How to become a New York Taxi Driver

By: Drivers.com staff
Date: Monday, 23. August 2010

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Driving jobs New York

Over the coming months we will be running a series of articles on different driving jobs around the world, and the various requirements you will need to meet to qualify for these jobs. In this article we are looking at the job of the New York City Taxi Driver.

Because of very high turnover rates in the industry, there is a constant demand for new taxi drivers in New York City. Salary levels vary as tips can account for up to 40% of the income of these drivers. According to Terry Gelber , a Licensed New York City Taxi Driver, drivers can expect to earn “from less than a hundred dollars per shift to as much as three hundred fifty dollars per shift”.

If you are interested in becoming a Taxi Driver in New York, our step-by-step guide below will take you through the process.

Steps to becoming a NYC taxi driver:

Step 1: the basic requirements

New York City Taxi Driver licenses are issued by the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). The license is issued for a probationary period of one year and can be renewed for two-year periods thereafter.

To apply for a Taxi License you need to have a valid New York State DMV Chauffeurs License and be at least 19 years old. You can obtain a chauffeur’s license by visiting your local New York, New Jersey, Connecticut or Pennsylvania DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). This license must be the equivalent to a New York state class A, B, C or E license.

Your license should have no more than 7 DMV points within the 18-months preceding your application.

Step 2: prepare the paperwork

Submit a copy of your driving history from your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). This Certified Abstract (State Driver Record) must be stamped or sealed and cannot be older than 30 days from the date you submit your application.

You must also submit your Social Security card (copies and laminated Social Security Cards are NOT accepted).

Applications must include a TLC medical form completed and signed by a medical doctor. It must NOT be older than 6 months from the date you submit your application and must include an official stamp from the medical practitioner.

Step 3: your finances

You will be required to show proof that you do not have any outstanding fines to the DMV for traffic violations or parking tickets. If your license is from New Jersey, Connecticut or Pennsylvania, you need a certified statement from your local DMV stating that you have no outstanding fines. You must also fill out a Child Support Certification Form even if you don't have children - this indicates that you do not have any outstanding child support payments.

Step 4: the training

All potential New York Taxi Drivers must complete a defensive driving course. The course will be 6 hours in length and cost around $50 and must be completed within 6 months of filing your application.

All applicants must attend an approved taxi school for either the 80-hour or the 24-hour course. According to the Taxi and Limousine Commission “taking the 80-hour course increases your chances of passing the taxi exam because it covers additional material not covered in the 24-hour course”.

After completing this course you must pass the English proficiency test and the written exam based on the course. The taxi course must be completed before you can take the test and both must be completed in the same taxi school.

Step 5: the application

Complete the Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) driver application and have Form A notarized.

Remember to bring:

• Fees (1 year License Fee of $60 – Money order made payable to: NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission or Visa, Master Card, AMEX or Discover - check TLC website for updates.
• Original completion certificate of the defensive driving course
• Your DMV license (which must have a photograph)
• Certified Abstract (State Driver Record)
• Social Security card
• TLC medical form completed and signed by a medical doctor
• Documentary proof that you have attended an approved taxi school and successfully completed the relevant exams.

You can file your application in either of the locations below:

LONG ISLAND CITY OFFICE
32-02 Queens Boulevard,
Long Island City, NY 11101
Open: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday
No Appointments Required

STATEN ISLAND OFFICE
1893 Richmond Terrace,
Staten Island, NY 10302
Open: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Appointment Required
Call (718) 815-3734 or 815-3735

Step 6: the drug test

Drug testing is mandatory for all New York Taxi License applicants and testing can only be carried out in a TLC approved clinic. Drug testing can only be done after submitting your TLC application and instructions will be given to you when you file your application.

If you have any tips/ questions or general comments about New York Taxi driver licensing, please post them below.

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