July 2017
Director  Ernest Chrappah
 
Resource Center

The Department of For-Hire Vehicles has created a Resource Center for ALL drivers, owners, and operators to provide hands-on support to navigate agency services, products, and special permits. Receive one-on-one support with service processing, online applications, website navigation, and grant and special permit applications. The Resource Center is located at Client Services and will be available every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm.  

DFHV will continue to pursue innovations to further develop creative solutions to improve service and consider new features to assist with the evolution of the industry. The Resource Center should be leveraged to help understand regulatory policy and programs changes including the upcoming transition to the Digital Taxicab Solution (DTS) to take advantage of emerging economic opportunities and  innovative technologies.
DTS Tele-Town Hall

The Digital Taxicab Solution (DTS) is coming! District taxicabs will transition to a digital platform by August 31, 2017. Taxi operators are expected to realize up to a 65% drop in operating costs. Lower expenses for equipment will help level the competitive playing field for taxis. DFHV will conduct a telephone-based town hall with Director Chrappah on Thursday, August 3, 2017 at 1:00 pm. Participants will be able to ask the Director questions about DTS, and get status updates regarding installations, technology, pricing, and more. To participate call  (855)-756-7520 extension 36010# (pound).

Electric Vehicles - Fast Charging Stations

 Fast Charging Stations Exclusively for Taxis
at Union Station
DFHV has made the commitment to fulfill the Clean Energy initiative of the Bowser Administration by supporting efforts to become a more environmentally friendly city. DFHV is taking steps to provide the necessary infrastructure to support the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as taxis by providing partial funding for the installation of Fast Charging Stations at Union Station for the exclusive use of taxis.

In addition to fuel savings, lower maintenance costs, and offering passengers a quieter and smoother ride, EVs produce the environmental benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to improve the city's climate.
Vehicle Age Requirements

DFHV will strictly enforce the vehicle age rules beginning Monday, July 31, 2017. All vehicles model year 2009 and older will have their MTS units deactivated starting Monday, July 31, 2017. It is illegal to operate a taxicab with a deactivated MTS unit. All DFHV-licensed taxicab companies and associations; rental drivers; and independent owners are advised that vehicles discovered providing service while deactivated may be ticketed and towed. If you believe deactivation is in error, visit DFHV Client Services and bring all documents with you.
Public Hearing
DFHV Public Hearing

DFHV will conduct a public hearing on Wednesday, August 9 at 10:00 am in the Second Floor Hearing Room at 2235 Shannon Place, SE. The purpose of the hearing is to review the regulations regarding for-hire vehicle loitering. Generally, the violation of "Lo itering" means staying too long in one place, either before picking up or after discharging a passenger . This act is prohibited in order to reduce congestion at taxi stands, businesses, and venues; and to promote safety by preventing traffic clogs. All for-hire vehicles are subject to these rules.  
 
Among the issues for consideration are the following:
  • How should "loitering" be defined   
  • How should the loitering rules be enforced
  • Should loitering be allowed in certain locations or at certain times
  • Should all for-hire vehicles be subject to the same rules
Those interested in testifying must register by calling (202) 645-6002 by August 8th at 3:00 pm. Prior to testifying, ten (10) copies of the written testimony should be submitted to the DFHV Secretary. Public testimony may be limited depending on attendance and time constraints.    
DFHV Facebook Page
   
DFHV is now on Facebook. Visit our page and Like us! The social media platform will allow DFHV to further engage with the public as well as industry stakeholders. Facebook has become a dominant force for information sharing and thus it is important that our voice is there to be heard. It can also provide an opportunity to share good stories, post fun images, and get direct feedback about vehicle operations, policy proposals, and relevant news that can impact the for-hire business. So please accept our invitation to follow DFHV on Facebook and invite your friends.

DFHV on Facebook

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