Passenger Rights & Regulations – Yellow Cabs
Official Rules for Riding Yellow Cabs in New York City
Every passenger using a Yellow Cab in New York City is protected by clear and enforceable rules set by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). These regulations exist to ensure fair pricing, safe travel, equal access, and transparent service across the entire city.
This page explains your passenger rights and Yellow Cab regulations in NYC, so you know exactly what to expect when you step into a licensed Yellow Cab.
Who Regulates Yellow Cabs in NYC?
All Yellow Cabs operate under the authority of the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC).
The TLC regulates:
Driver licensing and conduct
Vehicle safety and inspections
Fare structures and meters
Passenger rights and complaint procedures
Only TLC-licensed Yellow Cabs are legally allowed to accept street hails anywhere in New York City.
Your Right to Service
When Can a Yellow Cab Refuse a Passenger?
Yellow Cabs Must Accept Passengers Citywide
Yellow Cab drivers may not refuse a passenger based on:
Destination within NYC
Short trip distance
Payment method (cash or card)
Race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or disability
Yellow Cabs are authorized for citywide pickup, including all areas of Manhattan, the boroughs, and airports.
Limited Legal Reasons for Refusal
A Yellow Cab driver may refuse service only if:
The passenger poses a safety risk
The vehicle has reached legal passenger capacity
The destination is outside permitted service areas
The passenger requests illegal activity
Unjustified refusals are TLC violations.
Metered Fares & Pricing Transparency
Mandatory Meter Usage
All Yellow Cab trips must:
Use the official TLC taximeter
Start the meter at the beginning of the trip
Display the fare clearly throughout the ride
Drivers may not negotiate or set custom fares.
What the Fare Includes
Yellow Cab fares are regulated and include:
Base fare
Distance- and time-based charges
Night and peak-hour surcharges
Tolls (itemized separately)
Passengers have the right to see the meter at all times.
Airport Fare Rules (Important)
JFK Airport Flat Fare
Yellow Cabs are the only taxis authorized to offer the official flat fare between JFK Airport and Manhattan, as set by the TLC.
Flat fare applies only to JFK ↔ Manhattan trips
Tolls and surcharges may apply
Metered fares apply for all other routes
Drivers must follow official fare rules exactly.
Payment Rights: Cash, Cards & Receipts
Accepted Payment Methods
Yellow Cabs must accept:
Cash
Credit cards
Debit cards
Contactless and electronic payments
Drivers may not demand cash-only payment.
Receipts
Passengers have the right to:
Request a printed or digital receipt
Review fare details, taxi number, and driver information
Passenger Safety & Vehicle Standards
TLC regulations require Yellow Cabs to:
Pass regular safety inspections
Provide seat belts for all passengers
Maintain clean, functional interiors
Display taxi identification clearly
Passengers may decline a ride if a vehicle appears unsafe.
Accessibility & Non-Discrimination
Equal Treatment for All Passengers
Yellow Cab drivers:
Must not discriminate against any passenger
Must accept service animals without extra charge
Must comply with accessibility rules where applicable
Discrimination of any kind is strictly prohibited.
Passenger Capacity & Luggage Rules
Maximum passenger count is defined by the vehicle
Luggage must be transported if it fits safely
No additional fees may be charged for luggage
Airport trips with luggage are fully permitted.
Lost Property in Yellow Cabs
If you leave an item behind:
Note the taxi medallion number
Check your receipt for driver details
Contact the NYC TLC Lost & Found service
Acting quickly improves recovery chances.
Reporting Problems or Filing Complaints
Passengers may report:
Overcharging or meter issues
Refusal of service
Unsafe driving
Discrimination or misconduct
Complaints can be filed with the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission using taxi information from your receipt.
Why Passenger Rights Matter
Passenger rights exist to:
Protect riders from unfair practices
Ensure safe and reliable transportation
Maintain professional standards
Build trust in NYC’s taxi system
Knowing your rights helps ensure a smoother ride.
Summary: Your Rights in Yellow Cabs
When you ride a Yellow Cab in NYC, you are entitled to:
Transparent, metered fares
Equal access to service anywhere in the city
Safe, licensed vehicles
Clear complaint procedures
Yellow Cabs remain one of the most reliable and regulated transportation options in New York City.
Learn More About Riding Yellow Cabs
For practical guidance on hailing, paying, and riding Yellow Cabs, continue here and click the buttons: