Taxi, For-Hire and Transportation Network Companies (TNCs)
Taxi and flat-rate for-hire drivers can now apply & renew online
In-person services closed
Our 2021 For-Hire Transportation Annual Report is now available!
All for-hire drivers, vehicles, and the companies they drive for must be approved by King County and follow King County for-hire transportation regulations and rules. In addition to the overview of for-hire transportation below, you can review our detailed list of licensed/registered providers.
Transportation network companies (TNC)
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. Currently licensed providers:
Taxis
Taxicabs are painted one solid color and can be hailed from the street or dispatched from a phone call. Fares are calculated based on time and distance, measured by a taximeter. Currently licensed providers:
For-hire or flat-rate vehicles
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. Currently licensed providers:
Limousines, town cars, executive vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars are not regulated by King County. Visit Washington State Department of Licensing external link to learn more about these services.
