How to book a TLC inspection appointment

You schedule a TLC inspection appointment through the Taxi and Limousine Commission's online system or by calling their office directly. The process differs depending on whether you are inspecting a medallion taxi, for-hire vehicle (Uber, Lyft, etc.), or commuter van. You will need your vehicle's registration, VIN, current insurance card, and the TLC license number or process number before you start.

The TLC does not send inspection notices by mail — you are responsible for scheduling within the required timeframe. Annual inspections are due on or before your vehicle's TLC license expiration date. If your vehicle fails inspection, you must reschedule and return with the repairs completed before the TLC will issue a passing certificate.

Key Takeaways

  • Book your TLC inspection online through the TLC website or by phone at 311 (or 212-639-2000 from outside New York City) at least two weeks before your license expires.
  • You must bring your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and your TLC license or process number to the inspection facility.
  • Inspection locations are spread across the five boroughs, and appointment availability varies by location and season.
  • If your vehicle fails, you have 30 days to complete repairs and return for a re-inspection at no additional fee.
  • Inspections typically take 30 to 45 minutes, and you must be present with the vehicle during the entire process.

Where TLC inspections happen

The TLC operates inspection facilities in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. The main facility is located at 33 Beaver Street in lower Manhattan, but this location often has the longest wait times and books up quickly. Each borough has at least one satellite location, and some have multiple facilities depending on demand.

When you book online or by phone, you will see available appointment times at each location. Facilities in outer boroughs often have more open slots than Manhattan, though travel time may be longer for you. The TLC website lists all active inspection locations and their current hours of operation.

Steps to schedule online

Go to the TLC's official website and navigate to the inspection appointment section. You will be asked to enter your TLC license number or your process number if you are a new driver or owner. The system will pull up your vehicle information and show you available dates and times at each inspection location.

Select your preferred location and time slot. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment number, date, time, and the specific address where you need to go. Save this confirmation — you will need to show it when you arrive. If you cannot find your TLC number, call 311 and have it ready before you attempt to book online.

Booking by phone through 311

Call 311 from any phone in New York City and ask to schedule a TLC inspection appointment. From outside the city, call 212-639-2000. Have your TLC license number, vehicle registration, and insurance information ready. The representative will ask which borough you prefer and will offer you available time slots.

Phone appointments typically take 10 to 15 minutes to complete. You will receive a confirmation number and appointment details over the phone. Write down the date, time, location address, and confirmation number. The TLC does not send paper confirmations by mail, so keeping your own record is essential.

What to bring and what to expect

Bring your vehicle registration, proof of current insurance, your TLC license or process number, and a valid photo ID. The inspector will check your vehicle's exterior for damage, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors. They will verify the vehicle identification number matches your registration and check that your insurance is active.

The inspection takes 30 to 45 minutes. You must be present the entire time — you cannot leave the vehicle with someone else or drop it off. If any equipment is broken or missing, the inspector will note it on a failure report. You then have 30 days to repair the vehicle and return for a re-inspection. Re-inspections are free; you only pay the inspection fee once per year.

Timing and expiration rules

Your TLC license has an expiration date printed on it. You must complete your inspection on or before that date. Scheduling your appointment at least two weeks in advance gives you time to get a slot and allows a buffer if you fail and need to reschedule. If your license expires before you complete inspection, you cannot legally operate your vehicle.

The inspection fee varies by vehicle type: medallion taxis, for-hire vehicles, and commuter vans have different rates. Payment is due at the inspection facility, and the TLC accepts cash, card, and some digital payment methods. Ask when you book whether your location accepts your preferred payment method.

What happens if you fail inspection

A failed inspection means one or more components did not meet TLC standards. The inspector will give you a written report listing what failed. Common failures include broken lights, worn wipers, damaged bumpers, or mechanical issues. You have 30 days from the failure date to repair the vehicle and return to the same or a different TLC inspection facility.

When you return, bring the same documents you brought the first time, plus your original failure report. The inspector will re-check only the items that failed, not the entire vehicle. Once you pass, the TLC will issue your inspection certificate, which you must carry in the vehicle at all times while operating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule an inspection before my current license expires?

Yes. You can book an inspection up to 60 days before your license expiration date. Scheduling early is smart because it gives you time to fix any failures and still pass before your license runs out.

What if I cannot make my scheduled appointment?

Cancel through the TLC website or by calling 311 at least 24 hours before your appointment. You can then rebook at a different time. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may lose your slot and have to wait for the next available opening.

Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?

Appointments are required. The TLC does not accept walk-ins for inspections. All inspection slots must be booked in advance through the online system or by phone.

How long does it take to get an appointment after I book?

Availability depends on the location and time of year. Manhattan locations often book 2 to 4 weeks out, while outer borough facilities may have openings within a week. Booking early gives you more options.

What if my vehicle is registered outside New York but I drive for a TLC-licensed company?

You still need a TLC inspection. The vehicle must be inspected at a TLC facility in New York City regardless of where it is registered. Bring your out-of-state registration and proof that you are operating under a TLC license or affiliated with a TLC-licensed company.