D.C. Regulations on Limousine Operators

Title 31 District of Columbia Municipal Regulations

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CHAPTER 12 LIMOUSINE OPERATORS AND VEHICLES Section 1200 Application and Scope 1201 General Requirements 1202 Requirements for Licensing Limousine Organizations and Independent Owners 1203 Requirement of Base Owner 1204 Licensing Requirements for Limousine Vehicles 1205 Eligibility Requirements for a Limousine Operator’s License 1206 Application Requirements for a Limousine Operator’s License 1207 Health Requirements 1208 Investigation and Examination of Applicants 1209 Issuance of Licenses 1210 Denial of License and Reapplication 1211 Loss, Theft, or Destruction of License 1212 Complaints Against Operators of Limousines 1213 Hearings on Complaints 1214 Renewal of License 1215 Special Vehicle for Hire Permit 1216 Inter-jurisdictional Limousine Operation - Permit Required 1217 Advertising 1218 Penalties 1219 Appeals 1299 Definitions 1200 APPLICATION AND SCOPE 1200.1 This chapter shall be applicable to and govern all limousine and sedan organizations,

operators, and vehicles doing business in the District of Columbia (District). 1200.2 The provisions of this chapter shall be interpreted to comply with the language and intent

of the District of Columbia Taxicab Commission Establishment Act of 1985, as amended. AUTHORITY: Unless otherwise noted, the authority for this chapter is § 8 of the District of Columbia

Taxicab Commission Establishment Act of 1985, D.C. Law 6-97, D.C. Official Code §§ 50-301 et seq. (2001).

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812 (May 20, 1994). 1201 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 1201.1 No vehicle shall be operated as a limousine, as defined in § 1299, in the District unless

a license has been issued for that vehicle by the Commission pursuant to the provisions of D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(h) (2001).

1201.2 The vehicle license issued pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(h) (2001) shall be

maintained in the vehicle and readily available to be shown to any passenger or law enforcement official.


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1201.3 No person shall drive a limousine in the District of Columbia unless that person has a

valid limousine operator’s license issued by the Commission pursuant to D.C Official Code § 47-2829(i) (2001).

1201.4 The operator’s license issued pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(i) (200l) shall

be maintained in the vehicle and readily available to be shown to any passenger or law enforcement official.

1201.5 No owner of a limousine shall operate or permit the vehicle to be operated in the

District unless a license has been issued by the Commission for that vehicle pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(h) (2001), and the driver has a valid limousine operator’s license issued pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(i) (2001).

1201.6 Every person holding a license to operate a limousine shall maintain at the Office of Taxicabs their correct name, residence address and telephone number, and if affiliated with an organization the organization or owner for which they drive. In the event of any change in this information, the licensee shall inform the Office of the change within five (5) business days. The licensee may elect to provide this information by certified mail with return receipt requested or by hand delivery; the Office will provide proof of filing to the licensee. Failure to do so will result in a fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00) per offense. Any fine imposed pursuant to this section shall be collected at the time of the licensee’s renewal period. 1201.7 Every operator of a limousine shall maintain an itinerary/trip ticket, work

order, log sheet or electronic device that contains a daily log of all trips engaged in during the operation of the vehicle. The operator is also required to transfer information from an electronic device or cellular telephone from which it was retrieved to a written or printed format which shall be considered a manifest. The format shall consist of an itinerary/trip ticket, work order or log sheet and shall contain, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) the date; (b) time of pick up;

(c) address or location of the pick up;

(d) final destination; and

(e) time of discharge.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812-13 (May 20, 1994); as amended by: Final

Rulemaking published at 53 DCR 855 (February10, 2006); and Final Rulemaking published at 54 DCR 5605 (June 8, 2007)


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1202 REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSING LIMOUSINE ORGANIZATIONS AND

INDEPENDENT OWNERS 1202.1 No limousine organization or independently operated limousine, as defined in § 1299 of

this chapter, shall operate in the District without first paying the applicable fee of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) for the limousine organization or one hundred dollars ($100) for an independently operated limousine and obtaining a certificate of authority to operate.

