How to Apply for a TLC Driver License in New York City

What a TLC Driver License Is and Who Needs One

A TLC driver license is issued by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission and is required to operate a yellow taxi, green taxi (Boro Taxi), or for-hire vehicle like Uber or Lyft within New York City. It is separate from your regular New York State driver license — you must hold a valid state license first, but the TLC license is what legally permits you to pick up passengers for money.

You need a TLC license if you drive a yellow medallion taxi, a green medallion taxi, or any vehicle registered with a for-hire vehicle base (such as Uber, Lyft, or Via). You do not need one if you drive your own personal vehicle and do not transport passengers for payment, or if you work as a private car service driver for a single employer with a contract.

The TLC issues two types of licenses: the For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) Driver License for app-based services and private car services, and the Medallion Taxi Driver License for yellow and green cabs. The process process, fees, and requirements differ between the two.

Key Takeaways

You must hold a valid New York State driver license before you can obtain a TLC license, and your state license must remain valid throughout your TLC employment.
For-hire vehicle drivers and taxi drivers follow different process paths, with different background check requirements and fees ranging from $76.50 to $341 depending on license type.
The TLC requires a medical examination from a TLC-approved physician, a Drug Recognition informed (DRE) test, and a background check that includes fingerprinting.
Processing time is typically 4 to 6 weeks after you submit all required documents, though delays occur if documents are incomplete or if background checks take longer.
You must renew your TLC license every three years, and renewal requires another medical exam and background check.

Documents You Need Before You Start

Gather these documents before you begin your process. The TLC will not process an incomplete submission, and missing items will delay your approval by weeks.

You will need your valid New York State driver license (or a valid license from another state if you are a new New York resident), your Social Security number, and proof of New York City residency dated within 30 days of your process — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address works. You will also need a valid passport or other government-issued photo ID.

If you have ever been convicted of a crime, arrested, or had a violation, you must disclose it on your process. The TLC conducts a seven-year background check and will deny your license if you have certain felonies or misdemeanors on your record, including crimes of violence, drug trafficking, or crimes involving dishonesty. You can request a Fitness information from the TLC before you explore if you are unsure whether your record will disqualify you — this costs $50 and takes 2 to 3 weeks.

The Medical Examination and Drug Test Requirements

The TLC requires a medical examination performed by a physician on the TLC's approved list. You cannot use your regular doctor unless they are registered with the TLC. The exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and general fitness to drive. You can find the list of approved physicians on the TLC website under "Medical Examiners."

The medical exam costs between $50 and $100 depending on the physician. You must also pass a Drug Recognition informed (DRE) test, which is a standardized roadside sobriety and drug impairment evaluation. This is not a urine test — it is a physical and cognitive assessment performed by a certified DRE officer. The DRE test is administered at TLC offices or at certain approved locations and costs $25.

Both the medical exam and DRE test must be completed within 30 days of your process submission. If either expires before your license is issued, you will need to repeat it.

Step-by-Step process Process for For-Hire Vehicle Drivers

If you drive for Uber, Lyft, Via, or another app-based service, or for a private car service, you are explore for an FHV Driver License. The process has five main steps.

Step 1: Create an account on the TLC website. Go to the TLC's online portal at tlc.nyc.gov and create a driver account. You will need your email address and a password. Save your confirmation email.

Step 2: Complete the online process form. Log in and fill out the FHV Driver License process. You will enter your personal information, driver license number, Social Security number, address, and work history for the past five years. You will also declare any criminal history or traffic violations. Do not leave any field blank — the system will not let you proceed if required fields are empty.

Step 3: Pay the process fee and schedule your medical exam and DRE test. The FHV Driver License process fee is $76.50. You pay this online when you submit your process. You will then schedule your medical exam and DRE test through the TLC portal. Both must be completed within 30 days.

Step 4: Complete your medical exam and DRE test. Visit the approved physician and the DRE testing location on the dates you scheduled. Bring your government-issued photo ID and your Social Security card. The physician will submit the exam results directly to the TLC. You will receive a receipt from the DRE officer.

Step 5: Submit your documents and wait for approval. After your medical exam and DRE test are complete, log back into your TLC account and upload any remaining documents the system requests — typically a copy of your state driver license and proof of residency. The TLC will then conduct a background check, which takes 2 to 4 weeks. You will receive an email when your license is approved or if the TLC needs more information.

