February 2017
Director  Ernest Chrappah
 
Get Ready For the Future

The future is now. It is incumbent on the for-hire industry to recognize that the urgency to adapt is critical to keeping up with progress. Technology has disrupted the traditional method seeking a for-hire ride by shifting public preference from raising a hand to using fingers to press an app. However, the ability to summon a ride on-demand does not change the basic equation that riders are seeking transportation from Point A to Point B and have chosen a for-hire vehicle rather than another means of transit. Passengers still expect an excellent customer experience.

The role of the Department of For-Hire Vehicles is to protect public interest and ensure a fair competitive marketplace. As such, we are working to decrease the cost to operate and reduce the burden of regulations on taxis. The influx of private vehicles (an estimated 170,000) and the uneven regulatory environment are priority issues on which DFHV is focusing. We encourage stakeholder engagement and public feedback to help assess habits and demands. It is clear that data analysis and innovation will impact the implementation of programs and policies that can effectively respond to the uncertainty of the future .
DTS: Digital Taxi Solution

The Department of For-Hire Vehicles is taking a big step toward digital transformation with the introducing of the Digital Taxi Solution (DTS) platform. The new digital platform will mean that only a smartphone or tablet device is needed for customer interactions instead of the traditional taximeter and outdated legacy equipment.
 
Companies interested in becoming a DTS Provider are advised that DFHV is now accepting submissions of the application package. Review the Administrative Issuance Series/Number AI-2017-01 for further guidance. The transition to adopt the DTS is expected to be fully implemented by August 31, 2017.

Benefits and features of DTS include:  
  • Less costly equipment
  • Dynamic pricing to allow discounts or flat fares for street hails
  • iOS and Android compatibility
  • GPS route tracking
  • Driver rating
  • Electronic receipts
  • Frequent rider points
  • Estimated fare calculation before the ride
Vehicle Inspector Officer Complaints
The Department of For-Hire Vehicles has established a mechanism for the confidential submission of complaints against a Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) for alleged improper conduct. The VIO Complaints process will involve a review to determine if any regulations outlined in DCMR Title 31 may have been violated. This ombudsman service is intended to investigate complaints against vehicle inspection officers and facilitate a resolution. There is no cost to drivers and it provides an impartial and confidential channel for addressing concerns.


For-Hire Industry Mediation
DFHV is also authorized to hear complaints and disputes occurring within the vehicle-for-hire industry. DFHV seeks to encourage positive intra-industry relationships and has an interest in assisting these parties to reach a positive resolution. This mediation service is intended to provide a neutral third-party mediator to assist with resolving disputes to avoid timely and costly formal legal action.

Informational sessions regarding these services are scheduled for Friday, February 24 at 2:30 pm and Friday, March 3 at 10:00 am. They will be held at 2235 Shannon Place, SE, in the Second Floor Hearing Room.
For-Hire Vehicle Advisory Council

The For-Hire Vehicle Advisory Council (FHVAC) held its initial meeting to select a Chair, set a schedule for future meetings and develop parameters for meeting their responsibility to advise DFHV on all matters related to the regulation  of the vehicle-for-hire industry. Mr. Linwood Jolly was elected to serve a 3-year term as Chairman of the FHVAC. The terms for the other FHVAC members range from 1, 2, or 3 years. Upcoming meetings this year will be held in June, September and November with specific dates to be announced.

FHVAC Meeting
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