 The Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) hosted Champions of the Road – Honors & Awards Virtual Ceremony which celebrated the outstanding service of taxi drivers. Honorees were recognized for their exemplary driving records, reflecting the highest standards of professionalism and care on the road. Director Jonathan Rogers offered commendations for their committed role in keeping passengers and communities safe across the District. This event highlighted the vital impact of safe driving and the dedication of those who make it their daily mission.
William Liggins, Director Industrial Revenue Bonds for the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, provided the keynote address which highlighted his appreciation for the distinguished service of taxi drivers through the years.
Special acknowledgments to Sherry Tillman, Program Analyst, and Amanuel Gebregiyorgis, Complaints Manager for organizing the program.
Congratulations to all the honorees!
The Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) is looking for taxi, Uber, or Lyft drivers who are District residents to join the For-Hire Vehicle Advisory Council (FHVAC). As part of the Council, members have a unique opportunity to share their insights and help shape decisions that directly impact drivers, passengers, and the broader for-hire industry. FHVAC recommendations play a critical role in guiding the agency’s future direction to better serve the community. FHVAC members are required to serve a three-year term, and general body meetings are held quarterly. For more information, please contact Lindsey de Boo at Lindsey.deboo@dc.gov.
Join the next FHVAC Meeting
WHEN:
Thursday, September 25 at 11:00 am
WHERE:
2235 Shannon Place SE
Washington, DC 20020
2nd Floor Hearing Room
Those who are unable to attend in-person may tune in virtually on ZOOM.
Taxi companies and operators may not discriminate against passengers for any protected trait including, but not limited to age, race, disability, gender identity, national origin, color, or religion. Passengers have the right to file discrimination reports with DFHV’s Office of Complaints and the DC Office of Human Rights. Penalties for drivers who discriminate against passengers may include fines and license suspensions. To file a complaint, fill out this form.
This month, DFHV hosted the final discussion of the four-part Non-District Limousine (NDL) Conversation Series. These meetings brought together DFHV staff and stakeholders from across the region to discuss the operations of the Client Services, Enforcement, Legal Counsel, and Complaints divisions. The goal behind the sessions was to foster collaboration and understanding with stakeholders and DFHV, and to gain insight on ways we can enhances our services.
Special acknowledgments to Karl Muhammad, Account Manager and Dustin Williams, Program Analyst, for moderating the discussions, as well as the presenters. DFHV aims to continue the series next year.
The DFHV Limo App has been discontinued and can no longer be used. All Non-District Limousine (NDL) drivers are encouraged to select another app to remain in compliance with service standards.
 In August, members of DFHV’s Enforcement team attended the Maryland Limousine Association Summer Soiree in Ellicott City, MD where they delivered a presentation highlighting the agency’s regulatory oversight, enforcement operations, safety priorities, compliance expectations, and cross-border coordination efforts that impact limousine operators serving the DMV area.
The Maryland Livery Association (MLA), is a non-profit organization that educates and supports livery industry drivers in the state of Maryland. The MLA is comprised of board of directors and general membership with experience in the transportation industry – operating a range of vehicles from limousines, sedans to coach buses. The MLA also provides members with resources to help individual businesses operate.
DFHV looks forward to working with the MLA to keep drivers informed about legislation, industry regulations and resources to enhance their business operations.
In observance of Indigenous Peoples' Day, DFHV’s offices will be closed on Monday, October 13. Normal business operations will resume on Tuesday, October 14.
License plates must be visible. Avoid covering your license plate with obstructive covers. Vehicles with obstructed tags are subject to a $50 fine.
All taxis must accept credit cards and electronic payments. Customers told to pay only in cash may file complaints with DFHV. Drivers not accepting electronic payments may face $100 fines. Taxi drivers must use their meters; failure to do so or being caught using faulty meters can result in a $500 fine. Signs requesting "cash only" are prohibited.
Keep these road safety reminders in mind:
U-turns are illegal and can be dangerous.
Slow down and obey the speed limit. Higher speeds are more likely to cause injury or death.
Give cyclists space. Don’t park in the bike lane or double park, this forces cyclists into busy roads.
Blocking bike lanes, bus lanes, or traffic lanes is dangerous for all users. Use designated pick-up and drop-off areas instead.
Always stop at stop signs and look for pedestrians and cyclists. 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.
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