Getting TLC Plates on Your Car

 

*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

When driving for a ride-sharing company like Uber or Lyft, you have the option of renting a car from a partner company like American Lease or Buggy, or you can use your own car.  If you live in New York City, your vehicle is required to have TLC plates on them, regardless of what option you decide to explore.  If you decide to rent a car from one these companies, then having commercial plates put on your car is usually done for you by the company.  However, if you desire to use your own car, you will need to be active in this process.

 

This section illustrates each step in detail.  You have 45 days to complete this vehicle licensing process.  I am listing Uber’s requirements in particular because from my own experience I was driving for Uber at the time I had my vehicle plated.  The process for other companies may or may not be similar or identical.  These are the steps that I had to take in this order.

 

  1. Visit an Uber Greenlight Hub for a TLC Base Letter – a certified letter that says that you approached a black car base that is licensed by the TLC in order to affiliate your vehicle to that base.
  2. Take your letter to get TLC Insurance, which is your FH-1 and Certificate of Liability (Best to do on weekdays, as insurance brokers are usually unavailable during the weekend.) (Many times they’re also at the Hub during the week). You will need to pay a fee for the premium.  However, fees may vary.
  3. Return to the Greenlight Hub to cover your fees once your TLC Insurance is effective. (If brokers are at the hub, this step can be done immediately after step 2.)

*After Uber submits a base affirmation form for your vehicle, you have up to 7 days to complete the online application at nyc.gov/lars

*If you’re unable to upload a document, email it to newvehmr@tlc.nyc.gov.

Bring:

  • TLC Insurance (FH-1 and Certificate of Liability)
  • One of the following documents:

Vehicle Title, Bill of Sale, Leasing Agreement, OR DMV Registration (If your vehicle is registered outside of NY)

  • Government-issued photo ID of applicant
  • Payment for Application Fees (Credit Card, Debit Card, Checking Account Information)

$550 for a vehicle under 500 miles

$625 for a vehicle over 500 miles (including a $75 Inspection Fee)

  1. Head to the DMV to get your TLC Plates and Registration.

You’ll receive a Plate Letter from the TLC (likely through email) to take to any NYC DMV to get your plates.  There will be a cost but it will be determined by the DMV.  This letter is only valid for 20 days.

  1. Request your inspection appointment by Completing the Plate Notification Form at t.uber.com/dmvplates. You will need to have: the name on your insurance, the application number (will be in the email from the TLC), your whole Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and your new license plate number that you received from the DMV.

The TLC reviews your application and then emails you an inspection appointment. Print your appointment letter and bring it with you to the appointment (Mandatory)

  1. Attend your appointment at BQE TLC 24-55 BQE Woodside, NY 11377.
  2. Return to the Greenlight Hub to register your vehicle to your Uber account.

Bring:  FH-1 Insurance Card, Certificate of Liability Insurance, Commercial TLC Registration, FHV Diamond or Inspection Report (Must Pass)

 

*You need a Vision Zero sticker on the windshield in order for your vehicle to pass the inspection.  Whenever you visit the Greenlight Hub at any point before your inspection, ask for one.

*Make sure your name is identical on all documents

* If your car is a hybrid vehicle, you must have 2 Green NYC stickers placed on both sides of the rear of the vehicle