For each violation, like reckless driving or dangerous conduct, a driver accumulates points on his record. A certain number of points will trigger a license suspension or revocation. So, in Boston, the fine for overcharging is double the amount of the fare. Overcharge as many times as you want and you can still drive a cab in Boston. New York has also made it more difficult to get a taxi license.
Authorities closely scrutinize an applicant's driving history.
Bad driving counts. Strict and tough are not words that describe the Boston Police Hackney Carriage Unit. Its officers are far more likely to issue a warning than a suspension. The unit revoked only one taxi license in that period, belonging to a driver charged with sexual assault. But the head of the Hackney Unit says he is willing to consider a point system that would trigger stiffer penalties for repeat offenders.