§ 84.1-8-4. Vehicle inspections.

(a)

During the initial and each subsequent taxicab inspection, the Taxicab Inspector will inspect and evaluate the taxicab for compliance with Chapter requirements, including: taximeter operation and accuracy; state registration, licensing and safety inspection requirements; vehicle age and mileage; tires; windows and windshield wipers; exterior and interior lights; speedometer and odometer operation; safety equipment including seat belts, mirrors, and horn; exterior lettering and other taxicab markings; the condition of the vehicle's interior and exterior; and the display of materials provided by the Department, including the rate card, complaint notice, and taxicab driver's license.

(b)

Prior to the first use and operation of any vehicle under the provisions of this Chapter, the vehicle will be inspected by the Taxicab Inspector as provided in Section 84.1-8-4(a). If the Taxicab Inspector determines that the vehicle complies with applicable regulations, a taxicab certificate setting forth such approval and stating the authorized seating capacity of the vehicle will be issued by the Director to the certificate holder.

(c)

Every certificate holder will permit all reasonable inspections by the Taxicab Inspector of taxicabs licensed to operate under this Chapter and will cause each of its taxicabs to be inspected on a periodic basis by the Taxicab Inspector. Taxicabs with a vehicle age of six or fewer model years will be inspected by the Taxicab Inspector annually, with the inspection to occur six months from the month shown on the Virginia Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection decal affixed to the vehicle. Taxicabs with a vehicle age of seven or more model years will be inspected on a semi-annual basis by the Taxicab Inspector at intervals of no longer than six months.

(d)

If the Taxicab Inspector finds any taxicab unsafe for the transportation of passengers, or in an unsanitary condition warranting removal from service, or its taximeter is not registering accurately, then notice will be given to the taxicab driver and certificate holder and it will be unlawful to operate the taxicab until the deficiencies have been corrected and the taxicab has been re-inspected and approved for service.

(e)

The individual numbered taxicab certificate, the current manifest, and the taxicab driver's license must be presented to any Taxicab Inspector or duly sworn law enforcement officer upon request.

(4-00-84.1; 56-08-84.1; 39-16-84.1.)

(4-00-84.1; 56-08-84.1; 39-16-84.1.)