Essential guide for Car Service and Livery base operators. Learn requirements, vehicle flexibility, and how to maintain compliance without interrupting service.
Livery and Car Service bases serve traditional neighborhood transportation needs, providing essential services in areas where app-based platforms may be less prevalent. These bases offer more flexibility in vehicle requirements while maintaining TLC compliance.
| Passenger Capacity | Liability Minimum | PIP (2025 Update) | Property Damage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-7 passengers | $100,000/$300,000 | $100,000* | $50,000 |
| 8-20 passengers | $200,000/$500,000 | $100,000* | $100,000 |
*PIP Reduction: Lowered from $200,000 to $100,000 per person effective 2025.Source: Official TLC Vehicle Insurance Requirements
Get policy with proper limits for your vehicle class
Insurance carrier submits to NY DMV
5-10 business days typical processing
Submit approved FH-1 for license renewal
Begin renewal process 90 days before expiration
Ensure continuous coverage to prevent license suspension
Keep copies of all submissions and confirmations
Switching from one Car Service base to another, or changing to a Black Car base, requires careful coordination to avoid coverage gaps and license issues.
Yes, Car Service bases typically allow older vehicles (up to 15-20 years depending on the base) compared to Black Car bases which usually require newer vehicles. This makes Car Service an attractive option for drivers with older, well-maintained vehicles.
Base letters confirm your affiliation with a TLC-licensed base and are required for insurance applications. They include your driver information, vehicle details, and base contact information. Insurance carriers need these to verify your legitimate business operation.
Livery insurance provides commercial coverage for paying passengers, which personal auto insurance explicitly excludes. Personal insurance becomes void when carrying passengers for hire, leaving you completely unprotected. TLC insurance is mandatory and provides proper commercial liability and PIP coverage.
TLC regulations typically require affiliation with one primary base, though some drivers work arrangements with multiple bases. Your insurance policy must cover all authorized business activities. Consult with your base and insurance broker about multi-base arrangements.
If your base loses its TLC license, you must immediately find a new base affiliation to continue operating legally. Your insurance remains valid, but you'll need to update your policy with new base information and obtain new base letters for future renewals.
Specialized coverage for Car Service and Livery operations. Same-day binding available for qualified drivers.