The City regulates both taxicabs and private transportation companies (PTCs), such as Uber and Lyft, for safety and consumer protection. Below are the top 10 things that you should know.
- When using a PTC, check that the photo of the driver matches driver in vehicle and the licence plate on the app matches the licence plate on the vehicle.
- Only taxicabs are permitted to pick-up passengers from the street via “street hail” and use designated taxicab stands. All PTC rides must be booked through an app.
- Taxicabs display their taxicab plate on the rear of the vehicle, with the number posted on the side door, and have a roof light. PTCs must display an identifying sign in their rear window.
- When you hail a taxicab from the street, or are picked up at a taxicab stand, the driver must activate the meter and charge the City-regulated rate.
- Taxicab drivers must provide service to the first person who requests it, no matter how small the fare.
- Drivers cannot refuse service to any person with a disability. This includes a person accompanied by a service animal.
- Taxicab drivers must provide airport flat rate maps upon request.
- PTCs or taxicabs booked through a brokerage may charge you with a rate different than the City-regulated rate. You must agree to accept the price before starting your trip.
- Be sure to check for cyclists when entering or exiting a taxicab or PTC vehicle.
- Taxicab and PTC drivers and vehicles must meet City standards for criminal background checks, driving history checks, and be equipped with snow tires or all-weather tires from December 1 to April 30.
