Charge codes 353

Taxicab and street hail livery drivers (former Chapter 54)

Chapter 54 held the rules for drivers of yellow medallion taxicabs and, from 2012, street hail liveries (green cabs): licensing, traffic safety, fares, refusals, passenger requests, trip records and the critical driver and persistent violator point programs. It replaced old Chapter 2 in April 2011 and was repealed on October 26, 2016, when Chapter 80 combined all driver rules. Most section numbers carried over to Chapter 80 (54-13 → 80-13, 54-20 → 80-20).

§54-13

§54-13(A)(4)(I)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(A)(4)(I)713 charges · 2013–2017

After an accident, did not show licenses and rate card

Part of the accident-scene rule: after an accident with injury or property damage, if the other party was present, the driver had to show their chauffeur's license, TLC driver license and rate card to that person. This charge says the driver did not show them. The penalty box covers all of (a)(4). Today the rule is §80-13(a)(4)(i).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $350 and/or suspension up to 30 days, or revocation if found guilty more than 3 times within 12 months (box covers all of §54-13(a)(4)). Appearance required.
Points
3

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(a)(4)(i)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(A)(4)(II)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(A)(4)(II)630 charges · 2013–2017

After an accident, did not give name, license and insurance details

Part of the accident-scene rule: after an accident with injury or property damage, the driver had to give the other party or the police their name, chauffeur's license number, TLC license number, medallion or green cab license number, and the insurance company and policy number. This charge says the driver did not give that information. Today the rule is §80-13(a)(4)(ii).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $350 and/or suspension up to 30 days, or revocation if found guilty more than 3 times within 12 months (box covers all of §54-13(a)(4)). Appearance required.
Points
3

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(a)(4)(ii)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(A)(5)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(A)(5)65 charges · 2013–2016

Did not tell the cab owner about an accident

A driver involved in a traffic accident had to report it right away to the owner of the taxi (the medallion owner or fleet) or to the green cab licensee. This charge says the driver did not notify the owner. Today the rule is §80-13(a)(5).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100. Appearance not required.
Points
3

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(a)(5)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(A)(I)(B)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(A)(3)(I)(B)5 charges · 2015

Probably speeding 11 to 20 mph over (code missing the (3))

No paragraph (i)(B) sits directly under 54-13(a); the speeding items are 54-13(a)(3)(i)(A) to (E). This code, dated mid-2015, is most likely 54-13(a)(3)(i)(B): speeding 11 to 20 mph over the limit, a hazardous moving violation with a $300/$400 TLC fine and 4 points. Check the summons narrative to confirm.

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(a)(3)(i)(B) (most likely)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(A)(VII)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(A)(3)(VII)2 charges · 2013

Probably a traffic signal violation (code missing the (3))

No item (vii) sits directly under 54-13(a); the numbered hazardous items are under paragraph (3). This code is most likely 54-13(a)(3)(vii), a traffic signal violation (such as running a red light), which carried a $300/$400 TLC fine and 3 points. Check the summons narrative to confirm.

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(a)(3)(vii) (most likely)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(A)1Old rule — replaced2 charges · 2014

Parking or standing violation while driving a taxi — another spelling of §54-13(A)(1) (Parking or standing violation while driving a taxi).

§54-13(A)2Old rule — replaced2 charges · 2013

Moving violation (non-hazardous) while driving a taxi — another spelling of §54-13(A)(2) (Moving violation (non-hazardous) while driving a taxi).

§54-13(A0(1)Old rule — replaced2 charges · 2015

Parking or standing violation while driving a taxi — another spelling of §54-13(A)(1) (Parking or standing violation while driving a taxi).

