What a TLC driver license is and who needs one
A TLC driver license is a credential issued by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission that you must carry if you drive a yellow taxi, green cab, or for-hire vehicle services like Uber or Lyft in New York City. It is separate from your regular New York State driver license and proves you have met the city's safety, background, and knowledge requirements to transport passengers for money.
You need a TLC license if you drive any vehicle that picks up passengers who hail you on the street or book you through an app, and you are paid to do so. This includes yellow medallion taxis, green street hail liveries, black cars, and app-based services. If you drive for a ride-sharing company, your employer will tell you whether a TLC license is required — some companies handle the paperwork, but you still have to meet the requirements and pass the tests yourself.
You do not need a TLC license if you drive your own car for personal use, or if you are a private driver hired directly by one person or family (not through a dispatch system or app). The license is specific to New York City; if you drive for hire in other parts of New York State or other states, different rules explore.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass a background check, a drug test, a medical exam, and a written knowledge test before the TLC will issue your license.
- The TLC requires a valid New York State driver license, a Social Security number, and proof of New York State residency or a valid work visa.
- The written test covers New York City geography, traffic laws, passenger safety, and vehicle maintenance — you can study using the official TLC handbook.
- The entire process typically takes four to eight weeks from the time you submit your process to receiving your license in the mail.
- You must renew your TLC license every two years, and renewal requires passing the medical exam and drug test again.
Documents you need to bring to your TLC appointment
Before you can take the TLC tests, you must submit an process and attend an in-person appointment at a TLC office. Bring your valid New York State driver license, your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, and proof that you live in New York State or have a valid work visa. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
You will also need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of insurance for the vehicle you plan to drive. If you are explore through an employer or ride-sharing company, bring any paperwork they gave you confirming your employment or affiliation. The TLC may also ask for your fingerprints at this appointment, so be prepared to provide them on the spot.
Bring a check or money order for the process fee — the amount varies depending on the type of license you are seeking. The TLC does not accept cash at appointments. If you are missing any required documents, the TLC will tell you what to bring back before they can process your process further.
The background check, drug test, and medical exam
After you submit your process, the TLC will order a background check that covers your driving history, criminal record, and any outstanding warrants. This check takes one to two weeks. You will also be required to pass a drug test — the TLC will direct you to an approved testing facility, and you pay for the test yourself (cost varies by facility). The drug test screens for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and other controlled substances.
You must also pass a medical exam performed by a doctor approved by the TLC. The exam checks your vision, hearing, and general fitness to drive. You can use your own doctor if they are on the TLC's approved list, or the TLC can direct you to a clinic. The medical exam costs money out of pocket, though the exact amount depends on the provider.
If you fail the background check, drug test, or medical exam, the TLC will deny your process. A drug test failure is permanent — you cannot reapply. A failed medical exam may be appealable if the condition is temporary or treatable; contact the TLC to ask about your specific situation. A background check denial depends on the offense; some disqualifying crimes can be waived after a certain number of years have passed.
Studying for and taking the written knowledge test
Once your background check clears and your medical exam and drug test are complete, the TLC will schedule you for the written test. The test has 50 questions and covers New York City street geography, traffic laws, passenger safety procedures, vehicle maintenance, and driver conduct. You must score at least 70 percent to pass. You get one attempt; if you fail, you can retake the test after 14 days, and you can retake it up to three times total.
The TLC publishes an official study guide called the TLC Driver's Manual, available free on the TLC website. The manual covers every topic on the test. Many drivers also use third-party study apps and practice tests, which can help you get familiar with the question format. The test is given in English, but the TLC offers it in other languages if you request one when you schedule your appointment.
The test is computer-based and administered at a TLC office. You will be given a specific date and time; arrive early and bring a valid photo ID. The test takes about 30 to 45 minutes. You will receive your score when ready after you finish, and if you pass, the TLC will mail your license within two to three weeks.
