How to Verify a Limousine Business License in New York

Requests for records are called FOIL requests, for Freedom of Information Law.

Limousine and taxi services in New York are required to be licensed and their vehicles operated by licensed drivers. "Gypsy" or "dollar" cabs, though cheaper than licensed services, offer the consumer no protection. License information should be printed clearly on the sides of livery vehicles, and consumers can verify the information online as well.

Things You'll Need

• Base name
• Base license number, if possible
• Base telephone number, if possible
• Driver for-hire vehicle driver license information, if possible
• License plate number, if possible

Instructions

Verify a Licensed Limousine

1. Call a company base to have a livery car pick you up; hailing a cab or limo on the street increases your chances of accidentally hiring an unlicensed operator. Ask the dispatcher how much the trip costs.

2. Check the limousine's exterior for company information. The "base" name, license number and telephone number should be clearly visible. Stickers can be on the sides or the back of the vehicle. New York City livery cars must have a "TLC" (Taxi and Limousine Commission) sticker on each of the rear quarter windows.

3. Ask to see the driver's "for hire" vehicle license if it is not displayed. Ideally, the license is displayed behind the driver's seat so it's easy to see, according to the Taxi and Limousine Commission.

4. Write down the driver and base license number if you suspect the driver is operating unlawfully. Report complaints to the TLC or the New York State Department of Transportation.

Verify a License Online or by Mail or Facsimile

1. Write a letter with as much vehicle identification information as possible. Include a description of the car, including the license plate if possible, as well as a description of the driver. Include the license numbers of the base company and driver if you have them. Verbal requests are not accepted.

2. Mail the letter to the TLC if the limousine operates in New York City, at 33 Beaver St., Legal Department, New York, NY, 10004, attn: Records Access Officer. For companies elsewhere in the state, contact the Department of Transportation. The address is Records Access Office, NYSDOT, 50 Wolf Road, 6th Floor, Albany, NY, 12232.

3. Email your request to the state at [e-mail] if you don't want to mail a letter. New York City does not accept email requests.

4. Fax your request to 518-457-9729 for state inquiries or 212-676-1102 for New York City inquiries.

5. Wait to receive the requested documents; you should receive a receipt of your request within five business days.

References

• New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission: How to Request Records from the TLC
• New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission: Passenger Information
• New York State Department of Transportation: Request for Records