New! Installment Plans for Taxi Driver's Licenses
DFHV is now offering installment plans for taxi driver's licenses fees!
You can now pay for your license in two (2) convenient installments. This flexible payment option allows you to spread out the cost of your general operating fees, making it more manageable for your budget.
To take advantage of this offer, simply visit our website or stop by our Client Services department. Our team will be happy to help you set up your installment plan and answer any questions you may have.
For additional information, please contact the DFHV Client Services department at 202.645.7300 or dfhv.clientservices@dc.gov.
Electric Vehicle Charger Upgrades
On March 8, DFHV joined the Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) staff to visit Transco’s Benning Road facility where an inoperable electric vehicle (EV) charging station is slated for an upgrade. DOEE received $588,200 to upgrade the single port, 50kW station to four 150kW charging ports as part of the Electric Vehicle Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program.
Transco also operates two charging stations at Union Station available for all EV taxis. EV drivers who wish to use the stations at Union Station must contact Transco to set up an account and password. 202-398-0526 or trascoinc888@aol.com. The EV stations are located near the taxi entrance on the H Street Bridge.
Next Fare DC fare map shows where to find customers
Have you tried Next Fare DC? It uses historical trip data to show a heat map of where the most pick-ups have been at a given time of day. You can explore the data by changing the timeframe and use the hand wave button to show live taxi pickups in the last five minutes. Check it out at nextfaredc.com/map.
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Enforcement Reminders
License plates must be visible. Do not cover your license plate with any cover that obstructs the plate. Vehicles with obstructed tags are subject to a $50 fine.
All taxis must accept credit cards and electronic payments. Customers who are told they can only pay in cash may file complaints with DFHV. Drivers who do not accept electronic payments are subject to fines of $100. Additionally, all taxi drivers must be using their meters. If a driver is not using their meter or their meter is not working correctly, they can be fined $500. Signs asking for cash only are also prohibited.
Keep Bus Lanes and Zones Clear!
The District Department of Transportation’s (DDOT) Clear Lanes program enforces bus lane rules. Avoid fines by staying out of red bus lanes. Drivers caught with illegal actions in bus lanes (marked by red paint and signage) will receive a $100 fine, including taxi and limo drivers. Phase 1 started on November 15, 2023, with $100 fines for illegal parking, standing, or stopping in bus zones (around bus stops). Learn more: ddot.dc.gov/node/1664671
Union Station Bus Deck Construction
Taxi operations have relocated to the West Ramp due to Bus Deck Construction. Drivers are to enter via the H Street NE garage and pick up at West Carriage Porch. Taxis are to line up on the Garage Ramp only; there is no access on Taxi Road, Lane A, or Massachusetts Avenue. This change is in effect until construction is complete.
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With spring upon us, more people may be traveling and hiring taxis, limos and rideshare to get around, don’t forget to drive safely! |
Here are some road safety reminders:
- U-turns can be dangerous. Follow the rules and don’t make illegal u-turns.
- Slow down and obey the speed limit. Higher speeds are more likely to cause injury or death.
- Give bicyclists space. Don’t park in the bike lane or double park; this forces bicyclists into busy roads.
- Blocking bike lanes, bus lanes, or lanes of traffic is dangerous for all users. Use designated pick-up and drop-off areas instead.
- Always stop at stop signs and look for pedestrians and bicyclists. Always stop for pedestrians at crossings and wait for them to cross before continuing.
Passengers, remember to remain alert of your surroundings, travel with friends, and know your driver. If you’re taking a taxi or rideshare service, make note of your driver’s ID or tag number and always let your friends and family know where you are.
Notice Regarding EMPOWER
The rideshare company EMPOWER has refused to register with DFHV in order to operate in the District. Since EMPOWER refuses to register, riders have no way to know if their drivers are safe, insured, and will take them to their destination. Additionally, riders have no way to make complaints. DFHV impounds any vehicle from a driver who is driving illegally for EMPOWER.
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