How to Spot and Avoid Illegal Rides in NYC
New York City’s streets are full of taxis, rideshares, and car services — but not every ride is safe or legal. If your trip begins in NYC, both the driver and the vehicle must be licensed by the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). If they aren’t, the ride is illegal — and you could be putting your safety and your wallet at risk. Illegal rides are often uninsured, unsafe, and untraceable. Some drivers don’t even have a valid DMV license, and they may charge far more than the legal fare. Here’s how to protect yourself and ride with confidence. How to Tell If a Ride Is Illegal 1. The Driver or Their Partner Is Soliciting You If someone approaches you offering a ride, that’s your first red flag. TLC-licensed drivers are not allowed to ask people if they need a ride. Yellow and green cabs must be hailed on the street, through a taxi stand, or via an app. For all other services, the trip must be prearranged through a licensed app or dispatcher. Even if the car and driver have a ...