Complete guide to NYC TLC insurance requirements, updated for 2025/26 regulatory changes. Covers minimum limits by vehicle class, PIP reform, FH-1 certificate process, and official compliance requirements.
Last Updated: January 2025 | Sources: NYC TLC, NYC Mayor's Office, NY DMV
TLC Insurance is commercial vehicle insurance specifically required by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) for all licensed for-hire vehicles operating in New York City. This includes:
NYC has implemented significant insurance rule changes effective January 1, 2026, including: allowance of excess policies, 24/7 coverage requirements, and updated carrier authorization requirements.View official TLC insurance requirements
| Vehicle Class | Passenger Capacity | Liability Minimum | PIP (No-Fault) | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Car/Livery | 1-7 passengers | $100,000/$300,000 | $100,000* | Current |
| Luxury Base | 1-7 passengers | $500,000/$1,000,000 | $100,000* | Current |
| Yellow/Green Taxi | 1-7 (per TLC bands) | $100,000/$300,000 + $10,000 PD | $100,000* | Current |
| Black Car/Livery | 8-15 passengers | $200,000/$500,000 + $50,000 PD | $100,000* | Current |
| Black Car/Livery | 16-20 passengers | $500,000/$1,000,000 + $100,000 PD | $100,000* | Current |
| Luxury Base | 8-15 passengers | $750,000/$1,500,000 + $100,000 PD | $100,000* | Current |
| Luxury Base | 16-20 passengers | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 + $200,000 PD | $100,000* | Current |
*PIP reduced from $200,000 to $100,000 effective 2025 per Local Law 90. Requirements sourced from official TLC Vehicle Insurance Requirements PDF (2021) - note: PIP amounts updated per 2025 legislation.
NYC legislation lowered required Personal Injury Protection (PIP) from $200,000 to $100,000 per person to reduce insurance costs for drivers. This change affects all TLC vehicle classes.View Mayor's office announcement
The FH-1 certificate from NY DMV proves your vehicle has proper TLC insurance. Required for TLC license renewal and vehicle registration.
Official Resource:NY DMV FH-1 Certificate Information
The TLC Up system is where you manage your vehicle license, upload insurance documents, and check renewal status.
Email updated insurance documents directly to TLC:
Access TLC Up:TLC Driver Requirements & TLC Up System
Follow this comprehensive process to get TLC-compliant insurance and register your vehicle. Each step is essential for legal operation in NYC.
Apply for your TLC driver license through the TLC website. Complete required training, background check, and medical exam.
Select a TLC-eligible vehicle that meets age, safety, and inspection requirements for your intended base type.
Get quotes from TLC-approved insurance carriers. Compare coverage limits, deductibles, and premium costs.
Purchase your chosen policy and ensure it meets all TLC minimum requirements for your vehicle class.
Work with your insurance carrier to obtain the official FH-1 certificate from NY DMV proving TLC compliance.
Submit your vehicle registration application to TLC along with all required documentation and fees.
Upload all insurance documents and certificates to the TLC Up online system for verification and compliance tracking.
Once approved, you can begin operating legally in NYC. Maintain current insurance and renew before expiration.
Typical completion time: 6-10 weeks from start to finish. Plan ahead and begin the process early to avoid delays in starting your driving career.
In NYC, you must carry TLC insurance at all times. Uber provides some coverage during trips, but Lyft does not procure insurance for TLC trips at all. Your TLC insurance is primary coverage, not supplemental. Outside NYC, standard rideshare phase coverage applies.
Yes, starting January 1, 2026. The new TLC rule allows split coverage (e.g., primary + excess policies) to meet minimum requirements, provided each carrier is authorized to do business in New York. Before 2026, only single primary policies were allowed.
The 2026 rule change requires carriers to be "authorized in NY" rather than just "solvent." This provides additional protection through NY's Insurance Guaranty Fund if needed.
NY DMV typically processes FH-1 certificates in 5-10 business days. Plan ahead and submit well before your renewal deadline to avoid license lapses.
Starting January 1, 2026, excess policies will be allowed to meet TLC minimums. Excess policies provide coverage above a certain threshold, potentially reducing costs.
Ready to get compliant TLC insurance that meets all 2025/26 requirements? Our licensed brokers understand the latest regulations and work with carriers authorized to do business in New York.
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Important: This guide provides general information about TLC insurance requirements and should not be considered legal or insurance advice. Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the NYC TLC and consult with licensed insurance professionals. Coverage availability and rates depend on individual circumstances and carrier underwriting.
Sources: Information compiled from NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission, NYC Mayor's Office, NY Department of Motor Vehicles, and NYC Rules. Last verified: January 2025.