§54-13(B)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(b)11 charges · 2013–2015

Drove while collecting workers' compensation for a work injury

A driver with a disabling work injury who filed for workers' compensation had to surrender their taxi driver license to the TLC and stop driving while claiming the disability. The license came back once the driver showed they had recovered and were no longer receiving benefits. This charge usually means driving while on workers' comp. Today the rule is §80-13(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $75–$150. Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(b)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(B)(1)(I)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(b)2 charges · 2015

Did not surrender TLC license while on workers' compensation

Under the workers' compensation rule, a driver who suffered a disabling work injury and filed for benefits had to surrender their taxi driver license to the TLC. This charge says the driver kept the license while claiming the disability. Today the rule is in §80-13(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $75–$150 (box covers all of §54-13(b)). Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(b)(1)(i)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(C)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-17(g)1 charge

MTA tax required on taxi trips

Section 54-13(c)(1) required the MTA tax to be charged on every taxi trip that starts in New York City and ends in NYC or in Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk or Westchester County. A charge under this code relates to collecting that tax. The final chapter 54 text has no specific fine box for it. Today the MTA tax rule is §80-17(g).

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(c)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(C)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-13(c)(1)1 charge

MTA tax: driver did not pay the collected tax over

Section 54-13(c) required a driver who is not the taxpayer to pay the owner (the taxpayer) the MTA tax collected on each trip, and a green cab driver to pay it to the affiliated base. A charge under (c)(2) relates to the driver keeping or not passing on the MTA tax. The text has no specific fine box for it. Today the pay-over rule is §80-13(c)(1).

Former 35 RCNY §54-13(c)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13(M)(1)Code we couldn't match exactly3 charges · 2013

Unclear code: 54-13 has no subdivision (m)

Section 54-13 (traffic laws, workers' comp, MTA tax) had no subdivision (m). This code is most likely a mistype of 54-15(m)(1), the off-duty rule (keying "Personal Use–Off Duty" into the taxi's technology system and turning on the off-duty light), which was often charged in the same period. Check the summons narrative to confirm.

Former 35 RCNY §54-13 (no subdivision (m)); possibly §54-15(m)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-13A

§54-13A(2)Old rule — replaced4 charges · 2013

Moving violation (non-hazardous) while driving a taxi — another spelling of §54-13(A)(2) (Moving violation (non-hazardous) while driving a taxi).

§54-13A1

§54-13A1Old rule — replaced11 charges · 2013

Parking or standing violation while driving a taxi — another spelling of §54-13(A)(1) (Parking or standing violation while driving a taxi).

§54-13A2

§54-13A2Old rule — replaced18 charges · 2013

Moving violation (non-hazardous) while driving a taxi — another spelling of §54-13(A)(2) (Moving violation (non-hazardous) while driving a taxi).

§54-13A3

§54-13A3Old rule — replaced1 charge · 2013

Hazardous moving violation while driving a taxi (item not specified) — another spelling of §54-13(A)(3) (Hazardous moving violation while driving a taxi (item not specified)).

§54-13A3VI

§54-13A3VIOld rule — replaced3 charges · 2013

Failed to yield the right of way — another spelling of §54-13(A)(3)(VI) (Failed to yield the right of way).

§54-13A3XII

§54-14

§54-14Old rule — replaced by 80-1413 charges · 2014

Passenger and driver safety rule (subsection not specified)

Section 54-14 covered safety: reckless driving, driving while impaired, drug testing, the 12-hour driving limit, and using a phone or other electronic device while driving. The summons did not say which subsection was charged, so the penalty can't be told from the code alone. Today the rules are in §80-14.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(A)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(A)5,881 charges · 2013–2018

Reckless driving

A driver must not operate the vehicle in a way that would violate NY Vehicle and Traffic Law §1212 (reckless driving). The 2011 text described it as driving in a manner or at a speed that unreasonably endangers other drivers, pedestrians or passengers. A hearing was required, with a possible suspension, and revocation for more than three violations in 18 months. Today the rule is §80-14(a).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $350–$1,000 and/or suspension up to 30 days, or revocation if found guilty more than three times within 18 months. Appearance required.
Points
4

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(a)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(A)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(A)2 charges · 2013

