(1)

(a) On and after January 1, 2019, a person shall not operate or offer to operate a large-market taxicab service in intrastate commerce without first having obtained a permit to operate large-market taxicab service from the commission in accordance with this part 7.

(b) A person may apply for a permit in a form and manner prescribed by the commission.

(c) A permit issued pursuant to this section is valid for one year after the date of issuance.

(2) Except as provided in section 40-10.1-704, the commission shall issue a permit to a motor carrier of passengers upon completion of the application filed pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the payment of a fee determined by the commission, compliance with the financial responsibility requirements established by rule by the commission pursuant to section 40-10.1-107, and submission of current rate information pursuant to section 40-10.1-705.

(3) In order to obtain a permit under this section, an applicantmust demonstrate that each vehicle operated under the permit has been inspected within the immediately preceding twelve months by a qualified mechanic in accordance with rules promulgated by the commission.

(4)

(a) Except as provided in subsection (4)(b) of this section, a motor carrier providing large-market taxicab service must have at least twenty-five vehicles in its fleet at all times.

(b) In El Paso, Larimer, and Weld counties, a motor carrier providing large-market taxicab service must have at least ten vehicles in its fleet at all times.

(5) For each county served by a motor carrier providing large-market taxicab service pursuant to this part 7, the commission shall by rule determine the maximum rate that a motor carrier providing large-market taxicab service may charge its passengers.