The Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) reminds all United Ventures Consortium (UVC) DTS users that dome lights with manual on/off switches are not compliant with current regulations. To remain in compliance, all vehicles must be equipped with a Bluetooth-enabled dome light. Schedule your installation on-line or by contacting UVC.
Effective Saturday, November 22, UVC DTS Users with non-compliant dome lights or who have failed to schedule an appointment for installation of a compliant dome light may be subject to Notices of Infraction (NOIs) and fines.
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DFHV remains committed to expand wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) service in the District by creating opportunities for new and existing drivers. Fiscal year 2026 grant funding opportunities are now available through August 2026. To learn more about the grant programs and application criteria, visit https://dfhv.dc.gov/grants or the ZoomGrants:DFHV Grants Portal. If you require technical assistance, contact the DFHV Grants Team at DFHV.Grants@dc.gov.
As winter approaches, it’s important to understand how snow emergencies and related fare policies are managed in the District. The declaration of a snow emergency by the Mayor serves to restrict parking on major roadways to enable efficient snow removal.
The activation of a snow emergency fare is determined at the discretion of the DFHV Director, based on actual roadway conditions rather than the emergency status itself. The District Government’s declaration of a Snow Emergency does not automatically authorize taxi operators to charge passengers an additional $15 fare for such circumstances. DFHV will communicate the activation and deactivation of the $15 snow emergency fare through the website, DTS companies, and text communication. Please ensure your contact information is up to date with your DTS company and DFHV Client Services.
Effective December 1, all Digital Taxi Solution (DTS) providers affiliated with D.C. licensed taxicab drivers must provide drivers with a list of payments and fees within 24 hours of payment. These summaries must include trip details, earned revenue, itemized deductions, and plain-language explanations of all withheld fees. Generic terms like “other costs” will no longer be accepted.
For passengers, DTS providers must ensure that every printed or electronic receipt includes a full breakdown of fare components, including extras, tolls, surcharges, and gratuities. Hybrid receipts must also link to a detailed online version. These measures aim to provide drivers with comprehensive financial records and protect passengers from inaccurate or misleading charges. For details on this Administrative Issuance, please visit link.
The OneStop Application has a new name: Taxi and Limousine Vehicle Registration. This update will help streamline the application process for drivers and help them locate the services they need. The change also reflects the District’s regulations and supports DFHV’s ongoing efforts to and improve the customer experience.
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.
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.
In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, DFHV offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28. Normal business hours will resume on Monday, December 1.
2026 Company Operating Authority
Applications for the 2026 Operating Authority are due by December 12, 2025. Renewal applications are accepted online using your company portal. Incomplete or late applications will not be processed. For more information, please visit https://dfhv.dc.gov/page/company-operating-authority. If you have additional questions, please contact your Account Manager.
For Hire Vehicle Advisory Council (FHVAC) Meeting
WHEN: December 18, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
WHERE: 2235 Shannon Place SE - 2nd Floor Hearing Room
Join us in person or virtually on Zoom!
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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