Consumer Affairs

Re-Numbering of Seattle Taxicabs
Information Sheet No. 3

A Director Rule issued on January 1, 1997 states that, "The Director shall assign a number to each taxicab that is the same as the number of the metal taxicab license plate issued by the Director."

[R-6.310.200.A(6)]

All numbers must be applied to the exterior of Seattle taxicabs following the procedures outlined in the same Rule. The 3-digit numbers must be of a contrasting color and four (4) inches in height with width proportional. The Director has designated alternative locations if the vehicle design does not permit placement of the taxicab number on the left and right rear roof posts. On sedans, the taxicab number may be placed on both rear quarter panels but not forward of the rear roof posts. On station wagons and vans, the taxicab numbers may be placed immediately beneath both rearmost side windows.

New Seattle taxicab license plates will be issued to approximately 12 vehicles to prevent duplication of taxicab numbers within a taxicab association. If a taxicab subsequently affiliates with a different taxicab association a new taxicab license plate may have to be issued.

The re-numbering of Seattle taxicabs will make certain that every vehicle has a unique number. This will reduce passenger confusion when complaints are submitted.

The re-numbering is to be completed at change of equipment (replacement of vehicle) or by January 1, 1999- whichever occurs first. This allows owners to re-number when the vehicle documents change (vehicle registration, for-hire certificate, insurance).