Created in 1971 by Local Law No. 12, the Taxi and Limousine Commission is a Charter-mandated agency, the purpose of which is the continuance, further development and improvement of taxi and for-hire vehicle service in the City of New York. The Commission is also responsible for licensing and regulating for-hire vehicle, commuter van and wheelchair-accessible van services as it relates to the overall public transportation network of the City; to establish taxicab rates for all regulated industries, standards of service, standards of insurance and minimum coverage; standards for driver safety; standards for equipment safety and design; and standards and criteria for the licensing of vehicles, drivers and operators engaged in such services.
The Commission shall consist of nine members (eight unsalaried) to be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the City Council; five of said members, one resident from each of the five boroughs of New York City, shall be recommended for appointment by a majority vote of the council members of each respective borough.