Department of For-Hire Vehicles
Newsletter

September 2016
Acting Director
Ernest Chrappah
 
The Future of the For-Hire Industry

The for-hire transportation industry continues its dynamic evolution. Non-cash payments, electronic hailing, driverless and electric vehicles are shaping the industry. Competitors now include technology companies, auto manufacturers and car rental services.  Today's passengers want better service at lower prices. Economic pressure on taxicabs from increased competition makes it clear that better service or boutique premium offerings is critical to the taxi market in the for-hire industry. In order to cut taxi operating expenses in a declining market, promote safety and welfare, encourage advance planning, and reduce the burden of regulations, the Department of For-Hire Vehicles is revamping equipment rules and payment service provider structure. T he industry must become agile enough to respond to consumer preferences, technology and other factors that continue to evolve. 
Pilot Programs

Town Hall
The Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) is ramping up activities for pilot programs to assess or expand economic opportunities for drivers. As such, drivers who wish to participate and give feedback on new technology, equipment, or services that may enhance operations should sign up. Send your contact information to DFHV.ClientServices@dc.gov. We are currently accepting limited applicants for package deliveries. Drivers can earn up to $22/hour. Be your own boss and schedule your own time. Other opportunities include using a digital taximeter and innovative payment systems.

Upcoming Town Hall

All are invited to attend the upcoming town hall with the DFHV leadership on Thursday, September 29 at 1:00 pm at 2235 Shannon Place, SE in the Second Floor Hearing Room. Come listen, learn and express yourself.  
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Top 10 Most Popular Restaurant Destinations
DC Taxi Index

The reorganized Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) is using big data to study the market and leverage the information to enhance the quality of service for residents and visitors. Based on the analytics the DC Taxi Index was created by DFHV as a quantitative measure of economic activity. It is similar to the Big Mac Index invented by The Economist as an informal way of measuring the purchasing power parity of a currency. Taxicabs remain a vital part of the city's transportation ecosystem by moving riders safely across the city. As such, taxi trips can tell a lot about what is happening in the city. One interesting insight is the 10 most popular restaurant destinations listed below. 

In addition, the DFHV External Dashboard provides a snapshot of the DC market. The data offers the basis to encourage robust policy discussions and possible technological developments. 

1.   Rose's Luxury
2.   Le Diplomate
3.   Komi
4.   Thip Khao
5.   Founding Farmers
6.   Zaytinya
7.   Old Ebbitt Grill
8.   Churchkey
9.   Rasika
10. The Red Hen 
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
The Department of For-Hire Vehicles wants your feedback. The opinions and insight we receive from the industry, related stakeholders and the general public gives us useful input that shapes policies, programs and regulations. We want to hear from you!   Give Feedback. 
Department of For-Hire Vehicles 
2235 Shannon Place, SE, Suite 3001
Washington, DC 20020
202.645.7300