The TLC exam tests your knowledge of New York City taxi rules, not driving skill
The TLC (Taxi and Limousine Commission) driver license exam is a written test that covers New York City taxi regulations, passenger safety, and driver responsibilities. You take it after you pass your road test and before you can legally drive a yellow cab or for-hire vehicle in the city. The exam is not about how well you drive — it is about knowing the rules you must follow as a professional driver.
The test has 50 multiple-choice questions. You need to answer at least 40 correctly to pass. The questions come from the TLC Driver's Manual, which covers topics like fare rules, accessibility requirements for passengers with disabilities, drug and alcohol policies, and what to do if a passenger refuses to pay. You have two hours to complete the exam.
You can take the exam at any of the TLC's testing locations in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. You must bring a valid photo ID and your appointment confirmation. If you fail, you can retake the exam, but you must wait at least 24 hours before your next attempt.
Key Takeaways
- The TLC exam is a 50-question written test covering taxi rules and passenger safety, not driving ability.
- You need a score of at least 80 percent (40 out of 50 questions correct) to pass.
- The TLC Driver's Manual is the official study material, and all questions come directly from it.
- You must schedule your exam appointment in advance through the TLC website or by phone, and bring a valid photo ID on test day.
- If you fail, you can retake the exam after waiting 24 hours, with no limit on the number of attempts.
What the TLC Driver's Manual covers
The TLC Driver's Manual is a free document you can read from the TLC website or pick up at any TLC office. It is about 100 pages and organized by topic. Every question on the exam comes from material in this manual, so studying it is the most direct way to prepare.
The manual covers fare calculation (how much to charge for different types of trips), the rules for picking up and dropping off passengers, accessibility requirements for riders with disabilities, and what you must do if a passenger becomes ill or violent. It also explains the TLC's drug and alcohol policy, which prohibits any use before or during your shift, and the rules around accepting payment and handling disputes over fares.
A large section covers passenger rights and driver responsibilities. This includes rules about refusing service (you cannot refuse based on race, religion, or destination within the city), how to handle lost and found items, and what to do if a passenger leaves without paying. The manual also covers vehicle maintenance requirements and what happens if your vehicle fails inspection.
How to study for the exam
Most people study the TLC Driver's Manual by reading it section by section and taking notes on key points. The TLC does not publish official practice tests, but many third-party websites and apps offer sample questions based on the manual. These can help you get used to the question format, but remember that the actual exam questions come only from the official manual.
Focus your study time on the sections that appear most frequently on the exam: fare rules, passenger safety, accessibility requirements, and driver conduct. Read each section carefully, because the exam questions often test specific details — for example, the exact procedure for handling a passenger dispute or the specific accessibility features your vehicle must have.
Set aside at least two to three weeks to study if you are new to the material. Read through the manual once to get the big picture, then go back through it a second time and highlight or underline the details you need to remember. Many drivers find it helpful to study with a partner or in a group, so you can quiz each other on key points.
Scheduling your exam appointment
You schedule your TLC exam appointment through the TLC's online portal or by calling their office. You cannot walk in without an appointment. The TLC has testing locations in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn, and you can choose which location works best for your schedule.
Appointments fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons, so book as soon as you are ready to test. You will receive a confirmation email or letter with your exam date, time, and location. Arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have time to check in and get settled before the exam begins.
If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, you can do so through the same portal or by calling the TLC office. Some locations allow you to reschedule online up to a certain number of days before your exam date.
What happens on exam day
When you arrive at the testing location, you will check in at the front desk and show your photo ID and appointment confirmation. A staff member will verify your information and direct you to the testing room. You will be seated at a computer terminal where you will take the exam.
The exam is administered on a computer. You will see one question at a time on the screen, and you select your answer by clicking on the option you think is correct. You can move back and forth between questions if you want to review or change an answer before you submit. The system will tell you when you have 15 minutes left, so you know how much time remains.
Once you submit your exam, the computer will when ready tell you whether you passed or failed and show you your score. If you passed, you will receive a passing notice that you can use to move forward with your TLC license process. If you failed, you will get a report showing which topics you missed the most questions on, so you know where to focus your study time before your next attempt.
What to bring and what not to bring
Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bring your appointment confirmation, either printed or on your phone. That is all you need. The testing center provides everything else.
Do not bring study materials, phones, or other devices into the testing room. The TLC does not allow these items during the exam. You will be asked to put your phone away before you enter. If you are caught using a phone or other device during the exam, your test will be cancelled and you will not be refunded.
Do not bring food or drinks into the testing room, though you can usually eat or drink in the waiting area before your exam starts. If you need to use the restroom during the exam, you can ask a staff member, but the clock keeps running while you are away from your seat.
Retaking the exam if you do not pass
If you score below 40 out of 50, you did not pass and will need to retake the exam. You must wait at least 24 hours before you can schedule your next attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the exam, but each attempt costs a fee (the fee amount varies and is set by the TLC).
When you get your failing score report, it will show you which topics had the most questions you missed. Use that information to focus your next round of studying. Go back to those sections in the TLC Driver's Manual and read them more carefully. If you missed questions about fare rules, for example, spend extra time on that section before your next test.
Many drivers pass on their second or third attempt after more focused study. Do not get discouraged if you do not pass the first time — the exam is designed to make sure drivers know the rules well enough to serve passengers safely and fairly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a calculator or notes during the exam?
No. The exam is closed-book and closed-note. You cannot bring study materials, calculators, or any reference materials into the testing room. You are expected to answer all questions from memory based on your study of the TLC Driver's Manual.
What language is the exam offered in?
The TLC offers the exam in English and several other languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Russian, and Haitian Creole. When you schedule your appointment, you can select your preferred language. The TLC Driver's Manual is also available in multiple languages on their website.
How long does it take to get my results?
You get your results when ready after you finish the exam. The computer tells you right away whether you passed or failed and shows your score. If you passed, you can print your passing notice on the spot or have it emailed to you.
What if I have a disability and need testing accommodations?
Contact the TLC before your exam date to request accommodations. The TLC can provide extra time, a separate testing room, a reader, or other adjustments depending on your needs. You will need to provide documentation of your disability. Call the TLC office or visit their website to start the request process.
Do I have to pass the TLC exam to drive for Uber or Lyft?
No. The TLC exam is required only if you want to drive a yellow cab or work for a TLC-licensed for-hire service. Uber and Lyft drivers in New York do not need to pass the TLC exam, though they must meet other requirements set by those companies.