5 Common Mistakes During TLC Insurance Renewals (and How to Avoid Them)

Renewal Season is Here—Are You Ready?

March 1st is just around the corner, and for thousands of taxi, ride-share, and limousine drivers in New York City, that means one thing: TLC Insurance renewal season. It’s crunch time to get your paperwork in order, pay your deposit, and avoid any last-minute headaches that could take you off the road. 
But here’s the good news: Renewing your TLC insurance doesn’t have to be stressful. By steering clear of common mistakes, you can make the process smooth and hassle-free. Whether you’re driving through NYC’s busy streets or working in Nassau, Suffolk Counties, or upstate New York, these tips will help you stay on track. 

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute

Why it’s a problem: Many drivers delay starting the renewal process, thinking they have plenty of time. Unfortunately, this often leads to:

• Missed deadlines
• Revocation of the vehicle registration and drivers license
• Losing valuable TLC plates altogether

How to avoid it: Start early! January and February are the perfect times to get everything done. Call your broker, gather your documents, and check your insurance well before the rush. 

2. Not Having the Right Documents Ready

Why it’s a problem: Missing paperwork is one of the most common reasons renewals get delayed. Commonly forgotten documents include: 

• TLC vehicle registration and vehicle title 
• Current TLC insurance policy declaration
• Driver’s license, TLC license, DDC certificate, corporate documents (if applicable)

How to avoid it: Use a checklist! Having a clear list of what you need can save you time and frustration. If you’re unsure, contact Interwest United Insurance Brokerage for guidance—they’re experts in TLC insurance. 

3. Overlooking Insurance Requirements

Why it’s a problem: TLC has specific insurance requirements for liability limits. Ridesharing platforms UBER and LYFT require TLC drivers to upload updated/ renewed insurance ID cards through the app. One day before the insurance expiration date, the platform could disconnect the driver and the car is no longer in the network to accept job requests. 
How to avoid it: 

• Work with an experienced broker, like Interwest United Insurance Brokerage, to ensure your policy is TLC-compliant
• Make sure not only to renew your policy, but upload updated insurance ID cards through the app

4. Ignoring Communication from the TLC

Why it’s a problem: The TLC sends out renewal notices, updates, and reminders via email only (sometimes there is a phone call)! Ignoring these can lead to missed deadlines, TLC vehicle plates and/or TLC license suspension. 
How to avoid it: 

• Regularly check your email, expecting TLC inspection appointment notification every 4 months
• Make sure your contact information is up-to-date with the TLC
• Stay alert for notifications and request from UBER, Lyft and/ or TLC resulting from consumer complaints to avoid missing TLC hearing and assure you are eligible to keep working 

5. Not having paperwork for past accidents 

Why it’s a problem: TLS insurers require timely accident reporting and may request driver’s statements (MV104) for up to 7 years back. Missing driver’s statements result in delay getting approved insurance renewal quotes and subsequently losing TLC insurance policy altogether. 
How to avoid it: 

• Make sure to keep copies of complete driver’s statements and other accident related paperwork and photos for at least 10 years 
• Accurate record keeping is especially important when the vehicle owner is not the driver. Vehicle owners must keep records on all drivers they hire through all the years. 

Serving Drivers Beyond NYC
While New York City is the hub for TLC drivers, Interwest United Insurance Brokerage also serves clients across New York State. Other regions may have different insurance requirements and Interwest’s team is here to help you navigate them with ease. 
Why Interwest United Insurance is Your Go-To Partner
With over 30 years of experience, Interwest United Insurance Brokerage is more than just an insurance provider—they’re your partner in keeping your business running smoothly. They’ve helped thousands of drivers avoid pitfalls during renewal season and have the expertise to make sure your insurance is tailored to your needs. 

Need help with your Renewal? Have Questions About TLC Insurance? Contact Us Today!
At Interwest, we’re here to answer your TLC insurance questions, and ensure you’re ready for March 1st without the stress. Call us at (718) 645-0001 or email us at [email protected] to get started. 
Let’s make this renewal season your smoothest one yet—because you deserve to focus on driving, not paperwork.