What you need to become a licensed cab driver in New York
To drive a yellow taxi in New York City, you must obtain a Medallion Driver License from the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). This is different from a regular commercial driver's license — it is a separate credential that proves you meet TLC standards and have passed their required tests. You cannot legally pick up passengers for hire without it, even if you have a commercial license from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
The process involves passing a written exam, a background check, and a medical evaluation. You will also need to complete a TLC-approved training course. The entire process typically takes four to eight weeks from start to finish, though this varies depending on how quickly you schedule your appointments and how soon you pass the exam.
New York State requires you to hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or a regular driver's license before you can get a Medallion Driver License. If you do not have one yet, you will need to obtain that from the DMV first.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass a TLC written exam, medical exam, and background check to get a Medallion Driver License.
- Completion of a TLC-approved training course is required before you can take the licensing exam.
- You need a valid New York State driver's license before you start the TLC process.
- The TLC processes applications through their office in Long Island City, Queens, and you must visit in person for testing and fingerprinting.
- Once licensed, you can drive for any taxi company that holds a TLC medallion, or you can lease a medallion yourself if you meet additional requirements.
Step-by-step process to get your Medallion Driver License
Step 1: Get your New York State driver's license. Visit your local DMV office and pass the written and road tests if you do not already have one. You need this before the TLC will accept your process.
Step 2: Enroll in a TLC-approved training course. The TLC maintains a list of approved schools on its website at tlc.ny.gov. These courses cover taxi regulations, passenger safety, New York City geography, and customer service. Most courses run 24 hours and can be completed over a few days or spread across several weeks. You will pay the school directly — costs vary but typically range from $200 to $400.
Step 3: Complete the course and obtain your certificate. You must attend all sessions and pass any course exam. The school will give you a certificate of completion, which you will need to bring to the TLC.
Step 4: Submit your TLC process. Go to the TLC office at 2 Northside Piers, Long Island City, Queens, NY 11101. Bring your driver's license, certificate of completion from your training course, and proof of Social Security number. You will pay a non-refundable process fee (the amount changes annually; check tlc.ny.gov for current fees). The TLC will take your fingerprints for a background check at this visit.
Step 5: Pass the written exam. The TLC will schedule you for a written test covering taxi regulations, traffic laws, and New York City street knowledge. You have up to three attempts to pass. The exam is offered in multiple languages. Study materials are available on the TLC website.
Step 6: Complete your medical exam. You must pass a physical exam by a TLC-approved physician. The TLC provides a list of approved doctors. You pay the doctor directly for this exam.
Step 7: Receive your license. Once you pass the exam, pass the medical exam, and clear the background check, the TLC will issue your Medallion Driver License. This is valid for two years.
Background check and medical requirements
The TLC conducts a thorough background investigation that includes checking your driving record, criminal history, and immigration status. You must be at least 19 years old and a legal resident of the United States. Certain criminal convictions will disqualify you; the TLC publishes a detailed list of offenses on its website.
Your driving record must show that you are a safe driver. The TLC looks at traffic violations, accidents, and suspensions. A single violation does not automatically disqualify you, but a pattern of unsafe driving may. If you have questions about your specific record, contact the TLC directly before explore.
The medical exam checks your vision, hearing, and overall fitness to drive. You must have correctable vision of at least 20/40 in each eye. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them while driving and keep them in the vehicle. The exam also screens for conditions that would make you unsafe to operate a taxi, such as untreated seizure disorders or severe sleep apnea.
The written exam: what to expect
The TLC written exam has 50 multiple-choice questions and you have two hours to complete it. You must score at least 70 percent to pass. The test covers five main areas: taxi regulations and TLC rules, traffic laws and safe driving, New York City geography and landmarks, passenger rights and driver responsibilities, and vehicle maintenance and safety.
The geography section is often the most challenging for new drivers. You are expected to know major streets, neighborhoods, landmarks, and how to navigate between them. The TLC provides a study guide that includes a map and list of key locations. Many drivers study this guide for two to four weeks before taking the exam.
If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam. There is a fee each time you test. You must wait at least one week between attempts. Most people pass on the second or third try if they study the TLC materials between attempts.
Renewing your Medallion Driver License
Your Medallion Driver License is valid for two years from the date of issue. To renew, you must submit a renewal process to the TLC at least 30 days before your license expires. You will need to pass another medical exam and pay a renewal fee. You do not need to retake the written exam or the training course to renew.
If your license expires, you cannot legally drive a taxi. You must reapply through the full process if you let it lapse for more than 30 days. The TLC may waive the training course requirement if you renew within 30 days of expiration, but this is not may provide.
Working as a licensed taxi driver
Once you have your Medallion Driver License, you can work for any taxi company that operates in New York City and holds a TLC medallion. Most drivers work as independent contractors or lease a medallion from a company. Some companies hire drivers as employees, though this is less common.
If you lease a medallion, you pay the company a daily or weekly fee and keep the rest of your fares. If you work for a company as an employee, you receive a salary or commission. Either way, you are responsible for maintaining your vehicle, paying for gas, and following all TLC rules. The TLC conducts regular inspections of licensed taxis to may support they meet safety and cleanliness standards.
You must renew your license every two years and maintain a clean driving record. Serious violations of TLC rules — such as refusing passengers, overcharging, or unsafe driving — can result in suspension or revocation of your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a commercial driver's license to get a Medallion Driver License?
No. You need either a regular New York State driver's license or a commercial driver's license. A regular license is sufficient. You do not need to upgrade to a commercial license unless you plan to drive other types of commercial vehicles.
How much does it cost to get a Medallion Driver License?
The TLC process fee varies annually and is listed on tlc.ny.gov. Training courses typically cost $200 to $400. The medical exam cost depends on which doctor you use but is usually $50 to $150. Budget $500 to $700 total for the entire process, not including the cost of obtaining your driver's license if you do not have one yet.
Can I take the TLC exam in a language other than English?
Yes. The TLC offers the written exam in multiple languages including Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Russian, and others. When you submit your process, indicate which language you need. You must still be able to communicate with passengers in English or another language they speak.
What happens if I fail the written exam?
You can retake it. You must wait at least one week between attempts and pay a fee each time you test. You have up to three attempts included with your process. If you fail all three, you must reapply and pay the process fee again.
Can I drive for Uber or Lyft with a Medallion Driver License?
No. A Medallion Driver License is only for yellow taxis. Uber and Lyft drivers need a different license called a For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) license, which has separate requirements. You cannot use one license for both types of work.