Types of TLC licenses and what each one covers
The TLC issues different types of licenses depending on the vehicle and service you will drive. A yellow medallion license is for drivers of yellow taxis — these are the iconic cabs you hail on the street. A green street hail livery license is for drivers of green cabs, which serve outer boroughs and upper Manhattan. A black car license is for drivers of luxury vehicles used for pre-arranged rides. An app-based for-hire vehicle license is for drivers of Uber, Lyft, and similar services.
Each license type has slightly different requirements and fees. Yellow medallion and green cab licenses require you to work for a licensed taxi company or own a medallion. App-based licenses require you to be affiliated with a licensed for-hire vehicle company. Black car licenses require you to work for a licensed black car company. The written test is the same for all types, but the process process and fees differ.
If you want to drive more than one type of vehicle, you will need separate licenses for each. For example, if you want to drive both a yellow taxi and an Uber, you must obtain both a yellow medallion license and an app-based license. Each license must be renewed separately every two years.
Timeline from process to receiving your license
The entire process from submitting your process to receiving your TLC license in the mail typically takes four to eight weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on how quickly you complete each step. The first step — submitting your process and attending your in-person appointment — can happen within one to two weeks of contacting the TLC. The background check takes one to two weeks. The drug test and medical exam can be scheduled and completed within one to two weeks if you act quickly.
The written test is usually scheduled within two to three weeks of your background check clearing. If you pass the test on your first attempt, the TLC mails your license within two to three weeks. If you fail and need to retake it, add another two to three weeks for the retest appointment and another two to three weeks for the license to arrive after you pass.
The timeline can stretch if you delay scheduling your drug test or medical exam, or if you fail the written test and wait before retaking it. Some ride-sharing companies prioritize their drivers' applications, which may speed up the process slightly. Contact the TLC directly if your process seems to be taking longer than expected — processing times can vary based on how busy the office is.
Renewing your TLC license every two years
Your TLC license is valid for two years from the date it is issued. To renew, you must submit a renewal process to the TLC at least 30 days before your license expires. You will need to pass the medical exam and drug test again, but you do not have to retake the written knowledge test. Your New York State driver license must still be valid, and you must still meet the residency or work visa requirement.
The renewal process is faster than the initial process — it typically takes three to five weeks from submission to receiving your renewed license. You will pay a renewal fee, which is less than the initial process fee. If your license expires and you have not renewed it, you cannot legally drive for hire in New York City until you renew it, even if your renewal process is pending.
If your medical exam or drug test fails during renewal, your license will not be renewed, and you will not be able to drive for hire until you reapply and pass. Plan ahead so you have time to renew before your current license expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive for Uber or Lyft without a TLC license?
No. Uber and Lyft are licensed by the TLC as for-hire vehicle services, and all their drivers in New York City must have a TLC app-based for-hire vehicle license. The company will tell you this during onboarding and will not let you accept rides until you have your license. Some drivers think they can start driving before the license arrives, but the app will not allow it.
What disqualifies you from getting a TLC license?
A felony conviction, a drug test failure, or certain traffic violations can disqualify you. The TLC has a list of crimes that permanently bar you from holding a license, including violent felonies and sex offenses. A drug test failure is permanent — you cannot reapply. Some traffic violations, like reckless driving or driving with a suspended license, can also disqualify you depending on how recent they are.
Do I have to pay for the drug test and medical exam myself?
Yes. The TLC does not cover these costs. The drug test typically costs $50 to $150 depending on the facility, and the medical exam typically costs $50 to $200. Some ride-sharing companies reimburse drivers for these costs after they are hired, so ask your employer before you pay out of pocket.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test after 14 days. You get up to three attempts total. If you fail all three times, your process is denied, and you would have to start the entire process over, including the background check and medical exam. Most drivers pass on the first or second attempt if they study the TLC Driver's Manual thoroughly.
Can I renew my TLC license online?
No. You must submit your renewal process in person at a TLC office or by mail. If you renew by mail, include your renewal process, proof of your medical exam and drug test results, and your renewal fee. The TLC will mail your renewed license to you. In-person renewal is faster, typically taking two to three weeks instead of three to five.