Step-by-Step process Process for Medallion Taxi Drivers

If you are driving a yellow or green medallion taxi, you are explore for a Medallion Taxi Driver License. The process is similar to the FHV path but includes additional requirements.

Step 1: Obtain a Medallion Lease or Ownership Document. You cannot explore for a taxi license without proof that you have the right to operate a medallion. This means you must either own the medallion, lease it from the TLC, or have a lease agreement with a medallion owner. Bring this document when you explore.

Step 2: Complete the online process and pay the fee. Create an account on the TLC website and fill out the Medallion Taxi Driver License process. The process fee is $341. You will enter the same personal and work history information as FHV applicants, plus the medallion number and your lease or ownership details.

Step 3: Schedule and complete your medical exam, DRE test, and fingerprinting. Medallion taxi applicants must also submit to fingerprinting for a more extensive background check. Schedule all three through the TLC portal. The fingerprinting is done at an approved location (usually a police precinct or TLC office) and costs $100.

Step 4: Submit documents and wait for approval. After your exams and fingerprinting are complete, upload your state driver license, proof of residency, and medallion documentation. The background check for taxi drivers takes 4 to 6 weeks because of the fingerprinting requirement.

Common Reasons Applications Are Delayed or Denied

The most common reason for delay is incomplete documentation. If you do not upload a clear copy of your state driver license or proof of residency, the TLC will send you an email asking you to resubmit. This adds 1 to 2 weeks to your timeline. Always check your email regularly during the process process.

Applications are denied for criminal history, serious traffic violations, or failure to pass the medical exam or DRE test. If you have a felony conviction within the past seven years, a DUI or drug-related driving offense, or a pattern of traffic violations, your process will likely be denied. If you fail the DRE test, you can retake it once; if you fail twice, your process is denied and you must wait six months before reapplying.

Medical exam failures are rare but can occur if you have uncorrected vision problems, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or other conditions that impair your ability to drive safely. If you fail, you can retake the exam with a different approved physician or after addressing the medical issue.

Renewal and Ongoing Requirements

Your TLC license is valid for three years from the date of issue. You must renew it before it expires. Renewal requires another medical exam, DRE test, and background check — the process is the same as your initial process. The renewal fee is $76.50 for FHV drivers and $341 for taxi drivers.

You must also maintain a valid New York State driver license at all times. If your state license expires or is suspended, your TLC license becomes invalid when ready, even if it has not reached its three-year expiration. If you move out of New York City, you must notify the TLC within 30 days.

The TLC can suspend or revoke your license if you accumulate too many traffic violations, fail a drug test, or are convicted of a crime while licensed. You have the right to a hearing before suspension or revocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive for Uber or Lyft while my TLC process is being processed?

No. You cannot legally pick up passengers until your TLC license is issued. Some app-based services will let you complete their own background check and training while you wait for the TLC, but you cannot accept rides. Driving without a TLC license is a violation and can result in fines and vehicle impoundment.

What happens if I fail the DRE test?

You can retake the DRE test once at no additional cost. If you fail a second time, your process is denied. You must wait six months from the date of your second failure before you can reapply. The DRE test is not a drug test — it is an assessment of your ability to recognize and respond to impairment.

Do I need to renew my TLC license if I stop driving?

No. If you are no longer driving for a TLC-licensed service, you can let your license expire without renewing. You do not need to formally surrender it unless you want to. If you return to driving later, you will need to reapply as a new applicant.

How long does the entire process take from start to finish?

The typical timeline is 4 to 6 weeks if all your documents are complete and your background check has no complications. Medical exams and DRE tests can usually be scheduled within 1 to 2 weeks. The background check itself takes 2 to 4 weeks for FHV drivers and 4 to 6 weeks for taxi drivers due to fingerprinting. Delays occur if documents are missing, if the TLC needs clarification on your background, or if the approved physician or DRE location has a backlog.

Can I appeal if my process is denied?

Yes. If your process is denied, the TLC will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a hearing before the TLC's administrative judge within 30 days of the denial letter. You can present evidence and testimony at the hearing. If the denial was based on criminal history, you may also request a Fitness information review before reapplying.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.