1202.2 Each limousine organization shall file with the Office of Taxicabs (Office), in addition

to other information and data required by law, the following: (a) Annually on December 15th, and at other times as may be required by the

Commission, a certificate of identity on forms provided by the Office. Appended to the certificate shall be a list of the officers and directors with their residence addresses;

(b) If incorporated, a copy of its certificate of incorporation; (c) By-laws and other rules and regulations relating to the organization and its

operation, including fees charged to affiliates; (d) The name and residence address of the lessee and owner of each limousine

operated by the organization; (e) The address and telephone number of the organization and certification of

compliance with applicable zoning requirements; (f) The ownership, seating capacity, make, year, weight, and vehicle identification

number of all limousines; (g) The financial status and responsibility of the applicant, including evidence of

ability to acquire and maintain the vehicle(s) for which authority is sought; (h) Each criminal conviction, guilty plea, or plea of nolo contendere of the applicant; (i) The nature and location of depots, terminals, and garages to be used, if any; (j) A description of the communications systems to be used, if any; (k) The specific experience of the applicant in the transportation of passengers for hire; (l) A description of service(s) to be rendered, including, time(s) of operation; and (m) A schedule of fares and changes as they occur.


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1202.3 All changes in the information and data required by this section shall be reported to the Office within five (5) business days.

1202.4 Each base owner limousine organization shall comply with all record keeping

procedures established by the Commission. The operational information required to be maintained by § 1202.2 shall be safeguarded and maintained at the office of the organization for a period of two (2) years.

1202.5 All organization information may be inspected by Commission representatives during

regular business hours. 1202.6 No person shall file or otherwise make any false statements to the Commission. 1202.7 The Office of Taxicabs shall deny a license for any material false statement made in the

application. 1202.8 Any notice from the Commission shall be considered sufficient if sent to the last

mailing address furnished by the base owner. 1202.9 Any limousine organization that fails to timely file information as required in §1202.2

of this section shall be subject to a civil fine of two hundred and fifty dollars ($250). SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2813-14 (May 20, 1994); as amended by Final

Rulemaking published at 53 DCR 6850 (August 18, 2006). 1203 REQUIREMENT OF BASE OWNER 1203.1 Each limousine base owner may maintain an office in the District with an operable

telephone number listed in the name of the organization. 1203.2 A base owner shall not dispatch a for-hire vehicle from any location other than that

specified in the base certificate of authority. 1203.3 A base owner shall maintain and enforce rules, consistent with this chapter and the laws

of the District of Columbia, governing the conduct of affiliated drivers while performing their duty as for-hire vehicle drivers.

1203.4 Each base owner shall be liable for the conduct, operation, and violation of Commission rules by affiliate drivers and affiliate vehicles.

1203.5 A base owner shall not hold himself out for business as a “taxi” or “taxicab” service or

in any way use the word “taxi” or “taxicab” to describe the business. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2815 (May 20, 1994). 1204 LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR LIMOUSINE VEHICLES


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1204.1 All owners or lessees of limousines operating in the District shall obtain a vehicle license from the Commission.

1204.2 Each limousine owner shall file an application for a vehicle license with the Office of

Taxicabs on a form approved by the Commission. Each application shall set forth the owner’s full lawful name, the residence and business addresses of the owner, tax identification number, and any other information required by the Commission.

1204.3 Each applicant shall submit an application to the Director of the Office of Tax and

Revenue for a determination of applicable taxes, and shall file a copy of that application with the Commission.

1204.4 Each applicant for a limousine license shall present evidence that the vehicle has been

inspected by the Department of Motor Vehicles and is in compliance with inspection regulations.

1204.5 Each applicant shall present evidence satisfactory to the Commission that the vehicle is

insured under the provisions of D.C. Official Code §§ 31-2401 (2001) et seq. 1204.6 Upon receipt of an application for a limousine license and evidence satisfactory that all

requirements of the law have been met, and upon receipt of the proper fee, the Office shall issue a license to the owner.

1204.7 The fee for each limousine license issued pursuant to this section shall be one hundred

dollars ($100) for each vehicle. 1204.8 Each limousine license shall be in the form prescribed by the Commission, and shall

contain any information the Commission considers appropriate. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2815-16 (May 20, 1994). EDITOR’S NOTE: The District of Columbia Office of the Chief Financial Officer published a

Notice of Public Interest at 44 DCR 2345 (April 18, 1997) which advised that “[t]he OFFICE OF TAX AND REVENUE will assume all of the duties and functions previously performed by the DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND REVENUE, as set forth in Commissioner’s Order 69-96, dated March 7, 1969.” All references to the “Department of Finance and Revenue” in the original text of these regulations have been replaced with the “Office of Tax and Revenue.”

