What a TLC driver license is and who needs one
A TLC driver license is issued by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission and is required to drive a yellow taxi, green cab (street hail livery), or for-hire vehicle like Uber or Lyft within New York City. You cannot legally pick up passengers for money without one, even if you have a regular New York State driver license.
The TLC license is separate from your state driver license. It proves you have passed a background check, a knowledge test about city streets and passenger safety rules, and a drug screening. The process takes several weeks from start to finish.
You need a TLC license if you want to drive any type of for-hire vehicle in the five boroughs. This includes yellow medallion taxis, green cabs, black cars, and app-based services. If you drive for personal use only, you do not need one.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid New York State driver license, pass a background check, and be at least 19 years old to get a TLC license.
- The TLC requires you to complete a drug screening, pass a written test on city geography and passenger safety, and attend a fingerprinting appointment.
- You explore through the TLC's online system or in person at their office in Long Island City, Queens, and the entire process usually takes four to six weeks.
- The TLC license costs money for the initial process and renewal fees, which vary depending on the type of vehicle you plan to drive.
- You must renew your TLC license every two years, and renewal requires another background check and drug screening.
Step 1: Gather your documents before you start
Before you begin the process, collect the documents the TLC will ask for. You need a valid New York State driver license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof of your address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). The address proof must match the address on your driver license, or you will need to update your license first.
You also need to know your driving history. The TLC will run a check on your record, so be prepared to explain any violations, accidents, or suspensions. If you have been convicted of certain crimes, you may be disqualified — the TLC maintains a list of offenses that bar you from getting a license.
Have your vehicle information ready if you already own or lease the car you plan to drive. You will need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), license plate number, and proof of insurance. If you do not have a vehicle yet, you can still start the process process.
Step 2: Complete the online pre-process or visit in person
The TLC accepts applications through their website at tlc.nyc.gov. Go to the driver license section and select the type of license you need: yellow taxi, green cab, or for-hire vehicle. Fill in your personal information, driver license number, and contact details. The online form will ask about your driving history and any criminal convictions.
If you prefer to explore in person, you can visit the TLC office at 33-35 Steinway Street in Long Island City, Queens. Bring all your documents with you. The office is open Monday through Friday, and you should arrive early because there is often a wait. You can also call 311 to ask about current wait times or to schedule an appointment if the TLC offers that option.
After you submit your pre-process online or in person, the TLC will review it and send you a notice with your next steps. This usually takes one to two weeks. Keep this notice — you will need it for your drug screening and fingerprinting appointments.
Step 3: Complete your drug screening and fingerprinting
Once your pre-process is approved, the TLC will send you instructions for a drug screening. You must go to an approved testing facility and complete a urine drug test. The TLC provides a list of approved labs on their website. You pay for the test yourself, and it usually costs between $30 and $50. Bring the authorization letter the TLC sent you and a photo ID.
You will also need to get fingerprinted for a background check. The TLC will direct you to an approved fingerprinting location, usually a police precinct or private fingerprinting service. Bring your photo ID and the authorization letter. Fingerprinting is free at NYPD locations but may cost $10 to $20 at private vendors.
Both the drug screening and fingerprinting must be completed within a certain timeframe — usually 30 days from when the TLC sends you the notice. If you miss the important date, you will have to restart the process process.
Step 4: Study for and take the TLC written test
After your drug screening and fingerprinting are cleared, the TLC will schedule you for a written test. The test covers New York City street geography, traffic laws, passenger safety rules, and TLC regulations. You can study using the TLC's official study guide, which is free and available on their website at tlc.nyc.gov.
The test has 50 multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 70 percent to pass. You get two hours to complete it. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you will have to pay the retesting fee.
The test is given at the TLC office in Long Island City. You will receive a notice with your test date and time. Bring a photo ID and your authorization letter. Arrive at least 15 minutes early. You cannot bring study materials, phones, or other devices into the testing room.
Step 5: Pay your fees and receive your license
Once you pass the written test, the TLC will notify you about payment. The cost of a TLC driver license varies depending on the type of license and how long you want it to last. As of now, fees range from around $200 to $600 for an initial license, but you should confirm the current fee on the TLC website because these amounts change. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or money order.
After payment is received and processed, the TLC will issue your license. You can pick it up in person at the TLC office, or they may mail it to you. Your license will be valid for two years from the date of issue. The TLC will send you a renewal notice before your license expires.
Once you have your TLC license in hand, you are legally permitted to drive for hire in New York City. You still need a valid state driver license, current vehicle registration, and proof of insurance to operate a vehicle.
What to do if you are denied or need to renew
If the TLC denies your process, they will send you a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include failing the background check, a positive drug test, or a disqualifying driving record. You have the right to request a hearing to appeal the decision. The TLC will explain how to request a hearing in the denial letter.
If you are approved and your license expires, you must renew it before you can continue driving for hire. Renewal requires another drug screening, background check, and payment of a renewal fee. The TLC will send you a renewal notice 90 days before your license expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial process but usually faster.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot drive for hire until it is reinstated. Suspensions can happen for violations like driving with a suspended state license, accumulating too many traffic violations, or failing to maintain insurance. Contact the TLC directly if you need information about your specific case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the entire TLC process process take?
From the time you submit your pre-process to receiving your license usually takes four to six weeks. The timeline depends on how quickly you complete the drug screening and fingerprinting, how fast the background check clears, and when the TLC schedules your written test. Some applicants finish in three weeks; others take eight weeks or longer.
Can I drive for Uber or Lyft with just a regular New York State driver license?
No. Even though Uber and Lyft are app-based services, New York City law requires all drivers who pick up passengers for money to have a TLC for-hire vehicle license. Driving without one is illegal and can result in fines and vehicle impoundment.
What disqualifies you from getting a TLC license?
Certain criminal convictions, a positive drug test, or a serious driving record can disqualify you. The TLC maintains a list of crimes that bar you from licensure, including felonies and crimes involving dishonesty. You can review the full list on the TLC website or call 311 to ask about your specific situation.
Do I need to own a vehicle before I explore for a TLC license?
No. You can explore for a TLC license before you own or lease a vehicle. However, you will need to provide vehicle information before you can actually start driving. Some drivers explore first, then lease or purchase a car once they have their license.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test, but you will have to pay a retesting fee. The TLC will schedule your next test date. You can use the study guide to prepare and retake the test as many times as you need, though each attempt costs money.