Contact: Neville Waters (202) 645-6020; [email protected]

The DC Taxicab Commission (DCTC) today announced that four drivers have acknowledged violations of Title 31 that requires DC taxicabs to accept payments by credit or debit cards. These actions are the first cases to be reviewed and resolved of the 72 passenger complaints received by DCTC since the October 1, 2013 deadline when all DC taxicabs were required to accept payments by credit or debit cards.

In addition to accepting fines, the four drivers also were responsible for undertaking repairs if their meters were malfunctioning. Passenger complaints included not accepting cashless payments, claims of non-working equipment and refusal to transport rather than accept a cashless payment. The specific violations under Title 31 would be charging an improper fare; operating with a non-functioning meter; or refusal to haul. Penalties range from $150 to $1,000 for each infraction.

Upon receiving passenger complaints, DCTC undertakes an investigation to determine what, if any, infraction has occurred and if any mechanical malfunctions need to be addressed. The dispute resolution process can take between 30 to 60 days and results with drivers having the opportunity to accept penalties issued by DCTC or seek adjudication through the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). 

Passengers are advised to notify DCTC with any complaints by completing a form online at: www.dctaxi.dc.gov/service/complaints. DCTC encourages customers to contact the office with their concerns by email at [email protected] or by calling 855-484-4966.