EDITOR’S NOTE (Continued): Pursuant to sections 1821 through 1830 of D.C. Law 12-175, the

“Department of Motor Vehicles Establishment Act of 1998,” all of the functions assigned to the Department of Public Works related to the administration of motor vehicles services in the District of Columbia, including vehicle and driver licensing, registration, and control functions only, as set forth in section III(H) of Reorganization Plan No. 4 of 1983, effective March 1, 1984, were transferred to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Therefore, all prior references to the “Department of Public Works” in this chapter have been replaced with the “Department of Motor Vehicles” in connection with any provisions herein that relate to vehicle and driver licensing, registration and control.

1205 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR A LIMOUSINE OPERATOR’S

LICENSE


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1205.1 Each applicant for a limousine operator’s license shall be at least eighteen (18) years of

age. 1205.2 No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter to any person who is

unable to read, write, and speak the English language. 1205.3 No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter to any person who is

covered by diplomatic immunity. 1205.4 No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter to any person who does

not possess a valid District of Columbia motor vehicle operator’s permit or, for non-District residents or persons exempt from obtaining a District motor vehicle operator’s permit, a valid motor vehicle operator’s permit issued by a state that is a party to the Driver License Compact.

1205.5 No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter to any person who has

been adjudged to be afflicted with or suffering from any mental disability or disease and who has not at the time of application been restored to competency by the methods provided by law.

1205.6 No license shall be issued to any person who is required by this chapter to take and pass

an examination unless that person has successfully passed the examination which shall include testing the applicant’s ability to read, write, and speak the English language.

1205.7 No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter to any person employed

by a federal or District agency with a policy that forbids the employee from operating a public vehicle for hire.

1205.8 No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter to any employee of the

District government whose employment is concerned directly or indirectly with the issuance of licenses to operate public vehicles for hire, or the enforcement of applicable rules and regulations.

1205.9 No license shall be issued to any person who is delinquent in paying a fine or, within

the last three (3) years, has committed one or more serious traffic offenses in the District or elsewhere that indicate a disrespect for traffic laws or the safety of other persons.

1205.10 No license shall be issued under this chapter to any person who is not of good moral

character under the standards delineated in §§ 1205.11 through 1205.13. 1205.11 An applicant shall not be considered of good moral character if he or she is any of the

following: (a) A habitual drunkard; (b) Addicted to the use of drugs; or


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(c) On parole or probation at the time of the filing of the application for a license,

except as provided in § 1205.12. 1205.12 Notwithstanding the provisions of § 1205.11, if the parole or the probation arose out of

a conviction other than those listed in § 1205.13, the parolee’s or probationer’s application may be considered for approval if a letter from the appropriate parole or probation officer is submitted with the application stating that there is no objection to the issuance of a limousine operator’s license.

1205.13 An applicant shall not be considered of good moral character if the applicant has been

convicted of or has served any part of a sentence for the following crimes within the three (3) years immediately preceding the filing of the application, or an attempt to commit any of the following crimes:

(a) Murder, manslaughter, mayhem, malicious disfiguring of another, arson, kidnapping,

burglary, housebreaking, robbery, theft, fraud, or unlawful possession of a firearm; (b) Assault with the intent to commit any offense punishable by imprisonment in the

penitentiary; (c) Any sex offense proscribed by D.C. Official Code §§ 22-1901 (incest), 22-3101 to

3103 (sexual performances using minors), 22-2701 to 2722 (prostitution and pandering), 22-4801 (rape), 22-3801 (indecent acts with children) or any act committed outside the District which, if committed in the District, would constitute an offense under these laws; or

(d) Any violation of the District of Columbia Uniform Controlled Substances Act of

1981 or the Drug Paraphernalia Act of 1982, D.C. Official Code (2001), Title 48, chapters 9 and 11, or any act committed outside the District which, if committed in the District, would constitute an offense under these laws.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2816-18 (May 20, 1994). EDITOR’S NOTE: The District of Columbia Uniform Controlled Substances Act of 1981 and the Drug

Paraphernalia Act of 1982, as amended, are codified at D.C. Official Code §§ 48-901.01 et seq. and D.C. Official Code §§ 48-1101 et seq., respectively.

