Licensed Drivers Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do to renew my one TLC driver’s license?

Can I renew my TLC driver’s license online?

Yes. After you make your renewal payment, you must meet all license renewal requirements by the expiration date of your license. To make a renewal payment visit LARS

How often do I need to renew my Defensive Driving Course?

Information regarding your Defensive Driving Course is available in Defensive Drivers Course Requirements (PDF).

If I am not granted a license, will I get a refund?

No. All Fees are Non-Refundable.

My TLC license was mailed but I have not received it. What do I do?

You will need to wait ten (10) business days from the date your license was mailed. Log into TLC UP to see the date that the license was mailed. If after 10 business days you still have not received your new license, you will need to schedule an appointment to visit our LIC facility located at:

NYC TLC
31-00 47th Avenue, 3rd floor
Long Island City NY 11101

to submit a completed and signed Credentials Form (PDF). Read the instructions on page 2. Please note that all required documents must be brought to your appointment.

  • A temporary license will be issued to all Drivers who carry a NYS DMV License. The replacement license will be mailed at a later date as your photo will be derived from your NYS DMV Drivers license.
  • A replacement license will be issued to all Drivers who carry a Non-NYS DMV License. This replacement license will be issued at the LIC facility on the day of your appointment.

How does Workers’ Compensation affect my TLC driver’s license?

What do I need to know about the interim (anniversary) Drug Test and Renewing Drug Test?

Interim (anniversary) Drug Test: Each year you must take and pass the drug test within ninety (90) days before the yearly anniversary of the date your license was issued. .

Renewal Drug Test: Before renewing your license, you must take and pass the drug test within ninety (90) days before the expiration date on your license.

For more information visit Drug Test FAQ.

Where can I find information about the New York State Department of Motor Vehicle Transportation Network Company (TNC) program?

For more information about TNC visit Department of Motor Vehicles Rideshare Information

How do I let the TLC know that I recently moved?

Update your Information Online on LARS.

What do I need to do to have my TLC license replaced if it is lost or stolen or mutilated/damaged?

For Licensees with a NYS Drivers License:

Schedule an appointment to visit our Long Island City office with the required payment to submit your request for a replacement. Read the TLC Credential Replacement instructions on page 2 of the Credential Replacement application (PDF). Please note that all required documents must be brought to your appointment.

A temporary license will be issued to all Drivers who carry a NYS DMV License. The replacement license will be mailed at a later date as your photo will be derived from your NYS DMV Drivers license. This temporary license is valid for ten (10) business days.

For Licensees with a Non-NYS Drivers License:

Schedule an appointment to visit our Long Island City office with the required payment to submit your request for a replacement.

You must complete a Credential Replacement Form Request a Replacement Credential (PDF). Read the instructions on page 2. Please note that all required documents must be brought to your appointment.

How can I update my license photo, or change my name on my TLC license?

For Licensees with a NYS Drivers License:

You must schedule an appointment at your local DMV office for a photo retake and / or change your name.

Make an appointment at TLC to receive a temporary license. The replacement license will be mailed at a later date as your photo will be derived from your NYS DMV Drivers license. You will need to sign a digital Request to Update TLC Credential Form.

For Licensees with a Non-NYS Drivers License:

Your photo will be taken on the day of your scheduled appointment. Request an appointment to update your photo by visiting Self Scheduling.

You must complete the Request a Replacement Credential form (PDF). Read the Credential Replacement instructions on page 2.

What do I need to do if I no longer wish to be a TLC Licensed Driver?

To request to cancel your TLC Driver license, submit the current TLC License and a signed Affirmation to Cancel TLC Driver License (PDF) by email to TLCcompliance@tlc.nyc.gov, or by mail to:

NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission
Re: Driver License Cancellation
31-00 47th Avenue, 3rd floor
Long Island City, NY, 11101

Requesting to cancel a TLC Driver License does not remove outstanding suspensions and/or summonses. If you wish to reapply in the future, outstanding suspensions and/or summonses must be closed before you reapply.

Can I plead guilty to and pay the fine amount on a summons or pay a summons amount due online?

Visit LARS to pay some summons.

Interested in Free Financial or Business Counseling?

At NYC’s Financial Empowerment Center, you can meet one-on-one with a professional, financial counselor who can help you with financial guidance. Service provided by NYC Consumer Affairs - Get Free Financial Counseling. Visit New York Department of Consumer Affairs for more information.

At NYC’s Industrial Business Service Providers Centers you can connect with trained specialists who can provide assistance by reviewing your business plan and providing feedback and recommendations, identifying incentives and financing assistance, and providing recommendations on recruiting and hiring employees. Service provided by Industrial Business Service Providers. Visit New York Department of Small Business Services for more information.

These FAQs are for informational purposes only, and are not a full statement of your rights, duties, and obligations under TLC Rules and applicable law. In the event that any of the information contained in these FAQs is not current or otherwise incorrect, the TLC’s Rules and applicable laws govern. For more information visit TLC Rules.