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A settlement is a written deal with TLC that closes your summons on agreed terms, usually a set fine, instead of going to a hearing. TLC's rules say the Chairperson and a respondent "may dispose of a summons by entering into a settlement agreement" (35 RCNY §68-20(a)).
Settlements come from TLC, not OATH. OATH says settlements "are offered by the agency that issued you the summons, not OATH" (OATH).
Getting an offer
TLC says you may get a settlement offer by mail, with a reduced fine, before or after a summons is issued. If you have not received one, you can visit TLC in Long Island City or email Settlements@tlc.nyc.gov. "Settlement offers will not be given over the phone" (TLC). Not every summons gets an offer.
What the agreement can and can't do
From §68-20(a):
- It must be in writing.
- It may set penalties different from the penalties in the rules.
- It may cancel a hearing that is open or already completed at OATH; TLC then tells OATH.
- It may allow penalties to be imposed, with or without a further hearing, if you don't comply.
- Unless it says otherwise, if you don't comply, TLC can suspend your license without a hearing until you do.
- Both sides give up any further hearing or appeal on that summons.
Settle or fight?
TLC itself warns: "if you have a hearing and the judge does not believe your side of the story, the fine you receive may be higher than the settlement previously offered" (TLC). Many penalty boxes in TLC's rules also show a lower fine "if plead guilty before a hearing" — that's a guilty plea, not a settlement.
Ask any offer two questions before you sign: does it include points or a suspension, and what is the payment deadline? Points can add up toward the Persistent Violator limits.
Settlement vs withdrawal
A settlement is something you agree to. A withdrawal is TLC dropping the summons on its own — for example because it was written in error — and any fine paid is refunded.
More detail: TLC settlement offers, paying TLC fines and payment options. Weigh your choices with should I fight my TLC summons?
Frequently asked questions
What is a TLC settlement?
A written agreement between you and the TLC Chairperson that disposes of a summons. It can set penalties different from those in the rules (35 RCNY §68-20(a)).
Does OATH offer settlements?
No. OATH says settlements are offered by the agency that issued the summons, not OATH. For TLC summonses, that means TLC.
How do I ask for a settlement offer?
TLC says you may receive an offer by mail before or after a summons is issued. If you haven't, you can visit TLC in Long Island City or email Settlements@tlc.nyc.gov. TLC does not give settlement offers by phone.
Can I appeal after I settle?
No. By signing, both you and TLC waive any further hearings or appeals on that summons (35 RCNY §68-20(a)(6)).
What if I don't keep up with the settlement terms?
Unless the agreement says otherwise, TLC can suspend your license without a hearing until you comply. The agreement can also allow penalties to be imposed with or without a further hearing.
Sources
Last reviewed against the official sources on .
- TLC Rule Book, Chapter 68 (§68-20 Settlements and Withdrawals) nyc.gov
- TLC: Received a Drivers License Summons? nyc.gov
- OATH: Hearings and Defaults nyc.gov
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.