Press Release

PUC: Drivers Who Transport People for Compensation Require State Certification

Published on 9/6/2006

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is reminding people that it is unlawful to transport people for compensation without holding a PUC certificate of public convenience.  The PUC Pittsburgh and Altoona District Offices have recently received reports of uncertificated van transportation in the Pittsburgh and Altoona area.

The PUC issues certificates for the transportation of passengers and property between points in the state.  Passenger certificates are issued for taxi, limousine, van and bus service.  The PUC monitors certificated carriers for insurance coverage, driver and vehicle safety, rates, territory and service.

Drivers should be aware that it is unlawful to transport people for compensation without a PUC certificate.  Certificated taxis and vans are required to display their company name and PUC identification number in 2-inch block lettering on both sides of the vehicle.  Other than limousines, a vehicle without these markings is not a PUC licensed vehicle, and consumers should not use the vehicle.

Anyone interested in providing this type of transportation service may call the PUC Compliance Office at (717) 787-3834, the Pittsburgh District Office at (412) 565-3553 or the Altoona District Office at (814) 946-7318.  Applications are also available on the PUC's website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as stewards of competition

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Contact:

• Cyndi Page
  Sr. Communications Specialist
  717-214-5434
  cypage@pa.gov