What to Do If Your TLC Insurance Policy Lapses in New York City

 

Steps to Follow If Your TLC Insurance Policy Lapsed in NYC


If you’re a TLC-licensed driver in New York City — your insurance coverage is one of the most important parts of staying active and legal on the road. But what happens if your TLC insurance policy lapses?


It happens more often than you think. Maybe a payment didn’t go through, or your broker didn’t follow up in time. Whatever the reason, a lapse in coverage is something you need to take seriously — and fix fast.


Here’s what you need to know if your TLC insurance policy lapses and your plate gets suspended or surrendered.


🚨 What Happens When Your TLC Insurance Lapses?

The moment your TLC insurance expires or is canceled, your insurance company reports it to both the New York DMV and the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). This can lead to:

  • Immediate suspension of your TLC vehicle license
  • Your TLC plate being surrendered or suspended
  • Your registration being flagged or put on hold
  • Fines and penalties that build up daily

You cannot legally drive for any TLC-approved platform (Uber, Lyft, etc.) if your policy is not active. Driving without proper insurance is a serious offense that can lead to vehicle impoundment, license suspension, and hefty fines.



🚗 Can I Get My Plate Back?

Yes — but only after you’ve handled your insurance and followed the proper process. If your plate has been surrendered or suspended due to a policy lapse, you’ll need to reactivate everything the right way. The sooner you take action, the easier it is to avoid penalties or long delays.


✅ What To Do Next (Step-by-Step)

1. Get New TLC Insurance

Your first move should be to contact a licensed insurance brokerage that handles TLC policies — like Mega Insurance Brokerage. We help you get a valid policy in place quickly, based on TLC requirements.

2. Submit Proof to the TLC

Once your policy is active, the insurance company will file it with the DMV and TLC electronically. You may also need to send proof of coverage (like your FH-1 and declarations page) to TLC by email.

3. Pay Any Fines or Fees

If your plate or license was suspended, you may owe civil penalties — these are based on how long your policy was inactive. The DMV may also charge a reinstatement fee.

4. Reactivate Your TLC Vehicle

After insurance is active and fees are paid, your license and plate can be reinstated. If your plate was surrendered, you may need to visit the DMV to reissue it.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t Wait

Every day that passes after a policy lapse can cost you money — both in fines and lost earnings. Even if you’re not actively driving right now, letting your TLC insurance lapse can create bigger problems down the road when you’re ready to work again.


🧾 Need Help? Come to Mega Insurance Brokerage

At Mega Insurance Brokerage, we specialize in helping TLC drivers get back on the road. If your policy lapsed or your plate got suspended, don’t panic — we’ll walk you through the process, step by step. No hassle, no confusion.


Visit us at 32-47 57th St, Woodside, NY 11377, or call ‪+1 212-721-0001‬. Let’s get you covered and back in business.


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