Q1L |
What kind of vehicles qualify as a limousine under PTC rules? |
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A1L |
There are several sub-categories of limousines under the PTC rules. There are stretched limousines, sedans, SUVs and limo buses. All are expected to be able to provide a luxury service. Sedans are to be ones identified by the automobile industry as a luxury vehicle. SUVs are to be the top-of-the line model manufactured by the respective manufacturer. Stretched models must be certified as meeting Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. It is recommended that you contact the Office of the PTC prior to purchasing a vehicle to ensure that it falls within the definition of limousine under the PTC rules. |
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Q2L |
Are all types of limousines required to be pre-arranged? |
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A2L |
Yes, unless the particular service has entered into a contract with someone to sit available for walk-up customers, such as at a hotel. Limousine service providers are prohibited, by rule, from soliciting customers for walk-up service otherwise. |
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Q3L |
Can I license a van as a limousine? |
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A3L |
Generally not. 10-15 passenger vans fall under the van service category. |
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Q4L |
How many people can a stretch limousine carry? |
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A4L |
This depends upon what type of stretch vehicle you have hired. Some carry more than others. Some may be considered a 10 passenger limousine but may not comfortably hold that many. Companies are only allowed to carry the amount of passengers that the vehicle is certified to carry. If the weight limit is exceeded, then that number may be reduced. |
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Q5L |
How do I know if a company is licensed to operate in Hillsborough County? |
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A5L |
The companies generally put their PTC Certificate number in their yellow page ads but, you can call the Office of the PTC at (813)272-5814 for verification. |
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Q6L |
If the PTC regulates my vehicle and it transports over 15 passengers,do I need to register the vehicle with the Florida Department of Transportation? |
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A6L |
In general, being regulated by the PTC does not exempt one from FDOT requirements. The same is true in reverse. If one has a vehicle registered with FDOT, it does not necessarily exempt the vehicle from PTC licensing requirements. Contact the Office of the PTC to be sure. |
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Q7L |
If I rarely operate in Hillsborough County and only have to make one or two pickups a year at the airport or cruise terminal, can I get authorization to do so without obtaining a license? |
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A7L |
The enabling legislation for the PTC makes no provision for exceptions to the licensing requirements, even if for one pick up. The staff of the PTC has no authority to make an exception. |
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Q8L |
If I am licensed by the PTC, do I need a separate license from Tampa International Airport? |
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A8L |
At this time, Tampa International Airport recognizes the licensing by the PTC and requires no registration or separate licensing for limousines. They do, however, have a requirement for those operating van services. Contact TIA Ground Transportation at (813) 870-8712. |
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Q9L |
If I am licensed by the PTC, do I need a separate license from the Tampa Port Authority to pick up at the cruise terminal? |
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A9L |
The Port Authority does have a separate licensing requirement for commercial for hire vehicles. You need to contact them for information at (813)905-7678. |
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Q10L |
If my vehicle is licensed at another location in the state such as Orlando or Cape Canaveral, am I allowed to pick up paying customers in Hillsborough County without a PTC license? |
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A10L |
At this time, no. The licensing by one agency does not provide authorization in the jurisdictional area of another except in areas that may have established a reciprocal agreement. Hillsborough County has none at this time. |
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Q11L |
Are there any limitations as to how much a limousine can charge? |
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A11L |
The PTC does not establish any upper limitations regarding limousine rates but, it does state in its rules that a limousine sedan/SUV must charge at least $40 per hour and a stretch limousine must charge at least $50 per hour. The intent of this rule is to prevent a limousine operator from attempting to operate in the taxicab market and/or to create cut-throat rates that undermine the remaining limousine industry members. |
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Q12L |
Are there any dress requirements for limousine operators? |
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A12L |
The rules require that they be "appropriately" dressed and that they wear a tie. Of course, along with this they must wear a collared shirt, closed toed shoes, socks and trousers. |
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