Reckless driving rule cited with a paragraph that did not exist

Section 54-14(a), the reckless driving rule, had no numbered paragraphs, so "(a)(2)" does not match the text. It is most likely a reckless driving charge written with an extra number. If so, the penalty was $350–$1,000 and/or suspension up to 30 days, with 4 points. Check the summons narrative.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(a) (paragraph (2) not found)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(A416423)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(A)1 charge

Reckless driving code with extra digits attached

This looks like 54-14(a), the taxi reckless driving rule, with a string of digits typed into the parentheses (possibly part of a summons or license number). Section 54-14(a) barred driving in a way that violates NY Vehicle and Traffic Law §1212; it carried $350–$1,000 and/or up to 30 days' suspension, and 4 points. Check the summons to confirm.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(a) (most likely)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(B)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(b)28 charges · 2015

Drove while impaired by alcohol or drugs

A driver must not operate the vehicle while their driving ability is impaired by alcohol (of any strength) or while under the influence of drugs. This is among the most serious TLC charges: the penalty is revocation of the license, and a hearing was required. Today the rule is §80-14(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): Revocation (box covers all of §54-14(b)). Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(b)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(B)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(b)21 charges · 2013–2016

Drove or sat in the taxi within 6 hours of drinking or drug use

A driver must not drive, or even occupy, the vehicle for at least six hours after drinking any alcohol or taking drugs. This is stricter than ordinary impaired-driving law because it does not need proof of impairment. The penalty was revocation of the license. Today the rule is §80-14(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): Revocation (box covers all of §54-14(b)). Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(b)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(C)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(c)24 charges · 2013–2015

Did not take a for-cause drug test

If the TLC reasonably suspected a driver had used a drug that made them unfit to drive safely, it could order a drug test at the driver's expense by a state-licensed, TLC-approved tester, and the driver had to comply. This charge says the driver did not take the ordered test. Today the rule is §80-14(c).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): Suspension until compliance or revocation of license. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(c)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(C)(2)(III)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(D)(3)1 charge

Missed the annual drug test (first year of license)

Taxi drivers had to pass a drug test every year. For drivers in the first year of a license, the test had to happen within 90 days before the license's one-year anniversary and no later than that date (30 days in the 2011 version, for two-year licenses). Missing it meant summary suspension until the test was done, plus a fine if more than 30 days late. Today the rule is §80-14(d)(3).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): Summary suspension until compliance; $200 if compliance is more than 30 days after the deadline. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(c)(2)(iii)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(D)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(f)18 charges · 2013

Drove more than 12 hours in a row

A driver must not operate the vehicle for more than 12 consecutive hours. This fatigue rule carried a small fine. Today the hours rule is §80-14(f), which uses daily and weekly limits on time spent carrying passengers.

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $25. Appearance not required.
Points
1 in the 2011 and 2014 versions of chapter 54; none listed in the final (2016) version

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(d)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(E)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(g)2 charges · 2014

Used a phone or electronic device while driving (paragraph not specified)

Section 54-14(e) barred taxi and green cab drivers from using a phone or other electronic communication device while driving, including hands-free use, and required a distracted-driving course after a conviction. The charge did not name the paragraph; it is usually (e)(1). The usual penalty was $250/$350 with 3 points (4 for a third in 15 months). Today the rule is §80-14(g).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $250 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $350 if found guilty following a hearing for (e)(1), plus a Distracted Driving Course within 60 days of conviction. Appearance not required.
Points
3 for the first and second offense in any 15 months; 4 for the third

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(e)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14(E)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(G)(1)29,058 charges · 2012–2018

Used a phone or electronic device while driving

A taxi or green cab driver must not use a phone or other electronic communication device while driving; use is allowed only when the vehicle is lawfully standing or parked. TLC's definition covers hands-free use too, such as an earpiece. A conviction also required a distracted-driving course within 60 days or the license was suspended. Today the rule is §80-14(g)(1).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $250 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $350 if found guilty following a hearing; plus a Distracted Driving Course within 60 days of conviction or suspension until completed. Appearance not required.
Points
3 for the first and second offense in any 15 months; 4 for the third

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(e)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16) Full explanation

