DFHV May Newsletter

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May 2021

Newsletter

This past year has been difficult for so many people affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Under the leadership of Mayor Bowser, the District’s agency operations have adapted to provide critical services during the pandemic. As of May 21, 2021, the District has lifted restrictions on pubic and commercial activities including capacity limits, types of activities, and time restrictions.

With increased vaccination and reduced infection rates providing signs of optimism, the transition to better days are on the horizon. The Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) will continue to work vigorously to support industry stakeholders throughout this time. Many of the improvements made to our operations and services will continue after the pandemic. For example, operators can now complete various types of Client Services transactions, such as FACE ID and vehicle registration renewals, online and without a trip to DFHV.  I encourage all drivers to get their business portal access and learn more about completing online transactions here.

On May 27, 2021, Mayor Bowser released the District’s FY22 budget proposal. I will testify about DFHV’s budget before the DC Council Committee on Small Business and Economic Development on Monday, June 14. As part of the District’s commitment to emerge from the pandemic better than before, DFHV budget highlights include:

• Relief for for-hire drivers to minimize the barriers to getting drivers back on the road.
  
  
• Investments in innovative programs including DC Neighborhood Connect and a new initiative to provide additional school transportation.
  
  
• Providing rides for residents with disabilities, while offering more choices for riders in their trips and ensure the sustainability of critical programs in the future.
  
  

If you have not already done so, I encourage all District for-hire operators to schedule a vaccination appointment. Continue to care for each other during this time and follow safety guidelines. To learn more about how you can get a vaccine, please visit coronavirus.dc.gov/vaccine. 

David Do, Director

Important Reminders for For-Hire Vehicle Operators

DFHV would like to remind drivers that all vehicles must have current insurance coverage to operate and transport passengers. Physical and digital copies can be provided as proof of insurance. To review insurance requirements in detail, please review Title 31 DCMR Section 901 here.

Physical barriers are no longer required in for-hire vehicles. However, masks are still required for both drivers and passengers during transport even if you are vaccinated.

If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to us at dfhv@dc.gov or (202) 645-7300.

In Case You Missed the Info Session

DFHV hosted a Virtual Info Session for the for-hire vehicle industry on May 18, 2021. More than 150 drivers attended this session. The session provided drivers with the latest DFHV news and information. This session included:

• Answers to frequently asked questions on vehicle and operator’s (FACE ID) licenses;
• A recap of the feedback generated from the Virtual Taxi Drivers Summit; and
• Tips on authorized meter use and payments.

If you missed any of the Info Sessions DFHV has hosted, you can watch the presentations here. Continue to look out for future sessions with new industry information!

Upcoming Virtual Meeting

• On June 2, 2021 at 6:00 PM, the Transport DC User Group will hold a virtual meeting. For more information, visit dc.gov/service/transport-dc or email transport.dc@dc.gov.
• On June 8, 2021 at 4:30 PM, the Accessibility Advisory Committee will hold a virtual meeting. For more information, visit dc.gov/page/accessibility-advisory-committee.

Chat With Us!

Do you have a question for DFHV? Chat with us live on our website. DFHV team members are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM to respond to you in real time. Click on the blue button at the bottom of our website. We look forward to hearing from you!

Client Services Update

Operators can opt to renew online or schedule an appointment to visit in-person to complete their license applications. The agency will continue to monitor the operating status of the public health emergency and will update all impacted stakeholders regarding renewals.

To schedule an appointment or if you have any questions, please contact the Client Services Division at (202) 645-7300 or DFHV.ClientServices@dc.gov.

Ticket Hearings Update

As of May 10, 2021, the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) began holding virtual hearings for for-hire vehicles. OAH has provided information for drivers on how to schedule and attend hearings on their website. Please click here for more information.  

Additionally, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) have begun hearings for drivers that receive a Notice of Infraction for Title 18 violations. DMV has posted information on their website on how to schedule and attend hearings.