TLC inspection prep: a checklist for NYC rideshare drivers

What to bring

• Your vehicle registration.
• A valid TLC driver’s license or state driver’s license.

If you don’t bring both, the vehicle will not be inspected.

What gets checked

TLC’s inspection covers the New York State (DMV) safety and emissions items plus TLC’s own requirements. That includes brakes, seat belts, lights, suspension parts and the emissions system.

Attempts, timing and missed appointments

• You have four attempts to pass. After a first failure, you get three more attempts within 60 days of your first inspection.
• If you arrive more than one hour after your scheduled time, your base has to request a new appointment, and the missed appointment counts as your first attempt.

If the vehicle fails

• Failed the DMV portion: your inspection report lists the defects. Fix them and return during the facility’s operating hours. You don’t need an appointment for a re-inspection.
• Failed the TLC portion: you receive a Notice of Violation listing the defects and a compliance date. Fix them and return before that date to avoid a TLC summons. No appointment is needed.

Pre-inspection checklist

• Brake pads and rotors: no grinding, no pulling, pedal firm.
• Tires: enough tread, no bulges or cuts in the sidewalls.
• All lights work, including brake lights, turn signals and the license plate light.
• Windshield free of cracks in the driver’s view, and wipers that clear properly.
• Horn works, and every seat belt latches and releases.
• Check engine light off, and readiness monitors ready (don’t clear codes right before inspection).
• No clunks from the suspension and no fluid leaks.

How we handle it here

• We check the items above before your appointment and tell you exactly what would fail.
• We repair what you approve, with the price given before any work starts, and confirm the readiness monitors before you go.
• We are a New York State DMV licensed inspection station in Long Island City, a short drive from TLC’s Woodside facility.
• We are open 24/7, so you can come in before or after your shift, and we speak English and Spanish.

Yellow and green taxis

This checklist is for for-hire vehicles (rideshare and livery). Yellow and green taxis follow their own inspection schedule; check TLC’s vehicle inspections page for the current rules.