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A taximeter is the meter in a yellow taxi or green cab: the TLC-approved device that calculates and shows the fare. TLC's definitions chapter says it is "an instrument or device approved by the Commission that automatically calculates and plainly indicates the charge to a passenger for hire of a Taxicab or Street Hail Livery" (Chapter 51). Only meters made by a licensed Taximeter Manufacturer may be used, and licensed Taximeter Businesses install, repair, test and seal them.
For-hire vehicles (black cars, liveries, Uber and Lyft) do not use taximeters; their fares are set by the base or app.
What the meter charges (as of 2026-10-12)
The standard metered rate is $3.00 to start, plus 70 cents per 1/5 mile when moving above 12 mph, or 70 cents per 60 seconds in slow traffic or when stopped. Surcharges such as the $1.00 improvement surcharge, the 50-cent MTA State Surcharge and the congestion charges are added on top (TLC taxi fare). See rate of fare and the night surcharge.
How metered trips compare
Where drivers meet the term
- Starting the meter: on a hail trip, put it in "Hired" as soon as the passenger enters — rule 80-26(b)(1), $200 fine and 1 point. With a passenger who has a disability, don't start it while helping them in.
- JFK flat fare: key the flat-fare trip into the technology system (80-26(b)(4)).
- End of trip: switch to "Time Off," tell the passenger the fare, then clear the meter to "Vacant."
- Defective meter: don't pick up passengers; if it breaks mid-trip, follow 80-26(a)(2)–(4).
- Receipt paper: the meter must have paper for printing receipts before you pick anyone up (80-26(a)(6), $25 fine).
- Seals and tampering: driving with broken or tampered meter seals is a $100 violation (80-26(a)(5)); connecting an unauthorized device or tampering with the meter's seals or wiring falls under 80-26(c), with fines of $50–$350, a possible suspension of up to 30 days and 3 points.
- Owners: the meter must be tested for accuracy at least once every 12 months — rule 58-39(e)(3)(i).
Try the meter math yourself: taxi fare estimator. More money terms in the money hub.
Frequently asked questions
What is a taximeter under TLC rules?
TLC Chapter 51 defines it as 'an instrument or device approved by the Commission that automatically calculates and plainly indicates the charge to a passenger for hire of a Taxicab or Street Hail Livery.'
When must I start the meter?
On a hail trip, as soon as the passenger gets in. Rule 80-26(b)(1) says you must immediately put the taximeter in the 'Hired' position and keep it there until the destination. The fine is $200 and 1 point.
What if the meter breaks during a trip?
Tell the passenger right away and offer to continue at a reasonable fare you both agree on, or to end the trip and pay what the meter showed (rule 80-26(a)(2)). Then log off, lock the rear doors and take the cab to the garage, base or a licensed meter shop.
Are Flex Fare trips metered?
No. TLC defines a Flex Fare trip as an e-hail with an upfront, non-metered, binding fare set before dispatch.
Sources
Last reviewed against the official sources on .
- TLC Rule Book, Chapter 51 (definitions) nyc.gov
- TLC Rule Book, Chapter 80 (§80-26 taximeters and roof lights) nyc.gov
- TLC Rule Book, Chapter 58 (§58-39 taximeter inspection) nyc.gov
- NYC TLC: Taxi Fare nyc.gov
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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.