Ridesharing Services now in Albany

As of June 29, 2017, ridesharing is officially in Albany!

The start of ride sharing in Upstate NY means the state joins 39 others in offering the services statewide. From ridesharingny: Downtown economies will be brighter than ever; hardworking New Yorkers will be able to earn extra income; and we have even more options to get home safely. Drivers will have access to a first-of-its-kind workers compensation fund, and a per-ride contribution to New York State means our roads and bridges will get new, needed funding.

Regulations include:

For passengers:

The new regulations require that the fare or estimated fare be provided on the ride sharing app to the customer before the ride begins. The app must display:

• A photo of the driver;
• Make, model and color of the vehicle; and
• The vehicle’s license plate number.

For drivers:

Drivers must pass a criminal background check before they can transport passengers, which includes a review of their driving record. Ride share companies must enroll drivers in DMV’s License Event Notification System, which tracks and reports traffic ticket convictions, suspensions, revocations, reinstatements and other events. Anyone wishing to become employed in this industry must contact the ride sharing companies. Drivers must have a valid license issued by DMV and be at least 19 years old. DMV does not have specific vehicle requirements, but the ride sharing companies may set standards.

Image from The Buffalo News.