Lyft Expands Licensed Taxi Access in New York City Through Curb Partnership

Lyft has expanded its collaboration with Curb, a leading ride-hailing platform for licensed taxis, by launching the partnership in New York City, the largest taxi market in the United States. Starting July 16, riders using the Lyft app can now be matched with licensed taxis through Curb Flow, Curb’s open API designed to aggregate ride demand while maintaining the familiar Lyft booking experience.

The rollout in New York City follows earlier launches in Los Angeles and San Francisco. This expansion marks the first time Lyft users in New York City can access licensed taxis directly through the Lyft application, broadening transportation options without requiring riders to download or switch to another platform.

How the Expanded Taxi Integration Works

Passengers requesting a Standard, Priority Pickup, or Wait & Save ride through the Lyft app may now be connected with a nearby licensed taxi whenever one is available. The booking process remains consistent with the standard Lyft experience, including upfront fare estimates, driver and vehicle information, digital payments, and the ability to provide tips and ratings after the trip.

Key Features Available During Taxi Rides

• Licensed taxis can be dispatched through the Lyft app.
• Upfront pricing is displayed before booking.
• Driver and vehicle information remains available.
• Passengers can tip and rate drivers within the app.
• Ride matching is enabled through Curb Flow's open API.

Safety Features Remain Integrated

Lyft confirmed that its existing rider safety tools continue to be available when trips are completed in licensed taxis. These features include real-time trip location sharing, in-app messaging, Smart Trip Check-In, and emergency assistance. By extending these capabilities to taxi rides, the partnership aims to provide a consistent user experience while giving riders access to one of the largest licensed taxi networks in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Lyft's New York City partnership with Curb offer riders?
Lyft riders in New York City can now be matched with licensed taxis through Curb Flow while using the Lyft app they already know. Eligible ride requests, including Standard, Priority Pickup, and Wait & Save, may be fulfilled by nearby licensed taxis. Riders continue to receive upfront pricing, driver and vehicle information, digital payment, tipping, ratings, and Lyft's in-app safety features, creating a seamless booking experience across both traditional ride-hailing vehicles and licensed taxis.