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Taxi, For-Hire, and Transportation Network Company (TNC) Licensing

Information about taxi, for-hire, and transportation network company (TNC) licenses, permits, and other resources.

All for-hire drivers, vehicles, and the companies they drive for must be approved by King County. They must also follow King County for-hire transportation rules and regulations.

Limousines, town cars, executive vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars are not regulated by King County. Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing to learn more about these services.

New training required for taxi and for-hire vehicle drivers
Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Training is required for all new and renewing regional for-hire driver's license applicants beginning November 1, 2024. There is no cost to complete the training.

Medallion Exchange

Medallion Exchange

Check out the Medallion Exchange for people looking to buy, sell, or lease taxi medallions!

Types of for-hire transportation

Taxi

Graphic illustrating Taxi vehicle type

Taxicabs are painted one solid color and can be hailed from the street, dispatched from a phone call, or called through an app. Fares are calculated based on time and distance, measured by a taximeter. See a list of currently licensed providers.

Flat-rate For-Hire vehicles

Graphic illustrating For-Hire vehicle type

Unlike taxis, for-hire vehicles charge a fixed fare per trip (based on pick up and drop off ZIP codes in a published rate book) and are painted at least two colors. See a list of currently licensed providers.

Transportation Network Companies (TNCs)

Graphic illustrating TNC vehicle type

Transportation Network Companies or TNCs are app-based ride services with fares set by the TNC. They connect riders with drivers and accept only electronic payment through a smartphone app. See a list of currently licensed providers.

Visiting our office? Join the line with QLess

The King County Customer Service Center uses a virtual queue called QLess. You can join the line using the QLess sign-in stations in the lobby, or join before you arrive to save time. Here's how:

  1. Join the line with this link or by texting the phrase Join the CSC Line to 206-539-0413.
  2. Wait where you want and we'll send you texts about your place in line.

Join the Line with QLess

Request in-person ADA accommodation

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