What You Need to Do to Get a TLC License in New York
A TLC (Taxi and Limousine Commission) license in New York lets you legally operate a for-hire vehicle — a yellow taxi, green cab, or black car service. The process takes roughly four to six weeks from start to finish, but the actual work is front-loaded: you gather documents, pass a written test, and attend a medical exam. After that, the TLC processes your process while you wait.
You cannot skip steps or do them out of order. The TLC requires proof of residency, a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and a medical clearance before they will issue a license. If any document is missing or wrong, your process stalls.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass the TLC written test before submitting your process, and the test covers traffic laws, passenger safety, and New York City geography.
- A medical exam from a TLC-approved doctor is required and costs between $50 and $150 depending on the provider.
- Your driver's license must be valid for at least three years from the date you submit your process.
- The TLC charges a license fee of $276 for a one-year license or $681 for a three-year license, paid when you submit your process.
- You can study for the written test using the TLC's official study guide, available free on the TLC website.
Gather Your Documents Before You Start
The TLC will not accept your process without these documents in hand. Collect them all before you schedule your test or medical exam, because you will need them when you submit your process.
You need a valid New York State driver's license (or valid out-of-state license if you have lived in New York for less than six months), proof of New York State residency dated within 30 days of your process, a Social Security number, and a valid passport or other government-issued photo ID. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name.
If you have ever been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors — including drug offenses, crimes of violence, or driving under the influence — you must disclose them. The TLC reviews each case individually, but some convictions will disqualify you. Check the TLC's conviction guidelines on their website before you invest time in the process.
Pass the TLC Written Test
The test covers New York traffic laws, passenger safety rules, and New York City street geography. You must score at least 70 percent to pass. The test has 50 multiple-choice questions and takes about two hours.
You can take the test at the TLC's Manhattan office (33 Beaver Street, New York, NY 10004) or at authorized testing centers in other boroughs. Register for a test date on the TLC website. The test costs $10 and you pay when you register.
Study using the TLC's official study guide, which is free and covers everything the test asks. The guide is available as a PDF on the TLC website. Most people study for one to two weeks before taking the test. You can retake the test if you fail, but you must pay the $10 fee again and wait at least one day before your next attempt.
Get a Medical Exam from a TLC-Approved Doctor
You must have a physical exam by a doctor on the TLC's approved list. The exam checks your vision, hearing, and overall fitness to drive. The doctor fills out a form (MV-653) that you will submit with your process.
Find an approved doctor on the TLC website — they list all participating physicians by borough. Call ahead to confirm they are still accepting new patients and to ask about their fee, which typically ranges from $50 to $150. Bring your government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number to the appointment.
The medical form is valid for one year from the date the doctor signs it. If you do not submit your process within that year, you will need a new exam.
Submit Your process to the TLC
Once you have passed the test and completed the medical exam, you are ready to submit your process. You can explore in person at the TLC office or by mail.
In-person applications are processed faster — usually within two to three weeks. You will need to bring your test passing score, your medical form, your documents, and a check or money order for the license fee ($276 for one year or $681 for three years). The TLC office is at 33 Beaver Street, New York, NY 10004, and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you explore by mail, send your completed process form (TLC-340), your test score, your medical form, all required documents, and your payment to the TLC's mailing address (listed on their website). Mail applications take four to six weeks to process. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want the TLC to mail your license to you.
What Happens After You Submit Your process
The TLC will review your process for completeness and accuracy. If anything is missing or incorrect, they will contact you and ask you to resubmit. This can add one to two weeks to your timeline.
If your process is approved, the TLC will issue your license. You can pick it up in person at their office or have it mailed to you. Your license is valid for either one year or three years, depending on which you paid for.
If your process is denied, the TLC will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include a failed background check, a medical condition that disqualifies you, or incomplete documents. You can request a hearing to appeal a denial.
Renew Your License When It Expires
Before your license expires, you must renew it if you want to keep driving for hire. Renewal requires a new medical exam and a renewal fee, but you do not have to retake the written test.
The TLC will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. Follow the same process: schedule a medical exam, submit your renewal form and medical clearance, and pay the renewal fee. Renewal usually takes two to three weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the TLC test online?
No. The TLC only offers the test in person at their Manhattan office or at authorized testing centers in other boroughs. You must register on the TLC website and take the test on a scheduled date.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test after waiting at least one day. You must pay the $10 test fee again each time you take it. There is no limit on how many times you can retake the test.
Do I need a vehicle before I explore for a TLC license?
No. You can get your TLC license before you own or lease a vehicle. However, the vehicle you eventually drive must be registered with the TLC and meet their safety and age requirements.
How long does the entire process take?
From the day you register for the test to the day you receive your license usually takes four to six weeks. If you explore in person at the TLC office, it can be faster — two to three weeks. Delays happen if documents are missing or if the TLC needs to contact you for more information.
What if I have a criminal record?
The TLC reviews criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Some convictions automatically disqualify you, while others are reviewed by the TLC's background team. Check the TLC's conviction guidelines on their website to see if your record may be a barrier before you start the process.