FMCSA or TLC? Know Which Rules Apply to You
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has introduced new rules for 2025 that affect fleets across the U.S., including New York. Updates cover electronic logging devices (ELDs), medical certifications, and the phase-out of MC numbers. For operators of trucks, vans, or vehicles over 10,000 lbs, these changes matter — they shape compliance, audits, contracts, and bring penalties that can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
If you’re running for-hire passenger cars though, fret not — FMCSA rules generally do not apply. However, FMCSA oversight can still kick in under certain conditions, such as:
If the vehicle is used for interstate trips (crossing state lines for hire) If the service operates under a broker/carrier model that files with USDOT If the car is part of a larger mixed fleet that includes FMCSA-regulated vehicles
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For everyday local for-hire trips, FMCSA isn’t the main concern. Instead, the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) sets the standards that matter most to passenger car operators.
TLC 2025 Updates You Should Know
Driver Pay & Lockout Rules (Source)
As of June 25, 2025, TLC approved a 5% pay increase for high-volume drivers (Uber, Lyft, etc.). Apps must now give 72 hours’ notice before lockouts and allow drivers up to 16 hours of log-in time per shift. Non-compliance can result in $500 fines per violation.
Lower Insurance Costs (Source)
In July 2025, Mayor Adams signed a law reducing Personal Injury Protection (PIP) requirements from $200,000 to $100,000 per person, helping lower premiums. A TLC hearing on the change is set for September 3, 2025.
Fair Pay Transparency (Source)
Since March 2025, apps must report driver status every 60 seconds and use stricter pay formulas to ensure fairer earnings.
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Why This Matters
If you operate mixed fleets (cars plus vans or larger shuttles), FMCSA rules may still apply to part of your business. If you run private car fleets in NYC, focus on TLC rules — they directly impact pay, scheduling, insurance, and transparency.
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With Darter, you get the best of both: compliance-ready tools with built-in reporting and scheduling that help you stay aligned with TLC standards.
Questions about our features or want guidance on best practices? Reach us at support@darter.ai
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