Press Release

PUC Reminds Drivers that Any Transportation for Compensation Requires State Certificate

Published on 5/3/2007

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG, PA - The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) reminds drivers that transporting a passenger for compensation – including people whose personal convictions prevent them from driving – requires proper state certification.

“Any time you transport someone for compensation you must carry a certificate from the PUC,” said Commission Chairman Wendell Holland. “By making certain all drivers who hold themselves out for hire have certificates, we are ensuring not only the safety of the driver and passengers but of all those using our roadways.”

It is unlawful to transport any passenger for compensation without holding a PUC Certificate of Public Convenience. The Commission has been receiving numerous reports of non-certificated cars and vans providing service throughout the state.

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.

Certificated taxis and vans are required to display their company name and PUC identification number in 2-inch-high 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 transportation service may call the PUC Application office at 717-787-3834.  Applications are also available on the PUC website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

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Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722