Miami-Dade Taxi Licenses Renewed Annually
Miami-Dade taxi licenses run annually from February 1 to January 31 under medallion system
Miami-Dade Taxi Licenses Valid One Year
Miami-Dade County's taxicab for-hire licenses run for one year, from February 1 to January 31, under the county's medallion system. The Board of County Commissioners oversees the licensing process, which treats medallions as intangible property that can't be freely issued. New licenses are only available through lottery or auction after board approval, officials said. Specific details about how many licenses are currently active or when the next lottery might occur weren't available by publication time.
Medallion System Controls Market Entry
The medallion system limits how many taxis can operate in Miami-Dade County by restricting license availability. County officials said the approach helps regulate service quality and market competition. For-hire licenses are considered intangible property under county rules, meaning they hold value and can be transferred under specific conditions. Transit agencies and local governments typically use medallion systems to balance taxi supply with demand, though specific ridership data for Miami-Dade taxis wasn't available. The county hasn't released information about how many operators currently hold active licenses.
Strict Payment and Inspection Rules Apply
All regulatory and application fees must be paid by check, money order, cashier's check, or credit card—cash isn't accepted, according to county rules. Taxicabs must obtain valid inspection and operating permit decals from the Vehicle Inspection Station before starting operations. Vehicle inspections check for compliance with safety standards including brakes, tires, lights, and cleanliness. Vehicles are scheduled for annual, semi-annual, or quarterly inspections based on vehicle age, though officials didn't specify the exact age thresholds for each inspection frequency. Decorative or advertising decals and complete window wrapping are prohibited on regulated vehicles.
Renewal Process Begins 60 Days Early
License renewal forms are mailed to operators at least 60 days before expiration, giving taxi operators time to complete the renewal process before their January 31 deadline. Vehicles that fail safety inspections can't operate until deficiencies are corrected and they pass re-inspection, officials said. The county didn't provide information about typical renewal rates or how many operators fail to renew annually.
Riders Can Track Taxi Availability
Taxi operators must ensure their vehicles meet all inspection requirements before picking up passengers who've arranged pre-arranged or street hail service. The county's regulations require taxis to transport no more than eight passengers and be equipped with a taximeter, with passengers deciding the route and destination. Moovit provides real-time updates for Miami-Dade transit options, helping riders plan trips across the county's transportation network.
