November 2016
Director  Ernest Chrappah
 
Streamlining the Application Process

The Department of For-Hire Vehicles continues to leverage technology to benefit operators and clients. The objective is to develop efficient methods that will result in saving time and money. The agency has implemented an online process to submit One Stop Forms, apply for the Certificate of Operating Authority and receive Special Event Permits. Our Vehicle Inspection Officers now have the capability to accept electronic insurance cards as proof that an operator is in compliance with the requirement to have valid insurance. 

DFHV is reviewing new ideas, programs and technology to determine the effects on the transportation ecosystem. With increased competition that includes technology companies, auto manufacturers and private vehicle operators as well as  passengers seeking better service at lower prices, the economic pressure on the for-hire vehicle industry is great. Thus, we intend to place a priority on fulfilling our objective to set a regulatory environment that promotes safety, allows for innovation, decreases the burden of regulations while ensuring compliance and encourages excellent service.
Industry Updates

Union Station
The following updates are critical to the operators in the for-hire vehicle industry to be aware of:
  • The statutory requirement for a Public Hearing on Taxicab Rate Structure was conducted on November 4 to consider possible revisions to fares in District taxis. Your comments and opinions are welcome.
  • Chapter 5 regulations have become effective upon their publication in the DC Register. This rulemaking establishes the requirements for independent taxicab owners to apply for certificates of operating authority.
  • Drivers are advised NOT to dispose of their personal waste, trash or hazardous waste on the Union Station property and ramps. MPD will take action to include issuing Barring Notices in lieu of any fines or citations.
     
Presidential Inauguration Special Event Decals

The inauguration of the 45th President of the United States is scheduled for Friday, January 20, 2017. DFHV would like to ensure that for-hire vehicles comply with the requirement to apply for Special Event decals. The decals allow out-of-market operators to conduct point-to-point transportation within the District. These permits support the needs of the significant number of visitors who want to move throughout the city. The process is easy. Just submit an application through the DFHV online portal, pay the fee and once approved the decal(s) will be sent to the address on file.
DC Taxi Index

The Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV) is using big data to study the market in order to enhance the quality of service for residents and visitors. The DC Taxi Index was created by DFHV as a quantitative measure of economic activity; similar to the Big Mac Index invented by The Economist as an informal measurement of purchasing power, DFHV is leveraging analytics to demonstrate that taxicabs remain a vital part of the city's transportation ecosystem. As such, taxi trips can tell a lot about what is happening in the city. The latest insight shows the 10 most popular pick up and drop off zip codes in the District. 

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. 

Top 10 Most Popular Drop Off Zip Codes
Top 10 Most Popular Pick Up Zip Codes
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