The Taxi Bureau issues two types of Taxi Driver Licenses, a 60 day probationary license, and 2-year Taxi Driver Licenses.
Probationary Taxi Driver License
1. A potential taxi driver must obtain "broker's letter" or letter of intent to hire from one of the Taxicab Medallion holders.
2. The applicant must come to the Taxi Bureau located at the Somerville Police Station at 220 Washington Street. The person fills out an application for a Taxi Driver's License.
3. The Taxi Bureau performs a background check on the applicant. If the person passes the background check he/she is given an appointment to take to the Taxi Exam.
4. On Thursday, by appointment, from 7AM - 12PM the Taxi Bureau gives a 40 question multiple choice exam based on the Taxi Rules, ability to read a map and a person's knowledge of the city. Upon passing the exam an applicant will be issued a 60-day probationary Taxi Driver's License.
Two-Year Taxi Driver License
Once a Taxi Driver completes his/her 60-day probationary period without any problems they will be issued a two-year Taxi Driver's License. The cost is payable in money order only. We do not accpet cash, checks or credit cards. All two-year licenses expire on May 1st.
Taxi Medallions
Taxi cabs are subject to two types of inspections, the Random inspection and the Yearly inspection.
Yearly Inspections
All Taxi Medallions must be renewed by the end of June of each year. Prior to the renewal each Taxi Meter must have current seal from the, Division of Weights and Measures on the meter. A copy of the inspection form and flier will be left in each broker's mailbox at Green Cab weeks before inspections begin. The yearly Taxi inspections are on a "first come first serve" basis. The inspection will take approximately, 15-20 minutes. Each Taxi cab to be inspected must bring a typed inspection form, a copy of the registration and a copy of the current meter seal.
Random Insection
According to City Ordinance the Taxi Sergeant has the right to stop a Taxicab at anytime to conduct a random taxi inspection. Normally the random inspections are held at the taxi stands while the cabs are at rest and not on call. The random inspection consists of the following. A check of the cab for cleanliness inside and out, all lights are working, the driver is wearing his/her Taxi License, the driver has an active trip sheet, and the driver is wearing proper attire.