§54-14(E)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-14(g)(2)5 charges · 2013

Did not finish the distracted-driving course after a phone conviction

A driver convicted of using a phone while driving had to complete a Distracted Driving Course within 60 days of the conviction. If not, the TLC license was suspended until the course was done and proof was given. This charge relates to that course requirement. Today the rule is §80-14(g)(2).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): Suspension until compliance if the course is not completed within 60 days of conviction (stated in the rule text). Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14(e)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14A7I

§54-14A7ICode we couldn't match exactly2 charges · 2013

Unclear safety code (54-14 with A7I)

Section 54-14 (passenger and driver safety) had no item (a)(7)(i); subdivision (a), reckless driving, has no paragraphs at all. The code may be a mistype of another rule. The 54-14 rules covered reckless driving, impaired driving, drug testing, the 12-hour limit and phone use. Check the summons narrative for the real charge.

Former 35 RCNY §54-14 (item (a)(7)(i) not found)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-14E

§54-14E(1)Old rule — replaced13 charges · 2016–2017

Used a phone or electronic device while driving — another spelling of §54-14(E)(1) (Used a phone or electronic device while driving).

§54-14E1

§54-14E1Old rule — replaced2 charges · 2013

Used a phone or electronic device while driving — another spelling of §54-14(E)(1) (Used a phone or electronic device while driving).

§54-15

§54-15Old rule — replaced by 80-1523 charges

General rule for operating a taxi (subsection not specified)

Section 54-15 held the everyday operating rules for taxi and green cab drivers: no weapons, neat appearance, no smoking, no locking passengers out, E-ZPass, no overloading, front-seat use, courtesy, and off-duty and unavailable procedures. The summons did not say which subsection was charged, so the penalty can't be told from the code alone. Today most of these are in §80-15 and §80-25.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15((L)Old rule — replaced1 charge

Discourteous to a passenger — another spelling of §54-15(L) (Discourteous to a passenger).

§54-15(A)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(A)30 charges · 2013–2016

Had a weapon in the taxi

While operating a taxi or green cab, a driver must not have a weapon, or anything meant to be used as a weapon, on them or in the vehicle without the TLC Chairperson's written permission. The penalty is revocation of the license, and a hearing was required. Today the rule is §80-15(a).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): Revocation. Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(a)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(B)Old rule — repealed181 charges · 2013–2016

Driver not neat and clean

A taxi or green cab driver must be clean and neat in dress and person and present a professional appearance. This charge is about the driver's own appearance, not the vehicle's. It carried a small fine. The current driver chapter (80) does not have a matching rule.

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $25. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(b)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(C)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(B)3,344 charges · 2013–2017

Smoked in the taxi

A driver must not smoke in a taxi or green cab, whether or not passengers are aboard. A hearing was required for this charge. Today the rule is §80-15(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $150. Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(c)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(D)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(C)296 charges · 2013–2014

Locked the taxi doors against passengers

While on duty a driver must not lock either rear door unless a passenger agrees or asks, or a rule allows it. Front doors could be locked, but a driver could not refuse a party of four (where one must sit in front) because the front door was locked. Locked doors are often a sign of choosing passengers. Today the rule is §80-15(c).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $300 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $400 and/or suspension up to 30 days if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance required.
Points
2

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(d)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(D)(1Old rule — replaced1 charge

Locked the rear doors while on duty — another spelling of §54-15(D)(1) (Locked the rear doors while on duty).

§54-15(D)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(C)(1)3,295 charges · 2013–2017

Locked the rear doors while on duty

While on duty, a taxi or green cab driver must not lock either rear door unless the passenger consents or asks, or a rule gives a reason. For example, keeping the rear doors locked so street passengers cannot get in. Today the rule is §80-15(c)(1), which also distinguishes whether the passenger was inside or outside.

