When and how did the new accessible taxi service start?

Wheelchair accessible taxi service was introduced in D.C. in January 2010. The service is a pilot project, funded through the Federal Transit Administration, the D.C. Taxicab Commission (DCTC), and two local taxi companies. Twenty (20) ramp-equipped, ADA-compliant mini-vans were purchased, and the two participating taxi companies have placed the vans into taxi service after their drivers receive special training for the service.

The pilot project is overseen by the Transportation Planning Board (TPB) through the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.

Who can use the service?

Individuals who use wheelchairs or scooters and cannot use traditional taxi sedans. Some individuals who use manual wheelchairs can use a traditional taxi sedan by transferring to the sedan seat. These individuals may prefer to continue using traditional taxi sedans as they may receive service more quickly because there are many more taxi sedans than wheelchair accessible taxi vehicles.

How can I get a trip on a wheelchair accessible taxi vehicle?

Call one of the two taxi companies participating in the pilot:
Royal Taxi 202-398-0500 or www.DCtaxionline.com (to be launched February 2011) Yellow Taxi 202-544-1213 or www.dcyellowcab.com If you call one company and their wheelchair taxis are busy, that company will transfer your trip request to the other company.