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A directive is a written demand from TLC asking you to answer questions or send information or documents. TLC's 2023 rule notice describes them as "demands for information from the TLC (known as 'directives')" (TLC). A directive is not a summons. But ignoring a directive is itself a violation, and that summons can suspend your license until you comply.
What the rules require
- Drivers must "truthfully answer all questions and promptly comply with all communications, directives, and summonses" from TLC or its representatives, including the NYC Department of Investigation, and produce licenses, rate cards, trip records or other required documents on request (§80-12(i)(1)–(2)).
- FHV vehicle owners must comply with directives, produce required documents within five business days, and respond to any TLC contact within 48 hours, seven days a week (§59A-13(j)).
The 2023 rule cut the document deadline for owners, bases and street hail liveries from 10 to five business days (TLC rule notice).
How it usually starts
A common path for owners is insurance. TLC says expired or cancelled insurance "may result in a TLC directive to submit proof of updated insurance coverage," and if the directive is ignored it "can escalate to a summons," with the vehicle license "suspended until compliance" (TLC: Vehicle Insurance). That is why keeping your FH-1 current matters; our FHV insurance requirements guide lists what TLC expects.
How often the owner rule is charged
The OATH record (NYC Open Data) shows this owner charge in the thousands each year since 2017. Details of the charge are on the §59A-13(j)(1) page. If your license is already suspended, see how to lift a TLC suspension.
If you get one
- Read what is asked and the deadline. Answer in writing and keep proof of what you sent and when.
- Keep your mailing and email address current: TLC says a communication is sufficient if sent to the last address you gave, and you must report changes within ten days (§80-12(i)(3)).
- If the directive is about possible misconduct, talk to a lawyer before answering — but don't let the deadline pass. If a suspension already started, see TLC license suspended: what to do.
Frequently asked questions
What is a TLC directive?
TLC describes directives as demands for information from the TLC. Driver rule §80-12(i)(1) requires drivers to promptly comply with all communications, directives and summonses from TLC or its representatives, including the NYC Department of Investigation.
How long do I have to answer?
For FHV owners (§59A-13(j)(2)), bases, HVFHS and street hail liveries, TLC's 2023 rule set five business days to produce requested licenses or documents, down from ten. FHV owners must also respond to any TLC contact within 48 hours (§59A-13(j)(3)).
What is the penalty for ignoring a directive?
For drivers under §80-12(i)(1)-(2) and FHV owners under §59A-13(j)(1)-(2), the penalty box lists a $300 fine and suspension until compliance. Appearance is required.
I never got the directive. Does that matter?
TLC rules say a communication is sufficient if sent to the last mailing address you gave TLC, and drivers must report an address change within ten days (§80-12(i)(3)). Keep your address current.
Sources
Last reviewed against the official sources on .
- TLC Rule Book, Chapter 80 (§80-12(i)) nyc.gov
- TLC Rule Book, Chapter 59 (§59A-13(j)) nyc.gov
- TLC Notice of Promulgation (adopted May 3, 2023) nyc.gov
- TLC: Vehicle Insurance nyc.gov
- NYC Open Data: OATH Hearings Division Case Status (jz4z-kudi) data.cityofnewyork.us
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we'll check it against the official source.
TLC Help is not a law firm and is not affiliated with the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission or OATH. Explanations on this site are general information, not legal advice. Legal representation is provided by independent attorneys and OATH-registered representatives in our network.