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $300 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $400 and/or suspension up to 30 days if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance required. (box covers all of §54-15(d)).
Points
2

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(d)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(D)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(C)(2)5 charges · 2013

Refused a party of four because the front door was locked

Drivers were allowed to lock the front doors, but must not refuse to take a party of four, where one person has to sit in the front, because the front door is locked. This charge says the driver turned away such a group. Today the rule is §80-15(c)(2), which treats the refusal as a front-seat violation.

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $300 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $400 and/or suspension up to 30 days if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance required. (box covers all of §54-15(d)).
Points
2

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(d)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(E)Code we couldn't match exactly26 charges · 2013

Reserved subsection (no rule text at 54-15(e))

Subdivision 54-15(e) is marked "(Reserved)" in every version of chapter 54 we found (2011, 2014 and the final 2016 text), so there was no rule there to violate. A charge under this code is probably a mistype, possibly of 54-14(e) (phone use) or 54-15(f) (E-ZPass). Check the summons narrative for the actual conduct.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(e) (reserved)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(E)(1)Code we couldn't match exactly3 charges · 2013

Reserved subsection (no rule text at 54-15(e)(1))

Subdivision 54-15(e) is marked "(Reserved)" in all versions of chapter 54 we found, so "(e)(1)" has no rule text behind it. It is most likely a mistype, possibly of 54-14(e)(1), the phone-while-driving rule, or of 54-15(f)(1), the E-ZPass rule. Check the summons narrative.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(e) (reserved)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(F)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(D)(1)325 charges · 2013–2017

Drove for hire without an E-ZPass tag

A taxi or green cab driver must not operate the vehicle for hire unless it has an E-ZPass tag. Drivers could use their own personal tag to meet the rule. Today the rule is §80-15(d)(1).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $150 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $200 if found guilty following a hearing (box for §54-15(f)(1)-(3)). Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(f)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(F)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(D)(2)313 charges · 2013–2017

Did not use E-ZPass at a bridge or tunnel

A taxi or green cab driver had to use E-ZPass at every MTA bridge and tunnel crossing and anywhere else E-ZPass was accepted, rather than paying cash. This keeps tolls lower for passengers. Today the rule is §80-15(d)(2).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $150 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $200 if found guilty following a hearing (box for §54-15(f)(1)-(3)). Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(f)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(F)(3)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(d)(3)37 charges · 2013–2014

E-ZPass rule: use of a personal tag

Paragraph (f)(3) said drivers may use their personal E-ZPass tags to meet the E-ZPass requirement. It permits rather than forbids, so a charge under it is really about the E-ZPass requirement in (f)(1)-(2): drive for hire only with a tag and use it at crossings. The fine box covers (f)(1) to (f)(3).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $150 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $200 if found guilty following a hearing (box for §54-15(f)(1)-(3)). Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(f)(3)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(F)(4)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(d)(4)1 charge

Did not pass passenger-paid tolls on to the E-ZPass holder

At the end of a shift or lease, the driver had to forward all tolls paid by passengers to whoever holds the E-ZPass tag (often the cab owner or fleet). This charge says the driver kept those toll payments. The driver also had to repay any unpaid amount. Today the rule is §80-15(d)(4).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $50 plus restitution to the E-ZPass tag holder of any amount not reimbursed, and suspension until compliance (box for §54-15(f)(4)-(5)). Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(f)(4)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(F)(5)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(d)(5)5 charges · 2014–2016

Did not keep the E-ZPass replenishment account funded

If the cab owner required the driver to set up an E-ZPass replenishment account (under owner rule §58-27(d)(2)), the driver had to keep the required balance in it. This charge says the balance ran short. The license could be suspended until fixed. Today the rule is §80-15(d)(5).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $50 plus restitution to the E-ZPass tag holder of any amount not reimbursed, and suspension until compliance (box for §54-15(f)(4)-(5)). Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(f)(5)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(G)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(E)59 charges · 2013–2017

Too many passengers in the taxi

A driver must not allow more than four passengers in a four-passenger taxi, or more than five in a five-passenger one. One extra passenger had to be accepted if under 7 and held on an adult's lap in the back. Green cabs could not carry more than the seats shown on the DMV registration. Today the rule is §80-15(e).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(g)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(H)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(f)1 charge · 2013