1206 APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR A LIMOUSINE OPERATOR’S

LICENSE 1206.1 Each application for a limousine operator’s license shall be made on a form provided by

the Commission. 1206.2 Each application shall set forth the following information pertaining to the applicant: (a) Full lawful name (including middle name and any other names by which the

applicant is or has been known);


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(b) Date of birth; (c) Sex; (d) Social security number; (e) Address of residence; (f) Other information needed to determine the applicant’s identity, competency, and

eligibility; and (g) A full statement of all criminal and traffic charges entered against the applicant in

the District and elsewhere. 1206.3 Each application shall be accompanied by two (2) new full face and one (1) profile

head and shoulders color photographs, size one and three-quarter inches by one and seven-eighths inches (1¾ in. x 1⅞ in.).

1206.4 Each application shall also include one (1) sheet of fingerprints of the applicant taken at

the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), forwarded by MPD to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and furnished to the Office by the FBI.

1206.5 Each application shall also be accompanied by individual letters from the applicant’s

most recent employer and from at least three (3) responsible residents of the Metropolitan Area who are engaged in a business or profession, who have known the applicant for a period of at least one (1) year, and who shall vouch for the sobriety, honesty, and general good character of the applicant. Each letter shall include the signature and the current address of the writer.

1206.6 If the applicant is a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, the application shall be

accompanied by a copy of the applicant’s separation record or equivalent. 1206.7 If the applicant is a member of the Armed Forces at the time the application is filed, the

application shall be accompanied by written permission of the appropriate commanding officer permitting the applicant to receive a limousine operator’s license.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2818-19 (May 20, 1994). 1207 HEALTH REQUIREMENTS 1207.1 Each application (including a renewal application for a limousine operator’s license)

shall be accompanied by a certificate from a physician who is a resident of the metropolitan area, certifying that the applicant is not afflicted with any disease or infirmity which might make the applicant an unsafe or unsatisfactory driver of a limousine.

1207.2 The physician’s certificate shall be on a form provided by the Office and shall provide

for any additional information relating to the applicant’s past or present medical history


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as the Commission may consider necessary. 1207.3 The certificate shall be executed by the certifying physician within thirty (30) days of

the date of filing the application. 1207.4 Each application (including a renewal application) shall be accompanied by a certificate

signed by the applicant on a form provided by the Office certifying that to the best of the applicant’s knowledge and belief, the applicant has no disease or disability that would render the applicant unsafe or unsatisfactory as a driver of a limousine or sedan. The form may provide for additional information relating to the applicant’s past or present medical history or condition.

1207.5 Each applicant shall have central visual acuity of at least 20/40 in one eye, either

unassisted or assisted by glasses or contact lens, and shall have hearing of at least 10/20 in one ear.

1207.6 An applicant shall not be considered for a license if, at the time the application is filed,

the applicant is suffering from a contagious disease, epilepsy, vertigo, fainting spells, blackouts, attacks of dizziness, or another medical condition that in the opinion of the Office may render the applicant unsafe or unsatisfactory as a driver of a limousine or sedan.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2819-20 (May 20, 1994). 1208 INVESTIGATION AND EXAMINATION OF APPLICANTS 1208.1 Upon receipt of an application for a limousine operator’s license, the Office shall

investigate each applicant to verify the identity and determine the competency, fitness, and eligibility of the applicant for a license.

1208.2 Each applicant shall pass an examination administered by the Office. 1208.3 The examination shall include a test of the applicant’s knowledge of the metropolitan area. 1208.4 The examination shall also include any further physical and mental tests the

Commission finds necessary to determine the applicant’s fitness to operate a limousine. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2820 (May 20, 1994). 1209 ISSUANCE OF LICENSES 1209.1 The Office shall issue a license to each applicant who has complied with the

requirements of this chapter. 1209.2 Each limousine operator’s license shall have marked on its face a statement indicating it

is valid only for the type of vehicle operation for which it is issued and is nontransferable.


