Miami-Dade Expands Luxury Sedan For-Hire Access
Miami-Dade removes cap on luxury sedan licenses, accepts applications weekdays
Miami-Dade Opens Luxury Sedan Licenses to All
Miami-Dade County's opened unlimited luxury sedan for-hire licenses to qualified applicants starting September 1, 2022, transit officials said. The change removes previous caps on the number of licenses available for high-end sedan limousine services operating countywide. Applications are accepted weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with same-day decal issuance available for complete submissions.
Background on For-Hire Licensing
Miami-Dade County regulates for-hire limousine services countywide under Chapter 31, Article VI of the County Code, according to the transit agency. Unlike metered taxis, limousines must be pre-arranged through written, electronic or telephone reservations made in advance by customers. The county offers various license categories including luxury sedans, SUVs, stretch limousines, limo vans, and ancient, antique or collectible vehicles. Officials didn't specify how many licenses were issued under the previous limited system or how many have been issued since the September 2022 change.
Vehicle and Operator Requirements
Luxury sedan or SUV limousines must have a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price of $45,000 or higher and can't be older than 10 model years, officials said. All vehicles placed into service must pass inspection and receive valid operating permit decals. Operators must obtain a chauffeur's license before driving a for-hire limousine. Additional requirements include a Local Business Tax issued by Miami-Dade County and valid chauffeur registration for all drivers.
Application Process Timeline
The application review process typically takes two to four weeks depending on how complete the application is at submission, according to the county. Walk-in applications are accepted Monday through Friday during business hours. Same-day decal issuance is available for applications that meet all requirements upon submission. Officials didn't provide data on average processing times or approval rates for luxury sedan license applications.
Impact on For-Hire Transportation
The unlimited licensing policy allows more qualified operators to enter Miami-Dade's luxury for-hire transportation market. Prospective limousine operators can obtain detailed licensing requirements and application information through the county's regulatory office during weekday business hours. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for ground transportation options throughout Miami-Dade County.