Did not let a passenger use the front seat

A driver must let a passenger ride in the front seat if they cannot get into or ride in the back, or if luggage, a wheelchair, crutches or other property fills the back seat. The fine was lower when the violation involved luggage rather than a person. Today the rule is §80-15(f).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $75 for a violation involving a person; $25 for a violation involving luggage. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(h)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(H)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(f)141 charges · 2013–2016

Did not let a passenger who can't use the back seat sit in front

A passenger who is unable to get into or ride in the rear seat (for example because of a disability or injury) must be allowed to sit in the front passenger seat. This charge says the driver refused. Today the rule is §80-15(f).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $75 for a violation involving a person (box covers all of §54-15(h)). Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(h)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(H)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(f)1 charge · 2013

Did not allow front-seat riding when the back was full of luggage

If a passenger's luggage, wheelchair, crutches, other mobility aid or other property took up the rear seats, the passenger had to be allowed to ride in the front seat. This charge says the driver refused. Today the rule is §80-15(f).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $25 for a violation involving luggage; $75 if it involved a person (box covers all of §54-15(h)). Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(h)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(I)Old rule — repealed21 charges · 2013–2015

Carried packages with no passenger

A taxi or green cab driver must not transport property (packages, deliveries) unless the property is with a passenger. The only exception is blood or vital human organs. This charge says the cab was used as a delivery vehicle. The current driver chapter (80) does not have a matching rule.

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(i)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(J)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(g)2 charges · 2016

Sold or advertised something to passengers

A driver must not sell, advertise or recommend any service or product to passengers without the TLC's written approval. Green cab drivers could promote their own base's services. This charge says the driver marketed something to a passenger. Today the rule is §80-15(g).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $50–$350 and/or suspension up to 30 days. Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(j)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(K)(1)Old rule — repealed10 charges · 2013

Drove a taxi without being listed on its rate card

In the 2011–2014 versions, a driver must not operate a taxi unless either the driver's name was entered on the cab's rate card by the TLC (and any lease had not expired), or the rate card said "Unspecified Drivers". This made sure only authorized drivers used each medallion. It did not apply to green cabs. The paragraph was dropped from the final 2016 text.

Fine (published)
2014 version of chapter 54: $100–$350; for the third or subsequent violation within 36 months the license may also be suspended for up to 30 days. Appearance required.
Points
1

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(k)(1)TLC Rules, Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (copy archived May 2014, Wayback Machine)

§54-15(K)(1)(I)Old rule — repealed13 charges · 2013

Driver's name not on the taxi's rate card

Item (k)(1)(i) of the 2011–2014 text: a driver could operate a taxi only if the TLC had entered the driver's name on the rate card and, for a leased cab, the lease had not expired (unless the card said "Unspecified Drivers"). This charge says the driver was not listed or the lease had run out. The rule was later dropped.

Fine (published)
2014 version of chapter 54 (box for §54-15(k)(1)): $100–$350; for the third or subsequent violation within 36 months the license may also be suspended for up to 30 days. Appearance required.
Points
1

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(k)(1)(i)TLC Rules, Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (copy archived May 2014, Wayback Machine)

§54-15(K)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(H)4 charges

Subleased a leased taxi

A driver who leases a taxi must not sublease it to another driver. In the final text the sublease ban is printed as (k)(1) but its penalty box is labeled (k)(2), the number it had in the 2011–2014 texts. It did not apply to green cabs. Today the rule is §80-15(h).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100–$350; for the third or subsequent violation within 36 months the license may also be suspended for up to 30 days. Appearance required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(k)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(L)Old rule — replaced by 80-15(I)11,392 charges · 2011–2017

Discourteous to a passenger

A driver must be courteous to passengers. This charge usually comes from a passenger complaint about rude language, yelling or hostile behavior short of threats or harassment (those are §54-12(f)). It carried points. Today the rule is §80-15(i).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $200 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $300 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.
Points
2

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(l)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(M(1)Old rule — replaced1 charge

Used the taxi off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty" — another spelling of §54-15(M)(1) (Used the taxi off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty").