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1209.3 Each license shall contain a number, photograph of the licensee, and any other

information that the Commission considers appropriate. 1209.4 Each person to whom a limousine operator’s license has been issued shall, during the

term of the license, reside within the Metropolitan Area, and shall, no later than five (5) days following the termination of the residence within the Metropolitan Area, surrender the license to the Office.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2820 (May 20, 1994). 1210 DENIAL OF LICENSE AND REAPPLICATION 1210.1 An applicant who has been denied a license to operate a limousine or sedan for reasons

other than for failure to complete successfully an examination may file a new application for a license after the expiration of not less than six (6) months after the denial, unless the denial is reversed by the Panel on Adjudication of the Commission.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2821 (May 20, 1994). 1211 LOSS, THEFT, OR DESTRUCTION OF LICENSE 1211.1 In case of the loss, theft, or destruction of any limousine operator’s or vehicle license

issued pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, the licensee shall immediately notify the Office of the loss, theft, or destruction.

1211.2 Upon application made under oath on a form provided by the Office, and upon payment

of the applicable fee, the Office may issue a duplicate license. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2821 (May 20, 1994). 1212 COMPLAINTS AGAINST OPERATORS OF LIMOUSINES 1212.1 Complaints shall be filed within thirty (30) days after the event giving rise to the

complaint. 1212.2 Complaints shall be in writing, signed by the complainant, and contain the

complainant’s address and telephone number. 1212.3 Written complaints shall be delivered or mailed to the Office of Taxicabs, District of

Columbia Taxicab Commission, 2041 Martin Luther King Jr., Avenue, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20020.

1212.4 Within ten (10) days of receipt of a complaint, the Office shall notify the limousine

operator or owner, or both, by first class mail, postage prepaid, or certified mail, return


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receipt requested, of the nature of the complaint. 1212.5 The notification shall direct the operator or owner, or both, to file an answer with the

Office within ten (10) days of receipt. 1212.6 If the answer shows a violation of the Commission’s Rules and Regulations, the Office,

within ten (10) days, shall notify the limousine owner or operator, or both, of the violation and the proposed sanction. The Office shall also inform the complainant of the proposed sanction.

1212.7 If the answer does not show a violation of the Commission’s Rules and Regulations, the

Office shall notify the complainant of the answer and provide an explanation of why there is no violation.

1212.8 When the Office does not determine whether action under §§ 1212.6 or 1212.7 should

be taken, the Office shall attempt to resolve the complaint. 1212.9 If the Office does not resolve the complaint, the matter shall be referred to the Panel on

Adjudication (Panel) for disposition. 1212.10 If the facts alleged in a complaint do not constitute a violation of the Commission’s

Rules and Regulations, the Chief of the Office shall dismiss the matter and notify the complainant.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2821-22 (May 20, 1994). 1213 HEARINGS ON COMPLAINTS 1213.1 Where a complaint is forwarded to the Panel, pursuant to § 1212.9, a hearing shall be

held by the Panel, not later than ninety (90) calendar days following receipt of the complaint by the Panel.

1213.2 The procedures set forth in chapter 3 of this title shall govern the hearings concerning

complaints against limousine owners and operators. 1213.3 The Chairperson of the Commission shall send notice by certified mail to the

complainant and the respondent of the time, place, and subject matter of the hearing not later than fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the scheduled date of the hearing.

1213.4 Failure of a respondent to appear before the Panel for a scheduled hearing may result in

a default judgment against the respondent. Failure of the complainant to appear for a scheduled hearing may result in dismissal of the complaint.

1213.5 When the Panel imposes a monetary fine pursuant to a hearing or default judgment, the

respondent shall pay the fine within thirty (30) calendar days after the date of the order of the Panel, unless extended by the Panel.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2822 (May 20, 1994).


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1214 RENEWAL OF LICENSE 1214.1 A licensed operator of a limousine may submit an application to renew the license

forty-five (45) days prior to the expiration of the license. 1214.2 If a person fails to submit an application to renew a license to operate within ninety (90)

days following the expiration date of the license, the person may be required to take and successfully pass any test required pursuant to this chapter.

