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If you live in NYC, you must know there are 3 types of taxi cabs. One is the yellow medallion taxies that pick passengers in all 5 boroughs. Second is the Street-hail Liveries, also known as green cabs, are For-Hire Vehicles that are permitted to accept street-hails. In exchange, Street-Hail Liveries may not operate in the Hail Exclusionary Zone, south of West 110th St and East 96th St, and last but not the least black car service that you can sschedule or get picked on demand when ever you want or where you are in the all 5 boroughs. In case you want to know how to become a TLC driver in New York, this guide has you covered.
How to Become a TLC Driver in New York
Becoming a ride-share driver is not for everyone, you must meet certain TLC driver requirements to take this job and start earning. Follow these steps to become a TLC driver in NYC:
The first and foremost requirement is to get a license. Your driver’s license won’t be enough. You are going to need the taxi driver’s license issued by the TLC. Normally, this license is issued for a 1 year (which is probation period), and then it’s renewed for 3 years.
To apply for this license, you must be at least 19 years old. You must have a valid Social Security Number when you submit your application, no more than 6 points on your DMV license within a 15 month period back from your most recent violation date, no outstanding tickets, parking violations or fines. To check all fitness rules visit TLC FITNESS RULES. To obtain TLC license, visit TLC office location in Long Island City, NY or apply online at TLC's Website. To check the application requirement and cost visit TLC's Website.
You must prepare all the required documents.
Visit the TLC website to get information and to apply online for TLC license
Potential drivers have to show proof that they don’t have any outstanding fine or tickets with the DMV. You will also be required to fill the child support certification form. This is mandatory even if you don’t have a child.
TLC recommends attending an approved taxi school for 24 hours course or at least 80 hours to improve the chances of passing the taxi exam. The course taught at the taxi school already covers everything a taxi driver must know when he is on the road.
To become a taxi driver & earn money, you must also pass an English proficiency test and a written exam.
Once all of the above steps involved in how to become a licensed TLC driver in New York are complete, it’s time to gather all your documents and submit them.
Make sure you have completed all the required information on the TLC's website:
Mail all these TLC documents into the TLC mailing address.
Last but not least, once everything gets approved, you must complete another mandatory course called wheelchair accessible vehicle training course. This fee for taking this course is $60.
This is all information you need on how to become a cab driver in New York. Good luck with getting started!