§54-15(M)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(B)11 charges

Taxi off-duty procedures not followed (paragraph not specified)

Section 54-15(m) set off-duty procedures for taxis: when using the cab for personal use, the driver had to key "Personal Use–Off Duty" into the taxi's technology system (T-PEP) or the written trip record, and use the proper off-duty light or code. The summons did not name the paragraph. Today the log-off rule is §80-25(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required. (same box for (m)(1) and (m)(2) in the final text).

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(m)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(M)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(B)14,196 charges · 2013–2019

Used the taxi off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty"

When a taxi was used for personal (off-duty) driving, the driver had to key "Personal Use–Off Duty" into the T-PEP system (or write it on the trip record). Before the TLC's Off Duty Change Date, the driver also had to turn on the off-duty roof light. Port Authority Police wrote many of these at the airports. Today the rule is §80-25(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(m)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(M)(1)(I)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(B)129 charges · 2013

Off duty: did not log personal use or turn on the off-duty light

Item (m)(1)(i) applied before the TLC's "Off Duty Change Date": when driving the taxi for personal use, the driver had to key "Personal Use–Off Duty" into T-PEP (or the written trip record) and turn on the "Off Duty" roof light. These charges all date from 2013, before the change. Today the log-off rule is §80-25(b).

Fine (published)
2014 version of chapter 54 (box for §54-15(m)(1)): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(m)(1)(i)TLC Rules, Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (copy archived May 2014, Wayback Machine)

§54-15(M)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(B)144 charges · 2013–2014

Off-duty light or code used improperly

Paragraph (m)(2) said how a driver could go off duty: before the Off Duty Change Date, only by a manually operated switch on the dashboard; after it, by entering the proper off-duty code into T-PEP. This charge says the off-duty status was set the wrong way, for example to avoid passengers. Today the rule is §80-25(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required. The 2011 version had a flat $75.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(m)(2)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(M)(2)(I)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(B)25 charges · 2013

Off-duty light not turned on by the dashboard switch

Item (m)(2)(i) applied before the TLC's Off Duty Change Date: a driver could turn on the "Off Duty" light only with the manually operated switch on the taxi's dashboard. These charges date from 2013. Today the log-off rule is §80-25(b).

Fine (published)
2014 version of chapter 54 (box for §54-15(m)(2)): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(m)(2)(i)TLC Rules, Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (copy archived May 2014, Wayback Machine)

§54-15(N)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(C)33 charges · 2014–2016

Did not set the taxi to "unavailable" after accepting a dispatch or e-hail

After accepting a trip through the accessible dispatch program (§53-08) or an approved e-hail app, a taxi driver had to enter the on-duty "unavailable" code into T-PEP, so the cab would not look free to street hails. This charge says the driver did not. Today the rule is §80-25(c).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(n)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(O)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(B)494 charges · 2014–2017

Green cab used off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty"

When a green Street Hail Livery was used for personal driving, the driver had to press the off-duty button on the taximeter and key "Personal Use–Off Duty" into the green cab's technology system (LPEP) or the written trip record. This charge says that was not done. Today the log-off rule is §80-25(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing (box for §54-15(o)(1)). Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(o)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15(Q)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-25(C)26 charges · 2015–2016

Green cab not set to "unavailable" after accepting a booked trip

After accepting a pre-arranged trip or an e-hail trip, a green Street Hail Livery driver had to enter the on-duty "unavailable" code into the LPEP system. That keeps the car from appearing free for street hails while heading to a booked pickup. Today the rule is §80-25(c).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-15(q)(1)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-15D1

§54-15D1Old rule — replaced4 charges · 2013

Locked the rear doors while on duty — another spelling of §54-15(D)(1) (Locked the rear doors while on duty).

§54-15M

§54-15M(1)Old rule — replaced1 charge · 2013

Used the taxi off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty" — another spelling of §54-15(M)(1) (Used the taxi off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty").