1214.3 If a person fails to submit an application to renew the license to operate a limousine for

one (1) year following the expiration date of the license, the person shall be required to apply for a new or original license to operate a limousine pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2822-23 (May 20, 1994). 1215 SPECIAL VEHICLE FOR HIRE PERMIT 1215.1 The Office of Taxicabs may issue a special vehicle permit that authorizes a limousine

or sedan not licensed as a public vehicle-for-hire in the District of Columbia to operate for hire in the District for a period of not more than thirty (30) days during a particular event recognized by the District of Columbia including the Presidential Inauguration, Congressional Black Caucus, International Bankers Convention, World Cup Soccer, etc. Only vehicles properly registered as vehicles-for-hire in another jurisdiction and rental cars shall be eligible to obtain a special vehicle-for-hire permit.

1215.2 Each person applying for a special vehicle permit shall file an application with the

Office on a form provided by the Office. The application form shall include, but need not be limited to, the following:

(a) Name, address, and telephone number of the applicant and the registered owner of

the vehicle; (b) Make, model, year, and vehicle identification number; (c) Jurisdiction where the vehicle is registered, expiration date of registration, and

license plate number; and (d) The name and date(s) of the event for which the special vehicle permit is

requested. 1215.3 Special vehicle permits issued in accordance with this section shall display the name of

the permit holder, the date of issuance and the date of expiration of the permit, the name of the event for which the permit has been issued, the name of the owner of the vehicle, the make, model, year and vehicle identification number, and the license plate number


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and jurisdiction where the vehicle is registered. The permit shall be affixed to the right front windshield so as to be plainly visible.

1215.4 Vehicles issued a special vehicle permit under this section shall only be operated in the

District by an individual who has in his or her possession a valid operator identification card issued by the Commission or an operator’s license issued by another jurisdiction.

1215.5 The fee for each special vehicle permit shall be one hundred twenty-five dollars ($125). SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2823-24 (May 20, 1994). 1216 INTER-JURISDICTIONAL LIMOUSINE OPERATION - PERMIT

REQUIRED 1216.1 Any person who would be required to obtain a limousine for hire vehicle permit

pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 50-313 and rules promulgated pursuant thereto may, in place of the permit, be issued an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit; provided that the person satisfies the conditions for the issuance of an inter-jurisdictional permit and the transportation provided by such person complies with the provisions of this section.

1216.2 An inter-jurisdictional limousine permit only authorizes a person to pick-up passengers

for hire in the District on a pre-arranged basis for destinations outside the District. 1216.3 An applicant for an inter-jurisdictional vehicle permit shall satisfy the following

requirements: (a) Possess a valid vehicle registration which is valid for the transportation of persons

by limousine within that state; (b) Neither the applicant nor any person or business engaged in transporting

passengers by motor vehicle for hire that is affiliated with the applicant has a place of business, a telephone number, or solicits business or specifically advertises in the District;

(c) The vehicle shall be driven only by the holder of a driver’s license that is valid for

the for-hire operation of the vehicle; (d) The vehicle shall be driven only by the holder of a for-hire vehicle driver’s license

where the driver has submitted proof satisfactory to the Commission that the driver possesses a license or permit that was granted by a state or political subdivision and for which the driver has been fingerprinted for the purpose of securing and reviewing the driver’s criminal history records;

(e) The applicant has not had an inter-jurisdictional vehicle permit revoked or has not

been refused renewal of an inter-jurisdictional vehicle permit; and (f) A driver of a vehicle for which an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit has been


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obtained must be licensed by the Commission, unless the driver has been issued a certificate by the Commission indicating that the driver possesses a license or permit that was granted by a state or political subdivision and for which the driver has been fingerprinted for the purpose of securing and reviewing the driver’s criminal records.

1216.4 The annual fee for an inter-jurisdictional permit shall be two hundred dollars ($200). 1216.5 A fee of one hundred dollars ($100) shall be paid for each inter-jurisdictional limousine

permit issued to replace a lost or mutilated permit, or a permit which has become obsolete as a result of the acquisition of new license plates.

1216.6 If the Commission, after reviewing an application for an inter-jurisdictional limousine

permit and after appropriate investigation and a hearing affording the applicant an opportunity to be heard, finds that the applicant made a material false statement or concealed a material fact in connection with the application, the Commission may deny issuance of the permit, refuse to renew, suspend or revoke any such permit.

1216.7 A vehicle owner issued a permit pursuant to this section shall maintain the conditions of

issuance of the permit as provided in this section. 1216.8 A vehicle owner shall ensure that a valid Commission decal, evidencing an inter-

jurisdictional limousine permit, is affixed to the front right side of the windshield of a vehicle so as to be plainly visible. Inter-jurisdictional limousine permits for vehicles registered outside of the District shall be affixed to the front right side window so as to be plainly visible.

