For every New York City TLC-licensed driver, your vehicle isn’t just for transportation—it’s also a regulated space that must display official decals. These decals are more than stickers; they prove your compliance with Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) rules and make your car identifiable to passengers, inspectors, and law enforcement.
What Are TLC Mandatory Decals?
TLC decals are required stickers and markings that serve three main purposes:
Identification – Allowing TLC officials, law enforcement, and the public to recognize licensed vehicles.
Compliance – Showing your vehicle meets TLC standards.
Passenger Safety – Providing information such as your TLC license number.
Only decals issued or approved by the TLC are valid. Unauthorized versions are violations.
1. TLC License Number Sticker (Required for All TLC Vehicles)
The license number decal is mandatory for every TLC-licensed vehicle.
Purpose: Displays your official TLC license number.
Rule Reference: TLC Rules §59B-15 (FHVs) and §82-15 (Taxicabs).
Specifications:
At least 3 inches high.
Contrasting color to vehicle paint.
Placed on both sides of the vehicle (rear quarter panels or doors).
Issued By: TLC or authorized vendors. Must be replaced if damaged or faded.
Non-compliance: Failure results in inspection failure and possible fines.
2. “Accessible” Sticker (For Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles Only)
This decal applies only to Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs).
Purpose: Identifies the car as accessible for passengers using wheelchairs.
Rule Reference: TLC Rules §59B-15(e).
Specifications:
Bold white text: ACCESSIBLE.
Blue background.
Size: 8.5” x 4.5”.
Placement: Both front doors, centered and visible.
Issued By: Only from TLC-authorized decal providers.
Non-compliance: Immediate inspection failure.
3. The “Clean Air” Sticker – No Longer Required
History: Once required for hybrid, electric, and clean-air vehicles.
Update: As of 2022, this decal is no longer mandatory.
Tip: Remove outdated decals to avoid confusion.
Common Decal Mistakes That Fail Inspections
| Mistake | What Happens | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Faded, peeling, or missing decals | Failed inspection | Replace before inspection |
| Wrong placement (too small, on wrong part of car) | Failed inspection | Follow TLC size and placement rules exactly |
| Unauthorized/self-printed decals | Fines + failed inspection | Use only TLC-approved vendors |
| Missing one side (only driver’s side) | Failed inspection | Check both sides regularly |
Inspection-Ready Checklist
Before your TLC inspection, ask yourself:
✔ Is my TLC license number visible on both sides, at least 3” high, and in a contrasting color?
✔ If I drive a WAV, are my ACCESSIBLE decals properly sized and on both front doors?
✔ Are my decals free from damage, fading, or peeling?
✔ Have I removed outdated decals like the Clean Air sticker?
Where to Find Official TLC Rules
For the most accurate information, always check the official TLC site:
TLC Homepage: https://www.nyc.gov/site/tlc/index.page
Vehicle Rules Portal: https://www.nyc.gov/site/tlc/vehicles/vehicles.page
Accessible Vehicle Info: https://www.nyc.gov/site/tlc/vehicles/accessible-vehicles.page
To locate decal rules quickly:
- Open the For-Hire Vehicle or Taxicab Rules PDF.
- Use search (Ctrl+F / Command+F).
- Look for §59B-15, §82-15, or “accessible.”
Final Thoughts
Decals may seem small, but they carry big weight. They keep you compliant, visible, and inspection-ready. Stay on top of your decal condition, placement, and updates so you avoid unnecessary fines or downtime. A quick walk-around check before hitting the road can save you hours later.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with the NYC TLC.
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