§54-15M1

§54-15M1Old rule — replaced11 charges · 2013

Used the taxi off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty" — another spelling of §54-15(M)(1) (Used the taxi off duty without logging "Personal Use–Off Duty").

§54-16

§54-16Old rule — replaced by 80-169 charges

Did not comply with a passenger request (subsection not specified)

Section 54-16 required taxi and green cab drivers to honor reasonable passenger requests: route, change of destination, loading luggage, giving a receipt, adjusting audio and climate, and giving name and license numbers. The summons did not say which subsection was charged, so the fine can't be told from the code alone. Today the rules are in §80-16.

Former 35 RCNY §54-16TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-16(A)Old rule — replaced by 80-16(A)6,510 charges · 2013–2017

Did not take the requested or shortest route

A driver must follow a passenger's reasonable, lawful route requests, and if none is given, take the shortest reasonable route to the destination. This applied to taxis and to street-hail trips in green cabs. Charges often follow a long-route or "took the long way" complaint. Today the rule is §80-16(a).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $100 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $150 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-16(a)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-16(A)(1)Old rule — replaced by 80-16(A)1 charge

Route rule cited with a paragraph that did not exist

Section 54-16(a) (follow the passenger's route request, otherwise the shortest reasonable route) had no numbered paragraphs, so "(a)(1)" is most likely just 54-16(a) with an extra number. If so, the fine was $100 if you pleaded guilty before a hearing or $150 if found guilty. Check the summons narrative.

Former 35 RCNY §54-16(a) (most likely)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-16(A)(2)Old rule — replaced by 80-16(A)2 charges · 2013

Route rule cited as (a)(2), which did not exist

Section 54-16(a) had no paragraph (2); it simply required following the passenger's reasonable route requests or, if none, the shortest reasonable route. This code from 2013 is most likely a route charge under 54-16(a), with a $100/$150 fine. It could also be a mistype of another rule. Check the summons narrative.

Former 35 RCNY §54-16(a) (most likely)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-16(B)Old rule — replaced by 80-16(B)381 charges · 2013–2017

Did not change destination or end the trip when asked

Passengers may ask to change their destination or end the ride during the trip, and the driver must comply unless it is impossible or unsafe. The passenger pays what the meter shows at the end. For pre-arranged green cab trips, a change could mean a different fare. Today the rule is §80-16(b).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $50–$200. Appearance required.
Points
2 in the 2011 and 2014 versions of chapter 54; none listed in the final (2016) version

Former 35 RCNY §54-16(b)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-16(C)Old rule — replaced by 80-16(C)514 charges · 2013–2017

Did not load or unload luggage when asked

When a passenger asks, the driver must load or unload their luggage, wheelchair, crutches or other property into or out of the cab or trunk, and close the door or trunk securely. Port Authority Police wrote many of these at the airports. Today the rule is §80-16(c).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $50. Appearance not required.

Former 35 RCNY §54-16(c)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

§54-16(D)Old rule — replaced by 80-16(D)1,222 charges · 2013–2017

Did not offer or give a receipt

At the end of a trip the driver had to offer a receipt (personally, on the rear-seat screen or electronically) and give one whenever a passenger asked. The receipt had to show items like date, time, medallion or green cab number, trip number, fare, tolls, surcharges, tip, the driver's license number and the 311 complaint number. Today the rule is §80-16(d).

Fine (published)
Last version of chapter 54 (effective through 10/25/16): $50 if pleaded guilty before a hearing; $75 if found guilty following a hearing. Appearance not required.
Points
1

Former 35 RCNY §54-16(d)TLC Rules, former Chapter 54 — Drivers of Taxicabs and Street Hail Liveries (final version, effective through 10/25/16)

Fines and points are shown only where they were checked against the official penalty text. Counts come from NYC Open Data — OATH Hearings Division Case Status; some dates in that data are entry errors. Look up your summons to see the charges on it, or scan it for a plain-English explanation.