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Black Car Fund Benefits for TLC Drivers

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  The Black Car Fund (BCF) is a non-profit organization created by New York State to provide workers’ compensation insurance and additional benefits to drivers in the black car industry. This includes drivers for popular services like Lyft, Uber , and the more traditional black car bases operating across the city. Workers’ compensation insurance ensures that eligible drivers have financial protection if they are injured while on the job. But th e Black Car Fund goes further, offering valuable health and wellness benefits at no cost to drivers. These extra services are funded entirely by a small surcharge that passengers pay on every ride, meaning drivers do not pay out-of-pocket for these benefits. What Is the Black Car Fund? The Black Car Fund was designed to support New York’s professional drivers by offering benefits that are often unavailable to independent contractors in other industries. Since many black car drivers work on a per-trip basis and are not considered employee...

What to Do If Your TLC Driver’s License Is Lost or Stolen

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If your TLC driver’s license has been lost or stolen, it is important to follow the correct procedure to get a replacement and continue driving legally in New York City. The Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) has a specific process for replacing lost or stolen driver licenses that all TLC drivers must follow. Step 1: Make an Appointment at the TLC Licensing Facility To begin the replacement process, you need to schedule an appointment to visit the TLC Licensing Facility located in Long Island City, Queens. The TLC requires drivers to make an appointment through their online appointment system before coming to the facility. Walk-in visits without an appointment are generally not accepted. You can make your appointment by using the official TLC online appointment system. Scheduling ahead helps ensure your visit goes smoothly and you can be seen promptly. Step 2: Review the Credential Replacement Instruction Sheet and Bring Required Documents Before your appointment, carefully review the...

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Training: A Must for NYC TLC Drivers

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  If you're a TLC-licensed driver in New York City—whether you drive a yellow cab, green cab, Uber, Lyft, or other For-Hire Vehicles—staying compliant with regulations is essential to keeping your license active. One major requirement is completing the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Training Course . This course ensures you’re prepared to safely assist passengers with disabilities and maintain your eligibility to operate under the TLC. Why Is WAV Training Required? The NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) requires WAV training to make sure all drivers can: Assist passengers who use wheelchairs or mobility devices Secure wheelchairs and belongings safely Provide respectful and professional service during transport If you do not complete the required training, your TLC license will not be issued or renewed. Who Needs to Take the WAV Course? 1. New TLC Applicants If you're applying for a TLC license for the first time, you must take the WAV training after submitting your a...

What to Do If a Passenger Refuses to Pay or Disputes the Fare

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  What to Do If a Passenger Refuses to Pay or Disputes the Fare As a licensed NYC TLC driver, you may encounter passengers who refuse to pay or dispute the fare. The Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) has strict rules for these situations. Below is the exact, legally correct process based on 2025 NYC TLC regulations and rideshare policies (Uber, Lyft, etc.). 1. Stay Calm & Professional (TLC Rule: No Aggressive Behavior) Do not argue or block the passenger from exiting — this can lead to a TLC complaint. Politely ask for payment and explain the fare breakdown (metered rate, tolls, surcharges). If the passenger becomes aggressive, disengage and call 911 if necessary. 2. Verify the Fare & Payment Issue For Yellow & Green Taxis (Street Hails) ✅ Meter must be running correctly (TLC Rule §58–35). If the passenger disputes: Show the printed receipt (required by TLC). Explain any extra charges (tolls, night surcharge, rush hour fee). If they still refuse, do not physically s...

How to Add or Remove a Vehicle from Your TLC Insurance Policy in NYC

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  If you’re a TLC-licensed driver in New York City, keeping your insurance policy up to date is not just smart — it’s a legal requirement. Whether you’re replacing your old TLC car, switching plates, or temporarily removing a vehicle from service, you must follow the proper steps with your insurance provider and the TLC (Taxi and Limousine Commission). In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to add or remove a vehicle from your TLC policy, including key info from the TLC’s official guidelines. Why You Need to Update Your TLC Policy Your TLC license is tied to a specific vehicle and plate number. Any change — like buying a new car, retiring an old one, or changing your TLC plates — must be reflected in your insurance documents and registered with the TLC. Failing to do so can result in: Fines or license suspension Delays in plate issuance or renewals System mismatches that flag your car as uninsured That’s why it’s essential to file the correct documents wi...

What to Do If a Passenger Vomits in Your TLC Car

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As a TLC (Taxi and Limousine Commission) driver in New York City, dealing with passenger vomit in your car is an unfortunate but common challenge. Whether due to motion sickness, intoxication, or illness, vomit can cause significant cleanup hassles, unpleasant odors, and even lost earnings if not handled properly. Knowing how to respond—from immediate cleanup to securing cleaning fees and reporting the incident—can save you time, money, and stress. In this guide, we’ll cover: Immediate Steps to Take When a Passenger Vomits How to Charge a Cleaning Fee (and How Much to Charge) Uber & Lyft Cleaning Fee Policies (Updated Details) TLC Reporting Requirements How to Avoid Disputes with Passengers Over Fees Preventive Measures to Reduce Future Incidents Let’s dive in. 1. Immediate Steps to Take When a Passenger Vomits Stop Safely and Assess the Situation If a passenger vomits in your car, pull over safely when possible. Check if the passenger needs medical attention—some riders may be sev...

Top 5 Things Riders Judge Uber & Lyft Drivers On (And How to Improve Your Ratings)

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NYC TLC Drivers: Boost Your Tips & Reviews with These Passenger-Approved Tips   Whether you're driving for Uber, Lyft, or a black car service in NYC, every ride is more than just a trip—it's a customer service experience. Passengers silently evaluate everything from your greeting to your car’s cleanliness, and these small details determine your ratings, tips, and repeat business.   In a competitive market like New York, standing out means mastering the little things. So, what do riders care about most?   Here are the top 5 things passengers judge you on—and exactly how to impress them every time.   1. Your First Impression (The Make-or-Break Moment)   ✅ What Riders Notice:   - Did you greet them warmly?   - Were you professional or distracted?    🚗 How to Win Them Over:   - Start with a friendly "Hello!" or "How’s your day?"   - Match their energy—some want conversation, others prefe...