TLC License Requirements for New York City Uber Drivers
*IMPORTANT
As of August 14th 2018, there has been a cap placed on the number of active For-Hire Vehicles signed into law in New York City. This means that the TLC will not be giving out any TLC licenses or plates to any individual UNLESS they have a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (SUVs, Vans, Mini-Vans,etc) that passes the required inspection. Therefore, after that date, the number of new Uber drivers in New York City is limited to those who fall into this criteria. This law will be in effect for one year (Until August 14th 2019).
For now, if you satisfy this requirement, continue reading.
Things You Need to Acquire a TLC License
If you are a New York City resident and wish to become a driver for Uber or any other rideshare company, you must obtain a TLC License along with commercial insurance and license plates from the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission, in addition to the general requirements. There are several requirements to complete and documents to submit in order to get your license and the process can take anywhere from 1-3 months, depending on how fast you complete and submit what you need to. You must complete the requirements and submit the documents within 90 days of submitting your TLC Application. After you’ve taken the initial step to sign up with Uber, here are the additional steps you’ll need to take:
- Submit a TLC Application online ($252 Non-Refundable Fee) @ www1.nyc.gov/lars
Required Documents to submit to the TLC within 90 Days
- NY DMW Driver’s License (You’ll need to request to change the license to a Class E at your nearest DMV. You’ll be immediately given a new temporary license while waiting for the new one in the mail.)
- Temporary or Original Defensive Driving Certificate
- TLC Medical Form
Requirements
- Defensive Driving Course and Medical Exam – Offered Free at Uber. Sign up @ driveubernyc.com/defensive
- 24 Hour Class and Exam – Typically given 3 days back to back (Mon, Tues, Wed) with the exam scheduled no earlier than the next week. ($250 = $175 for the Course and $75 for the Exam). For a list of places to sign up go to driveubernyc.com/fhv
- Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Course – Offered Free at Uber. Sign up @ driveubernyc.com/wav
- Drug Testing – $26. May be done by appointment or walk in depending on the agency. Get more information @ www.uber.com/drive/new-york/get-a-license/tlc-drug-test/
- Fingerprinting – $75. Schedule an appointment @ https://ny.ibtfingerprint.com/
- Sex Trafficking Training – Online Video. This is usually included with the DD Course above. However, you may watch the video online if you wish @ www.nyc.gov/html/tlc/html/industry/training_video_sex_trafficking.shtml
The fastest way to submit your required documents is by email at newdrivermr@tlc.nyc.gov. You must provide your state driver’s license number on all of your documents before submitting them.
Planning on using your car to drive for a ride-sharing company in New York City? Here’s how you can get your car TLC plates.