning an extended trip abroad, dealing with unexpected vehicle issues, or simply need a temporary pause, stepping away from the wheel shouldn't mean losing your hard-earned TLC license. Thankfully, the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) offers a solution: the Short-Term For-Hire Vehicle License Storage Program. This initiative allows active licensees to officially put their FHV license on hold, protecting their status while they take a necessary break. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the program, from eligibility to the step-by-step process for storing and reactivating your license. Summary: The TLC's Short-Term Storage Program allows you to put your FHV license on hold for up to 90 days once every two years without losing it. There's no cost to store your license, but you must meet specific requirements and follow the proper procedures. ...

Hey NYC drivers! Let's talk about something that seems small but can cause huge headaches: your license plates. We've all seen those blue and white Empire plates slowly peeling apart. While it might look like just a cosmetic issue, for a TLC driver, it's a fast track to a costly ticket and a failed inspection. Ignoring a peeling, cracked, or faded plate is a risk you can't afford. The good news? Replacing it is straightforward once you know the official process. We've gone straight to the source—the NYS DMV website—to break down exactly what you need to do to stay legal and keep your wheels turning. Is Your Plate Peeling or Just Damaged? First, know the difference. The DMV has a specific, free program for peeling (or "delaminating") plates, which is a known issue with certain Empire plate designs. Damage from an accident, rust, or fading is handled differently. Peeling/Delaminating: The clear coating and colors are flaking off the metal base. Damaged: ...

Every driver applying for or renewing a TLC license in New York City must complete drug testing as part of the licensing requirements. This rule applies to Uber, Lyft, Yellow Cab, Green Cab, Black Car, and Livery drivers. The drug test is designed to ensure public safety and to meet the legal standards set by the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). Below, we explain the details, process, approved testing locations, and important resources you should know. Who Needs to Take a TLC Drug Test? Any new driver applying for a TLC license is required to complete a drug test before their application can be approved. In addition, drivers renewing their licenses may also be asked to take the test depending on TLC rules. This includes drivers of all for-hire vehicles such as rideshare (Uber and Lyft), yellow and green taxis, black cars, and limousines. What Substances Are Tested? The drug test screens for commonly used controlled substances. TLC follows strict federal and state guidelines to ensu...

Staying compliant with NYC's Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) is a key part of your job as a professional driver. Whether you’re behind the wheel of an Uber, Lyft, yellow cab, green cab, or a street-hail livery (SHL), you’ll eventually need to visit the TLC in person. A crucial point to remember: almost all in-person transactions now require a scheduled appointment. Walking in without one will likely result in being turned away. This guide will walk you through the entire process: when you need an appointment, how to schedule it online, and what to bring to ensure your visit is quick and successful. When Do You Need a TLC Appointment? You must book an appointment online for these common transactions: Medallion (Yellow Cab) Transactions Transferring your current vehicle to another vehicle. Certifying a new medallion vehicle. Medallion Bulk Transactions (3-6 Medallions) For agents or individuals to submit multiple medallions at once for vehicle, plate, agent, or address updates. ...