June 2018
Director  Ernest Chrappah
For-Hire Rides

We are delighted to announce an upgrade to our  data dashboard to provide greater visibility into the District's for-hire industry. 

The multiple charts include the amount of revenue generated, taxi trips by ward and time, the number of for-hire vehicles in service and paratransit trip information.

As mobility options expand in the District to include dockless bikes and technology is leveraged to improve efficiencies, DFHV will continue to implement data driven policies to ensure transportation is more accessible and affordable for our city's residents and visitors.
Vision Zero

As a part of the Bowser Administration's Vision Zero safety initiative, the Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) is proud to announce the grant award recipients of the Driver Education and Reward Program. This program is the result of a partnership between DFHV and District Department of Transportation (DDOT) to recognize drivers that exhibited the highest safety records while operating taxicabs in the District of Columbia between March 1, 2018 and April 30, 2018. 
   
The awardees were sponsored by their DTS Provider and each will receive $1,000
  1. Samson Abraham   Capitol Cab
  2. Israr Ahmad            Bay Cab
  3. Gurmail Darhele     Capitol Cab
  4. Faisal Nawaz          Capitol Cab
  5. Michael Yitbarek     UVC
Vision Zero

DFHV Transportation Challenge

The University of Maryland Transportation Institute was judged by a panel of independent observers as the best presentation during the DFHV Transportation Challenge. The idea for incenTrip is built on the objectives to reduce congestion, track and improve energy efficiency, and benefit the transportation ecosystem.  Assistant Research Professor Chenfeng Xiong and Software manager Eric Ji outlined how the program works to influence transit decisions by offering consumers something of value to produce public benefits, e.g., reduction of emissions.

Other presentations included an app for trip and fleet management; an information system to enable secure data exchange; and, a content distribution platform that tracks media engagement and mobile location to deliver hyper-local messaging to measure retail impact. Stay tuned as the results of this DFHV Transportation Challenge mean there will be more to come!  

Chenfeng Xiong of University of Maryland Transportation Institute
Taxicab Operator Curriculum

The Department of For-Hire Vehicles reminds ALL taxicab operators that as of July 1, 2018, successful completion of the uniform curriculum is a requirement for the issuance of both an initial and renewal of taxicab operator licenses. 

Administrative Issuance AI-2018-03  outlines the intent of this training requirement which is designed to improve the image of drivers, enhance and expand the ability of operators to provide specific transportation services, and contribute to overcoming barriers that create marketplace inequities. For further assistance contact [email protected] . 
Heat Emergency Plan

Please be aware of weather conditions during the summer season. When the District of Columbia activates its Heat Emergency Plan, it means temperatures have reached extreme levels that can be dangerous, cause illness, and even lead to death. So be proactive and take the necessary safety steps including the following:
  • Take regular breaks in the shade or in an air conditioned place
  • Do not leave children or pets unattended in vehicles
  • Drink plenty of fluids; avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Wear light clothing and use sunscreen
  • Check on neighbors who are elderly or persons with disabilities
Additional information including a list of cooling stations can be found at ready.dc.gov  
The Weekly Dropoff Podcast

The Weekly Dropoff podcast is continuing to provide an entertaining platform of information, updates and interviews regarding the for-hire industry. The First Friday Live shows - which occur at 1:00 pm on the first Friday of each month - have proven to be very popular by encouraging listener call-in interaction.

Check out episodes anytime on the DC Glovebox; the DFHV Soundcloud Channel; or by calling 605.468.5807 which also offers an option to hear Ethiopian radio stations. Upcoming shows include a new "Ask the Producer" feature and an interview with the head of Destination DC. So whenever you need a pick-me-up...make sure you tune into the Weekly Dropoff.

The Weekly Dropoff
Resource Center
Effective July 3, 2018, the Client Services Resource Center will be available on every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Drivers are encouraged to come in during this period for assistance with online submissions and/or to complete the required online training courses. Laptops will be on-site for use so take advantage of this opportunity to receive specialized one-on-one service. The Client Services Center can also be conveniently contacted anytime by submitting questions to the  DFHV Inquiry Form . Replies will be sent within 24 hours or the next business day.  
Contact Information
All owners and operators licensed by or registered with the Department of For-Hire Vehicles are required to maintain their current contact information on file which must include a current mailing address, phone number and email address. Client Services will not conduct a transaction without verification.
   
Tell Us What You Think
Your feedback is critical for the Department of For-Hire Vehicles. The suggestions and observations received from those in the industry, related stakeholders and the general public offer useful insight that shapes policies, programs and regulations.  Give Feedback . 
Department of For-Hire Vehicles 
2235 Shannon Place, SE, Suite 3001
Washington, DC 20020
202.645.7300