TLC Driver License Renewal Course revamped with enhanced training and safety videos, new Vision Zero content

Input from drivers and instructors steered updates that include condensed class times, immersive real-world scenarios

NEW YORK, NY – The Taxi and Limousine Commission is proud to announce a new driver renewal course that features an array of enhancements to modernize and revitalize the curriculum.

Launched on April 1, 2024, the enhanced TLC Driver License Renewal Course includes new materials for drivers that improve customer service and traffic safety, emphasize and continue to prioritize Vision Zero and highlight the TLC and City resources available for licensed drivers. The refreshed curriculum also contains engaging new video content that focuses on real-world scenarios to better educate drivers about bias and discrimination.

"Our city's cab drivers are some of the hardest-working professionals in New York; it's important they have information to make their jobs easier and safer," said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “With over 180,000 licensees citywide, these new training tools will make a meaningful difference on our streets, increasing accessibility awareness and continuing to drive stellar customer service for the riding public.”

“Public safety will always be a fundamental component of TLC driver training and licensing – especially as we look back on Visions Zero’s historic progress over the last 10 years," said TLC Commissioner David Do. “These improvements are key to prosperity and will make our world-class licensees better prepared to face new challenges in real time, reduce classroom time and keep them on the road.”

"The enhanced renewal course demonstrates TLC's commitment to Vision Zero and the safety of all passengers and pedestrians in this City. The course’s lessons on defensive driving help licensed drivers set an example for others on our roads," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We are happy to collaborate with the TLC and appreciate the strides it has made as a Vision Zero agency.”

Driven by substantial feedback from instructors and thousands of TLC drivers, the course enhancements feature a new and interactive curriculum that uses AI actors and scenario-based instruction.

The new video content will help prevent bias -- including on the proper use of gender-neutral and non-binary language -- and continue to emphasize the importance of providing excellent customer service to all New Yorkers. Additionally, there are resources available to drivers who experience discrimination by passengers, such as how to contact the NYC Commission on Human Rights.

New course materials, which are created by the TLC, expand upon drivers’ extensive Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV) training to better assist passengers who have a visual or hearing impairment. It also focuses on preventing discrimination based on race, disability, religion, sexual orientation, and destination. This immersive new video content includes Vision Zero instruction that simulates situations around passenger safety, cyclists and weather hazards.

Additionally, all students will receive a TLC Resource Book as a reference guide to be used at any time after the training. The book will support drivers throughout their professional driving careers and contains vital information about the Driver Protection Unit, the Owner Driver Resource Center, electric vehicle charging stations, health services for New Yorkers without health insurance, and lost property resources.

The TLC has approved new schools within the five boroughs to give licensed drivers more options to choose from when registering for the course and different price options. All TLC-licensed drivers take the renewal course every three years and within 90 days of their expiration date. For a complete list of the TLC-authorized schools that offer the renewal course, go here. For more information on the renewal course visit the driver education section of our website. 

About the NYC TLC

Created in 1971, NYC TLC is the agency responsible for licensing and regulating New York City's Medallion (Yellow) taxi cabs, for-hire vehicles (community-based liveries, black cars, and luxury limousines), commuter vans, and paratransit vehicles, along with the businesses that operate them. It is recognized as the largest and most active taxi and For-Hire Vehicle regulatory body in the United States.

Over 200,000 TLC licensees complete approximately 1,000,000 trips each day. To operate for hire, drivers must first undergo a background check, have a safe driving record, and complete 24 hours of driver training. TLC-licensed vehicles are inspected for safety and emissions at TLC's Woodside Inspection Facility.

To find out more about the TLC, or to review its rules, regulations, and procedures, we encourage you to visit our official Web site at www.nyc.gov/taxi or contact 311/311 Online.

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