1216.9 No unauthorized entry shall be made on the inter-jurisdictional limousine permit or

decal, nor shall any entry on any such vehicle permit or decal be changed or defaced. 1216.10 An unreadable inter-jurisdictional limousine permit or decal shall immediately be

surrendered to the Commission for replacement. 1216.11 A vehicle owner who holds an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit shall pick up

passengers on a prearranged basis only. Street hails and the use of stands are not permitted.

1216.12 A vehicle owner who holds an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit shall not pick-up

and discharge the same passenger(s) within the District unless the following occurs: (a) As part of pre-arranged transportation which begins with the pick-up of the

passenger(s) in the District and ends with the discharge of the passenger(s) outside of the District, temporary discharge and subsequent pick-up of the passenger(s) within the District occurs during the course of performing the pre-arranged transportation; and

(b) There is no unauthorized intra-District transportation provided to any other person


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who is not covered by the pre-arranged transportation agreement during any such period of discharge.

1216.13 A vehicle owner shall ensure that a record of each transport authorized solely by an

inter-jurisdictional limousine permit issued pursuant to § 1216.1 is entered prior to the commencement of the transport in a log carried in the vehicle. The record shall be kept for a period of one year after the transport. The record of each transport shall be written legibly in ink and include the following information:

(a) Passenger’s name; (b) Time of scheduled pick up of passenger; (c) Location of one temporary discharge, if applicable; (d) Final destination of passenger; and (e) The time of completion of the transport. 1216.14 The log required by § 1216.13 shall be kept in the vehicle during inter-jurisdiction

transport and shall be subject to inspection by any police officer, hack inspector, law enforcement official or other person authorized by the Commission. Failure to present a log maintained in the manner prescribed in § 1216.13 when requested by any such authorized person shall be presumptive evidence of intra-District operation in violation of this section.

1216.15 A vehicle registered outside the District shall meet the inspection requirements

provided by the state of registration. Authorized personnel of the Commission may conduct an on-street inspection of the vehicle. The Commission may order the vehicle owner to repair or replace the vehicle when it appears that it no longer meets the safety requirements prescribed by this chapter and the applicable state law or the safety requirements of the state of registration, as applicable.

1216.16 A vehicle owner who holds an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit shall not permit the

vehicle to be operated without daily personal inspection and reasonable determination that all equipment, including brakes, lights, and signals are in good working order and meet all the requirements of the applicable state law and this chapter.

1216.17 A vehicle owner who holds an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit shall not permit the

vehicle to be operated when the Commission or the District’s Bureau of Motor Vehicle Services has determined that the vehicle is unsafe or unfit for use as a for-hire vehicle and the vehicle owner has been directed to remove the vehicle from service.

1216.18 A vehicle owner who holds an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit shall ensure that he

or she promptly complies with all Commission notices and directives to correct observable defects in a vehicle which would result in the inability of the vehicle to pass a District inspection or an inspection in the state of registration.


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1216.19 A vehicle owner who holds an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit shall designate each

and every driver who operates the vehicle as his or her agent for accepting service by Commission personnel of summonses or notices to correct defects in the vehicle. Delivery of the summons or notice to a driver shall be considered proper service of the summons or notice on the vehicle owner. The Commission shall send a copy of any summons or notice to the vehicle owner.

1216.20 A for-hire limousine vehicle owner shall immediately notify the Commission of the

theft, loss, or destruction of an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit or decal and furnish the Commission with an affidavit or such information as may be required, and shall replace the permit or decal.

1216.21 The transfer of an inter-jurisdictional limousine permit between vehicles shall be

prohibited. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2824-27 (May 20, 1994). 1217 ADVERTISING 1217.1 No advertising or advertising device shall be placed on or in any limousine, sedan, or

stretch limousine without the approval of the Commission. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2828 (May 20, 1994). 1218 PENALTIES 1218.1 Any person, base owner, organization or owner who violates any provision of this

chapter may be subject to a civil fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500) or license suspension or revocation.

