Miami-Dade County approves taxi cab technology upgrades

Drivers would have two years to adopt new upgrades

MIAMI – Credit card machines and SunPass responders have been around for a while, but soon we will be seeing these devices inside Miami-Dade County taxi cabs.

County commissioners voted Tuesday on legislation requiring all taxi cabs to accept credit cards, install SunPass transponders, GPS devices and backseat security cameras.

Commissioners voted 10-1 for the upgrade changes.

Taxi drivers would have two years to adopt the credit card machines and SunPass transponders will be required within six months.

"We're trying to bring our taxis into 21s century," Commissioner Diaz said. "This is going to create a better experience for everyone."

The so called "ambassador cabs" that operate at the Miami International Airport and PortMiami will have to meet higher standards, including a dress code standard. Their vehicles must also display a special decal issued by the County.

Taxi drivers that fail to comply with the requirements could face the suspension or revocation of their driver's registration, depending on the number and type of violations.