How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a TLC License?

You must be at least 19 years old to apply for a TLC Driver License. Rule 80-04(a) says so, and TLC's Get a TLC Driver License page lists "Minimum age: 19" first. New York's chauffeur license (Class E) has a lower minimum of 18, so an 18-year-old can get the DMV license first but must wait until 19 for TLC.

Age is only the first check. TLC also looks at your DMV license class and your driving record.

Two licenses, two different ages

You need two licenses to drive for hire in New York City:

• A chauffeur's license from the DMV. In New York that is a Class E, or a commercial Class A, B or C. The NYS DMV page says you must be 18 or older for Class E. To switch from Class D, you surrender the D, apply and pay (the DMV says the fee depends on your current license's expiration date), and pass a vision test or prove you meet the vision rules. See the Class E chauffeur license.
• The TLC Driver License. Minimum age 19 (rule 80-04(a)).

So getting the Class E at 18 is a sensible first step, but the TLC application has to wait for your 19th birthday.

What TLC checks besides age

TLC's requirements page (checked October 12, 2026) lists who is qualified:

Points and how they affect a TLC license are explained in TLC license and DMV points. If your DMV license is from another state, you also need the ID-5 / FS-6T step at a NYS DMV office. See out-of-state drivers: ID-5 and FS-6T.

Is there an upper age limit?

The TLC rules we read set a minimum age only. Chapter 80 does not list a maximum. Instead, rule 80-04(e) requires every applicant to be "of sound mental and physical condition and fit to safely operate a vehicle," certified by a licensed physician on TLC's form. TLC can, for good cause, require an exam by a doctor it chooses, and an existing license can be suspended or revoked if a driver fails to be examined.

What to do next

1. If you are 18, get the Class E at the DMV.
2. On or after your 19th birthday, apply in LARS. The $252 fee covers a three-year license (TLC page, October 12, 2026).
3. Within 90 days, finish the drug test, fingerprints, courses and exam.

The full process is in how to get a TLC license. Wondering about language? See do I need English for a TLC license. Once licensed, you must report certain changes to TLC: see what do I have to report to TLC. Thinking about which kind of driving you'll do? Can a paratransit driver drive a green cab explains how the paratransit license differs. More on the licensing hub.

General information, not legal advice. Checked against TLC's driver license page, rule 80-04 and the NYS DMV Class E page on October 12, 2026.