Taxicabs New York City

Green Cabs

Green Cabs in NYC

Neighborhood Street-Hail Taxi Service Across the Boroughs

Green Cabs, also known as Boro Taxis, are a key part of New York City’s official taxi system. Introduced to improve transportation access outside Manhattan’s busiest areas, Green Cabs provide licensed, metered street-hail service across the boroughs and Upper Manhattan.

Fully regulated by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC), Green Cabs offer safe, legal, and reliable transportation in neighborhoods where traditional Yellow Cabs were historically less available.

This guide explains how Green Cabs work, where they operate, how fares are calculated, and when they are the best choice for getting around New York City.

What Are Green Cabs?

Green Cabs are licensed street-hail taxis introduced by New York City to serve areas outside Manhattan’s core. They are commonly referred to as Boro Taxis because they focus on the outer boroughs.

Green Cabs:

  • Are licensed by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission

  • Use official taximeters

  • Accept cash and card payments

  • Are driven by professionally licensed drivers

  • Provide neighborhood-focused street-hail service

They are designed to complement, not replace, Yellow Cabs.

Where Green Cabs Operate

Green Cabs may pick up street hails only in designated areas:

  • Brooklyn

  • Queens

  • Bronx

  • Staten Island

  • Upper Manhattan

They are not permitted to pick up passengers in:

  • Midtown Manhattan

  • Downtown Manhattan

However, they may drop off passengers anywhere in New York City.

This system ensures that outer borough neighborhoods have better access to legal taxi service.

How to Hail a Green Cab

Hailing a Green Cab is similar to hailing a Yellow Cab:

  1. Look for a Green Cab with its rooftop light illuminated.

  2. Stand at the curb in a legal stopping area.

  3. Raise your hand to signal the driver.

  4. Enter safely once the cab stops.

If the rooftop light is off, the cab is either occupied or not in service.

Green Cab Fares

Green Cabs use the same TLC-regulated metered fare system as Yellow Cabs.

Fares are based on:

  • Base fare

  • Distance traveled

  • Time spent in traffic

  • Night and peak-hour surcharges

  • Tolls where applicable

Passengers can view the meter during the trip, ensuring full transparency.

Payment Options

Green Cabs must accept:

  • Cash

  • Credit cards

  • Debit cards

  • Contactless payment methods

Drivers may not demand cash-only payment.

Receipts are available upon request.

Green Cabs and Airport Travel

Green Cabs may take passengers to all major airports, including:

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

  • LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

However:

  • Green Cabs cannot pick up passengers at airport taxi stands

  • All airport trips are charged using the metered fare

  • No flat fare applies to Green Cab airport trips

Passenger Rights in Green Cabs

Passengers using Green Cabs are protected by the same TLC regulations that apply to Yellow Cabs.

Drivers may not refuse a passenger based on:

  • Destination within permitted areas

  • Short trip distance

  • Payment method

  • Personal characteristics

Passengers are entitled to:

  • Metered fares

  • Safe, licensed vehicles

  • Card and cash payment options

  • Receipts upon request

Safety and Regulation

All Green Cabs must:

  • Pass regular safety inspections

  • Carry proper insurance

  • Display official taxi identification

  • Follow TLC regulations

Drivers must hold a valid TLC license and comply with professional standards.

When to Choose a Green Cab

A Green Cab is usually the best choice if you:

  • Are in Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, or Staten Island

  • Are in Upper Manhattan

  • Need a neighborhood street-hail taxi

  • Want a regulated, metered fare

  • Are traveling locally within the boroughs

Green Cabs vs Yellow Cabs

While Green Cabs focus on outer borough service, Yellow Cabs have citywide pickup rights, especially in Manhattan.

Both taxi types:

  • Are licensed by the TLC

  • Use the same metered fare system

  • Accept cards and cash

  • Follow identical safety standards

The main difference lies in their pickup zones and airport rules.

👉 Learn more:
Yellow Cabs vs Green Cabs

Learn More About Green Cabs

For a detailed guide dedicated exclusively to Green Cab service, visit:

GreenCabs.taxi

You can also explore:

  • How to Ride a Taxi in NYC

  • Taxi Fares & Pricing

  • Passenger Rights & Regulations

  • Airport Taxi Guides

Summary: Green Cabs in NYC

Green Cabs provide essential street-hail taxi service in neighborhoods outside Manhattan’s busiest areas. With regulated fares, licensed drivers, and borough-focused coverage, they play a key role in New York City’s transportation system.

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