Taxicabs New York City

Passenger Rights & Regulations

Passenger Rights & Regulations – NYC Taxis

Official Rules for Yellow Cabs and Green Cabs in New York City

Passengers using licensed taxis in New York City are protected by clear regulations set by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). These rules apply to both Yellow Cabs and Green Cabs, ensuring safe, fair, and transparent transportation across the city.

This guide explains your rights as a passenger, how fares must be calculated, when drivers may refuse service, and how to report problems.

Who Regulates NYC Taxis?

All licensed taxis in New York City are regulated by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC).

The TLC oversees:

  • Driver licensing and conduct

  • Vehicle safety and inspections

  • Fare structures and meters

  • Passenger rights and complaints

Only TLC-licensed taxis may legally accept street hails.

Your Right to Service

Drivers May Not Refuse Legal Passengers

Taxi drivers may not refuse a passenger based on:

  • Destination within permitted service areas

  • Short trip distance

  • Payment method (cash or card)

  • Race, gender, religion, or nationality

  • Disability or the use of a service animal

Refusing a passenger without a valid reason is a violation of TLC rules.

When a Driver May Legally Refuse a Ride

A driver may refuse service only if:

  • The passenger poses a safety risk

  • The vehicle is already at maximum capacity

  • The destination is outside the legal service area

  • The passenger requests illegal activity

Metered Fare Requirements

Mandatory Use of the Taximeter

All street-hail taxi trips must:

  • Use the official TLC taximeter

  • Start the meter at the beginning of the ride

  • Display the fare clearly during the trip

Drivers may not negotiate or set custom prices for street-hail trips.

What the Taxi Fare Includes

Taxi fares are regulated and typically include:

  • Base fare

  • Distance and time charges

  • Night and peak-hour surcharges

  • Tolls, if applicable

Passengers have the right to:

  • See the meter during the ride

  • Receive a receipt at the end of the trip

Payment Rights

Taxi drivers must accept:

  • Cash

  • Credit cards

  • Debit cards

  • Contactless electronic payments

Drivers may not require cash-only payment.

Passengers have the right to request:

  • A printed receipt

  • A digital receipt

Airport Taxi Rules

Taxi regulations also apply to airport trips.

JFK Airport

  • Yellow Cabs offer a flat fare between JFK and Manhattan

  • Green Cabs use metered fares only

LaGuardia and Newark

  • Metered fares apply

  • Tolls and surcharges may be added

Drivers must follow official fare rules at all times.

Passenger Safety Standards

All licensed taxis must:

  • Pass regular safety inspections

  • Carry valid insurance

  • Provide working seat belts

  • Maintain clean and functional interiors

  • Display official taxi identification

Passengers may decline a ride if the vehicle appears unsafe.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination

Taxi drivers must:

  • Treat all passengers equally

  • Accept service animals at no extra charge

  • Follow accessibility rules where applicable

Discrimination of any kind is strictly prohibited.

Passenger Capacity and Luggage

Taxi rules include:

  • Maximum passenger limits based on the vehicle

  • Standard luggage must be accepted if it fits safely

  • No extra charges for normal luggage

Airport trips with luggage are fully permitted.

Lost Property in a Taxi

If you leave something in a taxi:

  1. Check your receipt for taxi and driver details

  2. Note the medallion or vehicle number

  3. Contact the NYC TLC Lost & Found service

Acting quickly increases the chances of recovery.

Reporting Problems or Filing Complaints

Passengers may report:

  • Overcharging or meter issues

  • Refusal of service

  • Unsafe driving

  • Discrimination

  • Lost property issues

Complaints can be filed with the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission using the taxi details from your receipt.

Why Passenger Rights Matter

Passenger rights help:

  • Protect riders from unfair practices

  • Ensure safe and professional service

  • Maintain trust in the taxi system

  • Support regulated transportation

Understanding your rights makes every taxi ride smoother and more predictable.

Learn More About NYC Taxis

For more information:

  • Yellow Cabs in NYC

  • Green Cabs in NYC

  • Yellow Cabs vs Green Cabs

  • How to Ride a Taxi in NYC

  • Taxi Fares & Pricing

Summary: Your Rights as a Taxi Passenger

When riding a licensed NYC taxi, you are entitled to:

  • Transparent, metered fares

  • Safe, licensed vehicles

  • Equal access to service

  • Clear payment options

  • Complaint and support procedures

Both Yellow Cabs and Green Cabs follow the same core regulations, ensuring consistent passenger protection across the city.