New TLC Driver License Course (3-Day): What Applicants Need to Know

If you’re planning to become a professional driver in New York City—whether it’s for a yellow taxi, green taxi, or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft—the New TLC Driver License Course is one of the most important steps in your licensing journey. Often referred to as the 3-Day Course or the 24-Hour Course, this mandatory training program helps prepare new applicants for the TLC Driver License Exam, which you must pass before receiving your license.

This course runs for three days, with eight hours of classroom instruction per day, and provides valuable information about TLC regulations, vehicle requirements, and driver professionalism. By completing it, you take a major step toward qualifying as a TLC-licensed driver in New York City.

Who Must Take the TLC 3-Day Course

The 3-Day Course is required for applicants who want to drive in any of the following TLC-licensed categories:

  • Yellow Taxi
  • Green Taxi
  • For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) — including Uber, Lyft, Black Car, or Livery services

This requirement ensures all new drivers receive consistent, high-quality training before joining the TLC-regulated transportation industry.

However, commuter van drivers and paratransit drivers are not required to take this specific course. Each category of TLC license has its own set of requirements, but for yellow, green, and for-hire vehicle applicants, the 3-day course is mandatory.

When You Need to Take the Course

Applicants must complete the 3-Day Course before taking the TLC Driver License Exam. Once you finish the course, you will receive an email with a link to register for your exam.

The entire TLC Driver License application process—including completing this course and passing the exam—must be done within 90 days of submitting your online application.

This timeline is strict, so planning ahead is crucial. If you miss the 90-day deadline, your application will be denied, and you’ll have to reapply from the beginning.

To stay on track, applicants are advised to complete the 3-day course as early as possible, preferably within the first 30 days after submitting their application. This leaves enough time to register for and pass the exam comfortably.

How to Register for the Course

To register for the TLC Driver License Course, you must go through a TLC-Authorized School.
You can find the official list on the TLC website under the “List of TLC Authorized Schools” section.

It’s important to note that you must file your TLC Driver License application first.
Schools will not allow you to register for the 3-day course unless you have a valid TLC application number.

Here’s a key timeline detail:

  • You must register for the course no later than five (5) days before your application expires.
  • Schools will not register applicants after the 85th day of their application period.

By registering early, you’ll ensure you have enough time to complete the course, schedule your exam, and meet all TLC requirements.

What You’ll Learn During the Course

The 3-day course is structured to cover all the essential areas new TLC drivers must understand before operating a TLC-licensed vehicle in New York City. The topics include:

  • Navigating TLC online platforms such as LARS and TLC UP
  • How to obtain and maintain a TLC Driver License in good standing
  • Key differences between TLC-licensed industries and vehicle types
  • Vehicle requirements and maintenance responsibilities
  • Professionalism and respectful interaction with passengers
  • Customer service skills and how to prevent service refusals
  • Proper conduct and compliance with TLC laws and rules
  • Best safe driving practices
  • How to avoid violations and penalties

These subjects not only prepare you for the TLC Driver License Exam but also teach you the standards of professionalism expected from all TLC drivers across the city.

Course Language Options and Reporting

The TLC ensures accessibility for applicants from diverse backgrounds by offering the course in multiple languages, including Arabic, Bengali, English, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, and Urdu.

After you complete the course, your selected school will notify the TLC directly that you have finished the requirement. This reporting step is automatic—you don’t have to submit any separate confirmation to the TLC yourself.

Important Reminders to Avoid Application Denial

The TLC strictly enforces application deadlines and course completion requirements. Here’s how to make sure your application stays active and gets approved:

  • Apply for your TLC license before registering for the 3-day course.
  • Register as soon as you receive your TLC application number—don’t wait until the last few weeks.
  • Complete the course at least 60 days before your 90-day deadline to leave enough time to take and pass the exam.
  • Remember, all requirements (application, course, and exam) must be completed within 90 days of your initial application date.

If you fail to complete the process within this timeframe, the TLC will deny your application, and you’ll need to reapply from the beginning.

Final Step: Stay on the Right Track

The 3-day course is an essential step on The Road to a TLC Driver License. It prepares you not just for the exam but for the responsibilities of being a professional driver in New York City. By registering early, attending a TLC-authorized school, and completing the course on time, you’ll move one step closer to becoming a licensed TLC driver and starting your driving career the right way.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. All rules, procedures, and requirements are subject to change by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission. Always refer to the official TLC website for the most current and authoritative information.

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