Aaron Cushman unveils digital licensing system for taxi drivers in new TLC initiative

A groundbreaking shift in Nashville's transportation licensing process is on the horizon, as the city prepares to transition to a fully digital system. During the Transportation Licensing Commission meeting on July 17, 2025, IT Manager Aaron Cushman unveiled plans to modernize the application process for taxi drivers and companies, moving away from cumbersome manual paperwork to a streamlined online platform.

Cushman emphasized that the new system will enhance security and efficiency, stating, "Everything will be done online, everything will be encrypted." This means sensitive information, such as social security numbers and driver's license details, will be protected, with only the original applicants able to view their data. The initiative aims to simplify the application process, allowing taxi drivers to upload necessary documents and receive real-time feedback on their submissions.

The rollout will begin with the taxi industry, with training sessions planned for taxi companies and kiosks set up at the TLC office to assist drivers. Cushman noted that the system will also support multiple languages through built-in translation features, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants.

The anticipated launch for the taxi licensing segment is set for early October, with plans to expand the digital system to all licensing processes thereafter. This modernization effort is expected to significantly reduce the administrative burden on staff and improve overall service delivery.

As Nashville embraces this technological advancement, the Transportation Licensing Commission is poised to enhance its operational efficiency and better serve the community.