LADOT

TIPS & FAQ's

Taxicab Vehicle Regulations

Taxicab Vehicle Regulations

There are many taxicabs and so-called “vehicles-for-hire” that operate in Southern California. Only taxicabs with authorized City seals on their doors are allowed to pick up passengers within the city limits of the City of Los Angeles.

The regulation of the taxicab industry by the Los Angeles Department of Transportation and the Taxicab Commission ensures that service levels are maintained, vehicles are periodically inspected and drivers are tested.

LADOT currently regulates the taxi services of nine companies authorized to operate in the City. They are:

• Bell Cab
• Beverly Hills Cab
• City Cab
• Independent Taxi
• LA Checker Cab

• United Checker Cab
• United Independent Taxi Drivers (UITD)
• United Taxi of San Fernando Valley (UTSFV)
• Yellow Cab

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation mandates that all taxicabs use meters to determine a ride’s cost. The City establishes meter rates, including a flat rate between the Los Angeles International Airport and Downtown. For information on current fares, visit the Taxicab website.

City residents should be cautious about using services from “bandit” taxicabs. Bandit cabs are taxicab companies or individual drivers that are not regulated by LADOT and are not authorized to pick up riders within the City of Los Angeles city limits.

Bandit cabs are not allowed to post a City seal on their doors. Be aware of counterfeit seals.

Report taxicab service issues by calling (800) 501-0999.

LADOT, along with the Transportation Commission, also regulates other types of vehicles for hire, including private ambulances, non-ambulatory vehicles and buses. The State Public Utilities Commission regulates limousines and charter buses.

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