September 2018
Director  Ernest Chrappah
Transportation as a Service (TaaS)

The Fiscal Year begins October 1 and DFHV has an ambitious initiative to ensure all District residents have access to transportation.  
 
Transportation as a Service (TaaS) is a pilot program designed to overcome transit barriers that many of our citizens face. TaaS is based on providing access to a ride whether you have a smartphone or bank account; accessibility should extend to all regardless of income, physical disability, or age. 

TaaS will offer options to residents who register and qualify for rides. The service is intended to ensure a for-hire vehicle will be available when needed. So please sign up. 


IATR Roundup



The 31st Annual Conference of the International Association of Transportation Regulators (IATR) was recently held in Philadelphia, PA. The conference brings together hundreds of regulators from around the world in the for-hire industry with attendees from Canada, Spain and Dubai, as well as representatives from various U.S. cities including Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, Houston, Austin, and of course, Philadelphia.

Conference panel discussions and presentations hit upon topics ranging from the evolving regulatory environment; accessible transportation; data privacy; self-driving vehicles; and new technologies, products and services. Awards were also presented to both the IATR Regulator and Driver of the Year; and scholarships were presented. The concluding dinner and award ceremonies was held at the "legendary" Moshulu - built in 1904 is the world's oldest and largest square rigged sailing vessel still afloat. The Moshulu venue is in fact the one and only restaurant on a Tall Ship in the world.

The professional networking and sharing of best practices is a valuable experience that is helpful to the for-hire industry. Managing change, understanding the impact of technology and preparing for the future are critical issues facing all industry stakeholders and the public. The Department of the For-Hire Vehicles is recognized as a leader because of the agency's efforts to implement solutions that are creative and innovative.

(L to R) IATR President Matthew Daus and 2017 Awardee DFHV Director Ernest Chrappah present award to 2018 IATR Regulator of the Year Sylvain Tousignant, Development Director of the Ville de Montreal (Bureau of Taxis); with Conference Host James Ney of the Philadelphia Parking Authority joining in


DFHV Acting General Counsel Monique Bocock presenting on data privacy


IATR President Matthew Daus addresses conference attendees
Traffic Advisory

Be advised of upcoming activities in Downtown DC that will likely impact traffic patterns starting Saturday, September 29.

The Atlantic Festival is scheduled to occur for one week from Saturday, September 29 to Saturday, October 6 on F Street, NW, between 7th and 9th streets.

The Navy Mile is on Sunday, September 30 along Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, with no parking  from 5:30 am to 1:00 pm.

The Fiesta DC Festival has been rescheduled to Sunday, September 30 on Constitution Avenue, NW from 9th Street to 14th Street. Streets will be closed the entire day beginning at 12 midnight.

Pay attention to the posted signage as all vehicles that are parked in violation of the emergency "No Parking" signs will be ticketed and towed. Motorists can expect delays in the vicinity of the events; so alternative routes should be considered. Please operate your vehicles with caution given the expected increase in pedestrian traffic. Note events and times are subject to change based upon the prevailing or unexpected conditions.

Get the latest information on traffic patterns, street  closures, and weather by signing up for Alert DC. 
Real-Time Transportation Information is Now Available 

DFHV has launched an application program interface, or API, enabling digital developers to have the capability to integrate innovative programs to enhance mobility options. This central source supports the strategic objective of taking action to overcome transportation barriers, expand economic opportunities and improve the efficiency of for-hire vehicles.

Access to the API provides real-time taxi and limousine availability information within the DC metropolitan area. Interested parties must register at the  DFHV Developer Portal.
Resource Center
The Client Services Resource Center is available on every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Drivers are encouraged to come in during this period for assistance with online submissions and/or to complete the required online training courses. Laptops will be on-site for use so take advantage of this opportunity to receive specialized one-on-one service. The Client Services Center can also be conveniently contacted anytime by submitting questions to the  DFHV Inquiry Form . Replies will be sent within 24 hours or the next business day.  
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
Your feedback is critical for the Department of For-Hire Vehicles. The suggestions and observations received from those in the industry, related stakeholders and the general public offer useful insight that shapes policies, programs and regulations.  Give Feedback . 
Department of For-Hire Vehicles 
2235 Shannon Place, SE, Suite 3001
Washington, DC 20020
202.645.7300