How to Get TLC Plates: The FHV Vehicle License, Step by Step
In New York City, the car itself needs a TLC license — a For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) license with TLC “TC” plates from the DMV. This guide covers who can apply right now, the documents and insurance you need, the 10 steps from base affirmation to inspection, and how to renew.
Who can apply for a new FHV license right now
FHV licenses cover black cars, livery vehicles and luxury limousines. Your vehicle type follows the class of the base you affiliate with.
Because of these limits, many drivers rent or lease an already-licensed vehicle, or replace the vehicle on an existing license. Rules change often, so check the TLC’s current policy before buying a car — and call us if you need insurance for a replacement vehicle.
Documents for a TLC vehicle license
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of ownership in your name — DMV registration, bill of sale, lease, certificate of origin, or title (front and back)
- FH-1 For-Hire Insurance Certificate in your name
- Certificate of liability issued by your insurer showing TLC minimum coverage
- Base affirmation — your base submits it; you get a confirmation email
- Business documents if the car is owned by a corporation, LLC or partnership (formation papers, members/officers, IRS EIN letter)
TLC minimum insurance for FHVs
| Vehicle | Passengers | Liability | PIP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Livery & black car | 1–7 | $100,000 / $300,000 / $10,000 PD | $100,000 |
| Livery & black car | 8–15 | $1.5M per occurrence (CSL) | $100,000 |
| Livery & black car | 16–20 | $5M per occurrence (CSL) | $100,000 |
| Luxury limousine | 1–7 | $500,000 / $1M per occurrence | $100,000 |
| Luxury limousine | 8–15 | $1.5M per occurrence (CSL) | $100,000 |
| Luxury limousine | 16–20 | $5M per occurrence (CSL) | $100,000 |
Source: NYC TLC — Get a For-Hire Vehicle License.
Syed Insurance Agency quotes FHV insurance from multiple carriers and provides the FH-1 you need for the application.
10 steps to get TLC plates
All steps must be finished within 45 days of your application, or it is denied.
- Pay all ticketsParking, traffic and TLC tickets must be paid.
- Get your base affirmationYour base submits a Base Affirmation for your vehicle. Wait for the confirmation email — you can’t apply without it.
- Get TLC insuranceBuy a for-hire policy that meets the minimums and get your FH-1.
- Apply in LARSYou need the base name and TLC number, VIN, insurance details, a non-PO box address, email, SSN or EIN, and a payment method.
- Pay the feeE-check has no extra fee; cards add 2%.
- Upload documents in TLC UPWithin 45 days of payment.
- Get your DMV plate letterThe TLC posts it on TLC UP and emails it to you.
- Get TC plates at the DMVTake the plate letter to a NYS DMV office for TLC for-hire plates and registration.
- File the Plate Notification FormOn TLC UP.
- Pass the TLC inspectionThe TLC emails your appointment. Once the vehicle passes, the license activates within 48 hours.
Renewing your FHV vehicle license
- Submit your renewal at least 30 days before expiration. You have 60 extra days after expiration, with a $25 late fee, and the license is expired until approved.
- Fees: $550 renewal (non-WAV); $75 inspection if the vehicle has 500+ miles; $800 CMVT tax if registered outside NYC.
- Insurance: the vehicle can’t be renewed without current insurance meeting TLC minimums and a current FH-1 on file.
- Inspection: a current MC300 NYS DOT inspection report is required.
Read our TLC insurance renewal guide to avoid a lapse.
TLC plates & vehicle license questions
Can I get new TLC plates for a regular sedan?
Right now the TLC says new FHV vehicle license applications are limited to wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs). Check the TLC website for the current policy before buying a vehicle.
What is an FH-1?
The FH-1 is the For-Hire Insurance Certificate your insurer issues. The TLC needs it, in the owner’s name, to license and renew a for-hire vehicle.
How long does the TLC vehicle license process take?
You have 45 days to finish every step. After the vehicle passes inspection, the TLC says the license activates within 48 hours.
How much does it cost to renew an FHV license?
For a non-WAV vehicle: $550 renewal, plus $75 inspection for vehicles with 500+ miles, and $800 CMVT tax for vehicles registered outside NYC — $550 to $1,425 total.
Official sources: TLC Get an FHV License · TLC Renew an FHV License · TLC Vehicle Insurance
Last updated October 2026. Rules and fees change — always confirm with the NYC TLC or NYS DMV before you apply. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
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