1218.2 Any vehicle not properly licensed or that is being operated by a person not properly

licensed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter may be booted, impounded or towed. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2828 (May 20, 1994). 1219 APPEALS 1219.1 Any order or act of the Office under the provisions of this chapter may be appealed to

the Panel on Adjudication of the Commission. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2828 (May 20, 1994). 1299 DEFINITIONS


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1299.1 When used in this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the meaning

ascribed: Affiliated Driver - an individual who drives a for-hire affiliated vehicle who is required to be licensed by the Commission. Affiliated Vehicle - a for-hire vehicle that is dispatched from a base. Base - a place of business from which for-hire vehicles are dispatched. Base Owner - any individual, partnership, corporation or organization licensed by the Commission to own and operate a base as provided for in §§ 1202 and 1203 of this chapter. Commission - the District of Columbia Taxicab Commission established pursuant to the “District of Columbia Taxicab Commission Establishment Act of 1985,” as amended (D.C. Law 6-97; D.C. Official Code §§ 50-301 et seq. (2001) ). District or D.C. - the District of Columbia. District of Columbia Taxicab Commission (DCTC) License - the vehicle license issued pursuant to § 31(d) of the License Act (D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(d) (2001)). Face - the license (identification card) issued under § 31(i) of the License Act (D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(i) (2001)). Identification Card - the operator license issued under § 31(i) of the License Act (D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(i) (2001)). Independently Operated Limousine - any sedan, limousine, or stretch limousine which is not affiliated with a base, i.e., it is the only vehicle owned and/or operated by an individual. License Act - Public Law 237, 72nd Congress, 47 Stat. 550, approved July 1, 1932, D.C. Official Code §§ 47-2801 et seq. (2001) (specifically D.C. Official Code § 47-2829 (2001)). Limousine - a motor vehicle carrying passengers for hire in the District, designed to carry fewer than nine (9) passengers, excluding the driver, with three (3) or more doors, other than a taxicab, coach, or wheelchair accessible van, and not permitted to accept street hails from prospective passengers in the street, and required to be licensed by the Commission. Limousine Organization - any individual, person, corporation, company, partnership, or association, owning or operating two or more limousines in the District of Columbia. Metropolitan Area - the area encompassed by the District of Columbia, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Charles, and Frederick Counties in Maryland; Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties and the Cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park in Virginia.


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Office - Office of Taxicabs. Operator - any person operating a limousine for hire. Owner - any person, corporation, partnership, or association which holds the legal title to a limousine, the registration of which is required in the District of Columbia. If a limousine is the subject of an agreement for the conditional sale or lease with the right of purchase upon performance of the condition stated in the agreement and with an immediate right of possession vested in the conditional vendee or lessee, or if a mortgagor of a limousine is entitled to possession, then the conditional vendee, lessee, or mortgagor shall be considered the owner. Panel on Consumer & Industry Concerns - the Panel on Consumer & Industry Concerns established pursuant to the District of Columbia Taxicab Commission Establishment Act of 1985, as amended (D.C. Law 6-97; D.C. Official Code §§ 50-301 et seq. (2001)). Panel on Rates and Rules - the Panel on Rates and Rules established pursuant to the District of Columbia Taxicab Commission Establishment Act of 1985, as amended (D.C. Law 6-97; D.C. Official Code §§ 50-301 et seq. (2001)). Sedan - a for-hire vehicle designed to carry fewer than six (6) passengers, excluding the driver, which charges for service on the basis of time and mileage (effective May 1, 2008). Sponsor - a base owner who is licensed by the Commission and has entered into an agreement with a prospective driver, who, if licensed by the Commission, will be affiliated with said base for a stated period of time. Street - any street, avenue or road designated on the Permanent System of Highways of the District of Columbia as a public thoroughfare. Stretch Limousine - a for-hire vehicle designed to carry fewer than nine Passengers, excluding the driver, which is dispatched from a garage, maintains a minimum of $500,000/$l million liability insurance coverage and in which passengers are charged fees calculated on the basis of garage-to-garage service. Vehicle Owner - an individual, partnership or corporation in whose name a vehicle is titled. For the purposes of these rules, the term shall also apply to the lessee of the vehicle from the titled owner. Service shall be deemed proper service on the vehicle owner if sent to the registrant or the lessee of the vehicle. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 41 DCR 2812, 2828-30 (May 20, 1994).

D.C. Regulations on Limousine Operators

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Transcript of D.C. Regulations on Limousine Operators